Safari by Ralph Lauren c1989

Safari by Ralph Lauren, first launched in 1989 in association with Cosmair, Inc.(division of L'Oreal), was inspired by the exotic African safari.

Gourielli

Established in 1941 by Helena Rubinstein who was married to Artchil Gourielli-Tchkonia, a Russian prince from Georgia . Princess Gourielli (Helena Rubinstein) opened the Gourielli Shop, an old fashioned brownstone front on E. 55th Street, Manhattan, that she turned into a fabulous cosmetic emporium selling old apothecary recipes combined with new scientific formulas.  The shop combined several different decorative themes which combined Old Apothecary, Early American, Victorian American, Modern and Mexican.

Parfumerie Lina Cavalieri

After retiring from the stage, opera star Natalina "Lina" Cavalieri ran a cosmetic salon in Paris.

Like other beauties of the stage, Lina had endorsed other brands in the early 1900s. Palmolive and Gelle Freres were two of the most well known companies that she used her celebrity status for their advantage.

Ellen Betrix

Ellen Betrix was first established  as a German cosmetics brand founded in 1935 in Dreieich-Sprendlingen (Pfalz), best known for their lipsticks, nail polish and other makeup products exported worldwide.

Princess Pat Cosmetics & Perfumes

Princess Pat LTD, established in 1921 by Patricia FB Gordon,who was the president of the company,  later traded under the names "Gordon & Gordon" and finally  "House of Gordon'".

Nelson, Baker & Co.

Nelson Baker & Co. of 61 Brooklyn Avenue, Detroit, Michigan. Subsidiary of Penslar Stores.

Jean Stuart Cosmetics, Inc.

Jean Stuart Cosmetics Inc. of 535 Fifth Ave, New York, established in 1928. Launched a range of cosmetics, toiletries, and fragrances starting in 1929.

Parfumerie Diaphane

Parfumerie Diaphane, established in 1881 by Mr. A. Reverchon, carved a niche for itself in the world of cosmetics and fragrance, starting with a breakthrough product he had developed earlier. In 1879, Reverchon introduced La Diaphane, a sheer face powder that captivated consumers and quickly gained popularity. Inspired by the success of this product, he named his company after it, marking the beginning of a legacy that would span decades. The establishment was located at 48 Avenue Parmentier in Paris, a site that would become significant in the realms of beauty and perfumery.

Parfumerie Diaphane became a prominent name in the cosmetics industry, renowned for its sheer face powder, Poudre Diaphane. The powder was notably endorsed by the illustrious actress Sarah Bernhardt, whose endorsement lent the product an air of sophistication and glamour. As the company expanded, it gained international recognition, exporting nearly two-thirds of its products throughout Europe and as far afield as Indo-China, Japan, the Caribbean, and the Pacific coast. This extensive reach highlighted the brand's commitment to quality and innovation, allowing it to establish a solid foothold in diverse markets.

Lucille Young Cosmetics

There was a very famous Lucille Young, she was a silent film star from Lyons, France. 1892-August 2, 1934. Whether this Lucille is the same as the one who created the cosmetics company or not, I have no idea.

All products found date circa 1900-1930s, products included: wrinkle treatment, skin cleanser, skin whitener, masque, wrinkle masque, hand beautiful treatment., wrinkle massage, bust massage, figure massage, tissue cream, mascara, nail enamel and possibly more.

From a 1920 Photoplay Magazine advertisement:

“Banish Coarse Pores! My methods have brought beauty to thousands. Let me rid you of coarse pores, wrinkles, blackheads, pimples, freckles and superfluous hair. This portrait is my proof of that my beauty methods accomplish. My heart goes out to every girl and woman who has an ambition to be admired. You owe it to yourself to be attractive, admired and courted and I am proud that it is my privilege to help you. 

I want you to know the methods used by famous actresses, society leaders and movie stars, mail the coupon below. I will send you free, my new work ”Stepping Stones To Beauty”, containing full and complete information of my methods and how to use them, in the privacy of your own home, and with the same wonderful results of which thousands of others have had. This knowledge has cost me years of patient, faithful and scientific research. Send no money, write your name and address plainly and you will receive at once, complete information on the following beauty methods:

• To Banish/Refine Coarse Pores
• To Banish Wrinkles
• To Banish Blackheads, Pimples, Tan, Freckles and Oily Skin
• To Beautify the Figure, Hands and Arms.
• To Remove Superfluous Hair
• To Grow Beautiful Eyebrows and Eyelashes
• To Clear the Skin of Acne
• For Beautiful Hair 

Lucille Young, Room 107-1010, Lucille Young Building, Chicago, Ill."

Below are two photos of Lucille Young (the actress, photos from Washington University)

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Marcelle Perfumes & Cosmetics

Marcelle was a line from the CW Beggs & Sons Company from Illinois. The Marcelle line included perfumes, toiletries, hair products and cosmetics in the 1920s-1930s.

Some of the perfumes in the Marcelle line included:

• 1923 Lilac Vegetale Hair Lotion
• 1932 Rose
• 1932 Narcissus
• 1832 Oriental
• 1932 Lilac
• Damascus

There isn't much to be found on this company. I did happen to find a legal document with the following:

"C. W. Beggs Sons & Co., an Illinois corporation with place of business at Chicago, 111., also operated under the trade names Marcelle Cosmetics and Marcelle Hypo-Allergenic Cosmetics, engaged in the sale and distribution of a line of cosmetics under the trade or brand designation "Marcelle" in interstate commerce, in competition with corporations, firms, and individuals likewise engaged, entered into the following agreement to cease and desist from the alleged unfair methods of competition in commerce as set forth therein. C. W. Beggs Sons & Co., whether trading under its own name, as Marcelle Cosmetics, Marcelle Hypo-Allergenic Cosmetics, or by any other designation or style, in connection with the sale and distribution of its commodities in commerce as defined by the Federal Trade Com-mission Act, or the advertising thereof by the means or in the manner above set forth, agreed that it will forthwise cease and desist from representing : That thousands of doctors have prescribed Marcelle Hypo-Allergenic Cosmetics, or that any numbers in excess of the true total thereof have so approved or recommended the same. C. W. Beggs Sons & Co. also agreed that should it ever resume or indulge in any of the aforesaid methods, acts, or practices which It has herein agreed to discontinue, or in the event the Commission should issue its complaint and institute formal proceedings against the respondent as provided herein, this stipulation as to the facts and agreement to cease and desist, if relevant, may be received in such proceedings as evidence of the prior use by the respondent of the methods." .

Rodin & Merle Norman Perfumes

Rodin Paris was established in 1946 by Merle Norman (S.A.R.L.), with its flagship location at 9 rue Auber in Paris. This luxury perfume house was founded by J.B. Nethercutt and his aunt, Merle Nethercutt Norman, who were also the visionaries behind Merle Norman Cosmetics. Together, they set out to capture the elegance and allure of French perfumery through the Rodin Paris brand, blending their family’s commitment to quality with the sophistication associated with Parisian fragrance culture.

Merle Norman, a renowned figure in the beauty industry, brought her extensive experience and dedication to beauty products to the forefront of the brand. J.B. Nethercutt, equally passionate about the world of beauty and luxury, contributed his business acumen and creative vision, helping to shape Rodin Paris into a refined fragrance house. Located in the heart of Paris, the brand’s base at rue Auber was ideally situated amidst the bustling perfume and fashion districts, making it a fitting home for Rodin Paris as it catered to an international clientele drawn to the sophistication of French perfumes. Through this collaboration, Merle Norman and J.B. Nethercutt not only expanded their family business into the realm of fine fragrances but also left an indelible mark on the post-war fragrance industry by embracing the artistry and tradition of French perfumery.

Solon Palmer Perfumes

Solon Palmer: A Legacy in Fragrance and Toiletries

Solon Palmer, an influential figure in the world of perfumery and toiletries, established his company in 1847 in Cincinnati, Ohio. As a perfumer and chemist, Palmer's venture quickly became known for its high-quality products. His early offerings included Palmer's Invisible, a ladies’ face powder, and a selection of handkerchief extracts and toilet soaps. These initial products set the stage for Palmer’s subsequent success, helping to build a strong foundation for his business.

In 1870, Palmer expanded his operations by opening a branch in New York City at 12 Platt Street. This move was a strategic step to tap into the vibrant and growing market of New York. Shortly after, he relocated the branch to 372, 374, and 376 Pearl Street, reflecting the company's growth and increasing prominence. Palmer's presence in New York enabled him to reach a broader audience and enhance the brand's reputation on a larger scale.

By 1892, the company was under the leadership of Solon Palmer's son, Eddy Palmer. Eddy’s management marked a new phase for the business, continuing its growth and innovation. Eventually, the company came under the stewardship of Solon M. Palmer, ensuring that the family's legacy in the perfumery and toiletry industry continued. The Palmer family maintained the business until 1947, a testament to their enduring influence and the company’s resilience through changing times.

Throughout its history, Solon Palmer’s company expanded its product range significantly. From its early focus on face powders, handkerchief extracts, and soaps, the line broadened to include powders, sachet powders, rouges, lotions, cold creams, tissue creams, perfumes, brilliantine, and lipsticks. This diversification reflected the company’s adaptability and its ability to cater to evolving consumer needs and preferences.

The design of Palmer's perfume bottles also evolved over time. Early cologne bottles were distinguished by their beautiful deep emerald green or rich teal hues and typically featured a lay-down style. These bottles were not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the product’s appeal. As the years progressed, the design shifted to clear or light aqua glass bottles with cylindrical or hourglass shapes. These later bottles represented a more modern approach while maintaining the elegance associated with the Palmer brand.

Melba Perfumes

Melba Manufacturing Company. Established by Frances W. Jones at 4237 Indiana Ave, Chicago in 1908; bought out by Vivaudou/Vadsco Sales in 1926.

Melba produced toiletries including perfume, toilet waters, powders, nail products, deodorant, rouge, lipsticks, face cream, face massage cream, skin creams, skin lotion, tissue cream, hand cream, talcum, skin cleanser and men's shaving products. By 1942, Melba was no longer in business.

Mary Quant Perfumes

In 1967, clothing designer Mary Quant presented her line of perfumes for women.

Harriet Hubbard Ayer

Established by Harriet Hubbard at East 34th Street, New York in 1886; born in 1850 in Chicago; renowned for her HHA label which she created in 1886, launched her first perfume in 1922; also produced toiletries and cosmetics. She also sold perfumes under the pseudonym of Lillian Dodge in 1922.

Zutz Cosmetics Company

The Zutz Cosmetics Company was started by Henry E. and Julia Zutz in St. Paul, Minnesota, in 1923. They made by hand, a variety of women's perfumes and cosmetics in small batches for specialty shops of their time.

Henry was trained as a pharmacist and worked in that field for years before starting his own cosmetics company.

They ceased production completely by 1946.

Tanty Perfumes

Tanty Parfumeurs was located in Corning, New York and had an office in Paris; they were the successors to Corning Tappan and launched a range of fragrances around 1900, they were still in business in 1922. They produced toilet waters, extracts, sachets, cosmetics, toiletries and face powders. McCreery's, Gimbel's and Joseph Horne Co's stores sold their products.

Venetian Ceruse

Today women are scrambling for products that promote skin whitening, to remove blemishes, scars and unevenness of the skin tone. Much of the skin flaws are caused by acne, accidental scars, and too much sun exposure. Few know that this cosmetic was in use for centuries by many types of people, especially the wealthy.

Mais Oui by Bourjois c1938

Mais Oui by Bourjois: launched in 1939. Mais Oui, pronounced MA-WEE, which means “certainly," or “but yes!" in French.

Aubry Sisters Toiletries & Cosmetics

The Aubry Sisters were an exclusive song-and-dance team from  big comic opera company who started appearing on stage around 1904. They usually worked the vaudeville circuit well into the late 1920s and their most famous act was "The Doll Dance."

 Their cosmetic company was established in Toledo, Ohio around 1910, the Aubry Sisters company sold cosmetics and toiletries, they apparently were a short lived company, closing around 1925.
Their main office appears to be 153 West 23rd  Street in New York City.

Their cosmetics were sold at department stores and often had demonstrators.

Some of their cosmetics and toiletry products:

• Liquid rouge
• Dry rouge
• Greaseless cream
• Beautifier face powder
• Facial massage cream
• Hair tonic
• Tooth powder
• Cold cream
• Depilatory powder
• Witch hazel
• Beautifier soap

advertisement from 1910

c1912 ad

photos of the Aubrey Sisters brochure by ebay seller mike-force