La Fuite des Heures/Fleeting Moment by Balenciaga c1947

"La Fuite des Heures" or "Fleeting Moment" by Balenciaga is a classic fragrance that was launched in 1947. It's renowned for its elegant and timeless scent, capturing the essence of fleeting moments with its sophisticated blend of notes. Germaine Cellier, a prominent perfumer known for her bold and innovative creations, was the mastermind behind this iconic fragrance. By 1949, it had made its way to the USA, further solidifying its status as a beloved scent worldwide.

Dahlia by Arlene Dahl c1976

Dahlia by Arlene Dahl (Parfums Dahlia): launched in 1976. Created by Bud Lindsay of Roure Bertrand Dupont.

Diorling by Christian Dior c1963

Diorling by Christian Dior: created by Paul Vacher and launched in 1963. The name Diorling was a play on Darling. Christian Dior adored all things British and this was his take on how the upper classes pronounced Darling.

Tendre Poison by Christian Dior c1994

Tendre Poison was created by Edouard Flechier in 1994. The bottle design is the work of Veronique Monod.

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.

Midnight Poison by Christian Dior c2007

Midnight Poison by Christian Dior: created by Jacques Cavallier and Olivier Cresp of Firmenich in collaboration with Francois Demachy of LVMH in 2007.

L'Origan by Coty c1905

L'Origan by Coty was launched in 1905, a time when the world was on the cusp of modernity but still deeply rooted in the traditions and sensibilities of the 19th century. This era, often referred to as the Belle Époque in France, was characterized by cultural flourishing, artistic innovation, and a sense of optimism before the upheaval of World War I. The name "L'Origan," meaning "marjoram" in French, evokes the quintessential landscape of Provence, a region in southeastern France known for its idyllic countryside. The early 20th-century Provençal fields would have been vibrant with the colors and fragrances of blossoming flowers and aromatic herbs, painting a picture of serene natural beauty and pastoral charm.

The fields of Provence were, and still are, famous for their lush, fragrant flowers. Lavender, with its deep purple hues, was particularly iconic, alongside sunflowers, poppies, and roses. These flowers not only provided a visual feast but also filled the air with their sweet and intoxicating scents. Provence was also renowned for its herbs, including thyme, rosemary, sage, and, of course, marjoram. These herbs were not just culinary staples but integral to the region's olfactory identity, contributing to the complex, herbaceous aromas that perfumed the air.

Dioressence by Christian Dior c1979

Dioressence by Christian Dior: created by Guy Robert and launched in 1969.

Dioressence was first available as a bath oil concentrate, to help condition and perfume the skin. In the same year, it was also available as body lotion, cologne spray concentre and eau parfumee spray (an eau de parfum), followed by friction lotion, foaming milk bath and hand soap. These items were sold from 1969 til 1975.

From 1979 onward, the fragrance was available in parfum, eau de toilette, body lotion, dusting powder, hand soap, talc, body cream, bath gel, solid perfume,

In 1982, the Dioressence Esprit de Parfum was introduced.

Tuvara by Tuvache c1948

Tuvara by Tuvache: launched in 1948. The name Tuvara was trademarked in 1965 by Tuvache. The name Tuvara comes from a species of the cassia plant and was also the name of Mme. Tuvache's daughter.

Padisha by Weil c1922

Padisha by Weil: launched in 1922, as a gift to special clients. It was later relaunched  for public sale in 1947.

Embrujo de Sevilla by Myrurgia c1933

"Embrujo de Sevilla," launched in 1933 by Myrurgia, emerged during the Great Depression, a period marked by economic hardship and a yearning for escapism. The early 1930s were characterized by global financial instability, widespread unemployment, and social unrest. During these challenging times, luxuries like perfume offered a form of affordable indulgence and a way to momentarily transcend the daily struggles. The allure of Seville, a city steeped in rich history and romance, provided the perfect backdrop for such a product, promising a sensory escape to a more exotic and enchanting world.

Seville, the capital of Andalusia in southern Spain, is renowned for its vibrant cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lush gardens. The city's history is a tapestry woven with influences from various civilizations, including the Romans, Moors, and Christians. Landmarks like the majestic Seville Cathedral, the Giralda tower, and the Alcázar palace with its beautiful Mudejar architecture, are emblematic of Seville's storied past. The city is also famous for its passionate flamenco music and dance, vibrant festivals like Feria de Abril, and the intoxicating aroma of orange blossoms from its many gardens.

Films of the era, such as "Blood and Sand" (1922) and its remake in 1941, showcased the romantic and exotic allure of Spain, with themes of passionate love, bullfighting, and the picturesque Spanish landscapes. These films played into the public's fascination with romanticized views of Spanish culture, making the setting of Seville an appealing and evocative choice for a perfume.

Myrurgia's choice of the name "Embrujo de Sevilla," which translates to "The Spell of Seville" in Spanish, cleverly captures the essence of this captivating city. The word "embrujo" conveys enchantment, magic, and allure, evoking a sense of mystery and seduction. This makes "Embrujo de Sevilla" an excellent name for a perfume, as it promises an enchanting and transformative experience for the wearer.

Dune by Christian Dior c1991

Dune by Christian Dior: created by Jean-Louis Sieuzac, Dominique Ropion and Nejla Bsiri-Barbir under the guidance of Maurice Roger and was launched in 1991 (in USA in 1992).

Jungle Gardenia by Tuvache c1932

Jungle Gardénia (Original) by Tuvache was launched in 1932, relaunched in 1957.

Fame by Corday c1946

In the post-war era of the mid-1940s, launching a perfume like "Fame" by Corday would have evoked a poignant mix of sensuality, romance, and intimacy amidst a backdrop of recovery and rebuilding. The end of World War II marked a period of rejuvenation and optimism, where people sought to embrace joy and pleasure after years of hardship and sacrifice. The name "Fame" itself carries connotations of glamour, allure, and the allure of the spotlight.

During this time, Hollywood was at its peak, with stars like Ingrid Bergman, Rita Hayworth, and Humphrey Bogart captivating audiences worldwide. Actresses and actors were not just entertainers but symbols of style and sophistication, embodying a sense of elegance and allure. The stage and radio also played significant roles in shaping cultural norms and defining societal expectations of beauty and allure.

Choosing the name "Fame" for a perfume would have been highly appropriate in this context. It speaks to the desire for recognition, admiration, and the aspiration to be remembered or celebrated. Blanche Arvoy, the creator, likely chose this name to evoke the essence of celebrity and allure, aiming to empower women with a fragrance that encapsulates glamour and sophistication.

Orgia by Myrurgia c1922

In 1922, when Myrurgia launched their perfume "Orgia," Spain was experiencing a vibrant cultural period known as the "Silver Age." This era was characterized by a blossoming of arts, literature, and cinema, marked by a fascination with sensuality, passion, and romanticism. Films of the time often explored themes of love, desire, and the allure of the exotic, resonating with the flamboyant and expressive nature of the period.

The choice of the name "Orgia" by Myrurgia seems deliberate and reflective of the cultural milieu. In Spanish, "Orgia," pronounced "or-hee-ah," traditionally refers to a lavish celebration or revelry, often associated with excess and indulgence. However, its connotation can also suggest a profusion of beauty and sensory delights, aligning perfectly with the perfume's purported essence of "many flowers, many lights, many loves."

For women of the 1920s, a perfume named "Orgia" would likely evoke images of passion, romance, and an exotic allure. In a time when societal norms were loosening and women were increasingly asserting their independence, a fragrance promising such extravagance and allure would likely resonate deeply.

Cialenga by Balenciaga c1973

Cialenga by Balenciaga: launched in 1973 and created by perfumer Jacques Jantzen.

Éscarmouche by Jean Desprez c1949

In 1949, the launch of the perfume "Éscarmouche" by Jean Desprez occurred in a period marked by the aftermath of World War II and the beginnings of the Cold War. Europe was in the process of rebuilding, and there was a palpable sense of cultural and societal shifts. France, in particular, was experiencing a resurgence in art, fashion, and literature, with Paris reasserting its role as a global center of creativity and luxury.

Jean Desprez, a perfumer known for his avant-garde approach and bold compositions, chose the name "Éscarmouche" for his new fragrance. The word "Éscarmouche" originates from French and refers to a skirmish or a minor battle, typically of a verbal or physical nature. It connotes a sense of spirited conflict or engagement, often in a playful or romantic context.

The choice of "Éscarmouche" as a perfume name could be interpreted in several ways. Firstly, it suggests a perfume that evokes a sense of adventure, intrigue, and perhaps even flirtation. The name itself is exotic and evocative, appealing to individuals who seek something beyond the ordinary in their fragrance choices.

Those who related to a perfume named "Éscarmouche" might be drawn to its promise of excitement and drama. It could resonate with individuals who see perfume not just as a scent, but as a statement or an accessory to their personal narrative. The response to such a perfume would likely be one of curiosity and a desire to experience its olfactory journey, expecting it to match the boldness and allure implied by its name.

Suspiro de Granada by Myrurgia c1922

In 1922, the year "Suspiro de Granada" was launched by Myrurgia, Spain was immersed in a fascinating period of cultural revival known as the "Silver Age," characterized by a resurgence of arts and literature. Granada, a city steeped in rich history, was at the heart of this romantic era. Known for its magnificent Alhambra palace, Granada symbolized the pinnacle of Moorish architecture in Spain. The city's gardens, such as those in the Generalife, were famous for their lush flora, including jasmine and roses, which infused the air with delicate fragrances.

During this time, the allure of Granada inspired numerous artists, writers, and filmmakers. Works like Washington Irving's "Tales of the Alhambra" (1832) had already established Granada as a mythical, romantic destination in the Western imagination. Films and literature of the early 20th century continued to portray Granada as a place of passion, beauty, and nostalgia, echoing the essence captured in the name "Suspiro de Granada."

"Suspiro de Granada" translates to "Sigh of Granada" in English. The name evokes a sense of longing and yearning, encapsulating the melancholic yet enchanting atmosphere of Granada's landscapes and historical legacy. Myrurgia, in choosing this name for their perfume, aimed to evoke the emotions and imagery associated with Granada - a place where the past whispers through the scent of flowers and the echoes of history.

Etourdissant by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the year Etourdissant by Jean Desprez was launched, the world was on the brink of profound change. Europe was descending into the chaos of World War II, marking a tumultuous period of uncertainty and shifting societal norms. Despite the looming conflict, the world of fashion and fragrance continued to thrive as an escape and expression of luxury and elegance.

Jean Desprez's choice of the name "Etourdissant" for his perfume carries significant meaning. "Etourdissant" is a French word that translates to "dazzling" or "bewildering" in English. It derives from the verb "étourdir," which means "to dazzle" or "to stun." This choice of name reflects a desire to capture attention and evoke a sense of awe and wonder, qualities highly sought after in a perfume during this glamorous era.

In the context of 1939, "Etourdissant" would have been a bold and evocative name for a perfume. It speaks directly to the desire for opulence and allure amidst the uncertainty of the times. Those who related to a perfume called "Etourdissant" would likely be individuals seeking escape from the harsh realities of war, drawn to the promise of luxury and the transformative power of fragrance.

Nuits Indiennes by Jean-Louis Scherrer c1993

Nuits Indiennes by Jean-Louis Scherrer: launched in 1993. Created by perfumer Nathalie Feisthauer.

Art Nouveau shades of Gustav Klimt are seen in the advertising for the perfume.