Launched in 1935, Tropiques was one of the very first fragrances introduced by Armand Petitjean, the visionary founder of LancĂ´me. Petitjean was deeply inspired by the tropical splendor of Bahia, Brazil, a vibrant port city teeming with lush vegetation, intoxicating blossoms, and the warm embrace of sun-drenched shores. The name Tropiques, derived from the French language, is pronounced troh-peek and translates to "tropics" in English. It instantly evokes visions of lush rainforests, golden beaches, and sultry, humid nights, filled with the mysterious and heady scent of exotic flowers, ripe fruits, and warm, resinous woods.
The launch of Tropiques in 1935 coincided with a fascinating period in history. The interwar years, often referred to as the Art Deco era, were marked by glamour, escapism, and a fascination with faraway lands. The world was recovering from the Great Depression, and despite economic hardships, there was a thirst for luxury, adventure, and exoticism. International travel, though still reserved for the elite, had become a symbol of sophistication, and tropical destinations such as Cuba, Brazil, and the French colonies were romanticized in fashion, film, and literature.
In perfumery, oriental and floral compositions were thriving, with rich, opulent scents dominating the market. Women sought fragrances that were both sensual and transportive, and Tropiques—with its blend of heady florals, balsamic resins, and warm spices—perfectly captured this desire. Its spicy floral oriental character was an embodiment of the era’s daring femininity, reflecting the confident, modern woman who embraced both elegance and sensuality.
