Dolce Vita by Christian Dior c1994

Dolce Vita by Christian Dior: created by Pierre Bourdon and Maurice Roger and launched in 1994.

Intoxication by D'Orsay c1938

In 1938, the world was on the brink of World War II, with the lingering effects of the Great Depression still palpable. This was a period marked by a desire for escapism and glamour amidst uncertainties and hardships. The fashion and beauty industries often responded to such times by offering products that promised a temporary reprieve from reality, allowing people to indulge in fantasies and pleasures. "Intoxication" by Parfums D'Orsay was launched during this era, embodying this very spirit of escapism and allure. Notably, this was also a few years after the end of Prohibition in the United States, a time when society was embracing newfound freedoms and celebrating the return of legal alcohol consumption, which added to the zeitgeist of indulgence and revelry.

Parfums D'Orsay choosing the name "Intoxication" for their perfume speaks volumes about the emotional and sensory experience they aimed to evoke. The word "intoxication" suggests a state of being overwhelmed by powerful feelings or sensations, often associated with love and passion. In connection with love, "intoxication" conveys the idea of being so deeply enamored and consumed by another person that one feels a heady, almost dizzying sense of euphoria. This is an apt metaphor for a fragrance, which has the power to evoke strong emotional responses and create lasting impressions. In the context of the post-Prohibition era, the name also hints at a liberated, joyous embrace of pleasure and indulgence.

"Intoxication" is an appropriate name for a perfume because it encapsulates the transformative and alluring nature of fragrances. Perfume can create an almost magical effect, enhancing one's presence and evoking deep-seated emotions and memories. A scent that claims to intoxicate suggests that it can captivate and enthrall, much like the feeling of falling in love or being swept away by a powerful emotion. The end of Prohibition had seen a resurgence in nightlife and social gatherings, where people sought to enjoy themselves freely, and a perfume named "Intoxication" would perfectly complement this atmosphere of revelry.

In the context of perfumery, "Intoxication" relates to the concept of creating a compelling and irresistible fragrance. Perfumers aim to craft scents that can evoke strong, almost addictive responses. The name implies that the perfume has a potent and unforgettable quality, designed to leave a lasting impression on those who encounter it.

"Intoxication, the champagne fragrance that whispers 'Someone lovely has just passed by' wearing Intoxication".

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.

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.

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.

Hypnotic Poison by Christian Dior c1998

Hypnotic Poison by Christian Dior: launched in 1998. Created by Annick Menardo.

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).

Jin Abe by Jin Abe c1998

Jin Abe by Jin Abe: launched in 1998.

Le Parfum Ideal by Houbigant c1896

Le Parfum Ideal was created by Houbigant by in house perfumer, Paul Parquet in 1896, but it was launched for the first time at the 1900 Worlds Fair, along with another perfume Coeur de Jeanette.

The quintessential label for Le Parfum Ideal features a Gibson Girl sniffing a flower, this label was made of gilded foil and heavily embossed.

Cialenga by Balenciaga c1973

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

Courant by Helena Rubinstein c1972

Courant by Helena Rubinstein: launched in 1972. Created by Max Gavarry. Courant was reportedly formulated to change with a woman's body temperature.

Arpege by Lanvin c1927

Arpège by Lanvin, launched in 1927, is one of the house's most iconic perfumes, created by André Fraysse and Paul Vacher. Its name, "Arpège," is drawn from the musical term "arpeggio," a sequence of notes played in quick succession rather than simultaneously. This reference to music was a personal tribute from Jeanne Lanvin to her only daughter, Marie-Blanche, who was a talented pianist. The name "Arpège" originates from French, and it resonates with imagery of elegance, grace, and harmony—qualities that embody both music and the fragrance itself.

The word "Arpège" evokes a sense of movement and rhythm. In a musical context, an arpeggio is a fluid, ascending or descending cascade of notes, creating a sense of flow and beauty. Translating this into a scent, "Arpège" suggests a perfume that unfolds in layers, with notes that rise and intertwine, much like the notes of a musical composition. The fragrance would be interpreted as sophisticated, delicate, yet dynamic—a melody of floral and aldehydic notes that harmonize to form an intricate and balanced whole.

Women in the 1920s would have related to a perfume named "Arpège" as something sophisticated and refined, likely associating it with the elegance of the modern, artistic woman. The Roaring Twenties were marked by a period of social and cultural transformation, with women embracing new freedoms, from fashion to lifestyle. They were stepping into public life more prominently, and a fragrance like Arpège would have appealed to their desire for luxury and individuality. The name itself, with its musical connotations, would have attracted women who appreciated art and refinement, as music and culture were highly regarded during this period.

At the time of its launch, the perfume landscape was rich with innovation. Chanel No. 5, launched in 1921, had introduced aldehydic florals into the mainstream, setting a trend for modern, abstract fragrances. However, Arpège distinguished itself through its complex, highly layered structure, composed of over 60 natural ingredients. It was classified as a floral aldehyde, much like its contemporaries, but with a softer, more romantic floral heart, emphasizing jasmine, rose, and lily of the valley. The use of aldehydes added a sparkling brightness to the bouquet, making the scent feel modern yet timeless.

The era saw the rise of opulent, multi-faceted fragrances that mirrored the complexity of the evolving social landscape. While Arpège followed certain trends, such as the use of aldehydes and florals, it was unique for its depth and sophistication, reflecting Jeanne Lanvin’s dedication to craftsmanship and artistry. It was a fragrance that stood for luxury, grace, and emotional expression, much like the music its name was drawn from.

Teatro Alla Scala by Krizia c1985

Teatro Alla Scala by Krizia: launched in 1985. Created by Florbath Profumi. The Krizia lines were later sold to Sanofi.

Scandal by Lanvin c1931

Scandal by Lanvin, launched in 1931, emerged during a dynamic period in the perfume industry. This era saw the rise of bold, complex fragrances that reflected the changing social and cultural landscapes. The 1920s and early 1930s were marked by the aftermath of World War I, the rise of the Art Deco movement, and a burgeoning sense of modernity and freedom. Perfumes of this time, such as Chanel No. 5 (1921) and Guerlain's Shalimar (1925), often pushed the boundaries of traditional perfumery with innovative compositions and daring names.

Scandal, classified as a spicy, leather chypre fragrance, distinguished itself with its rich, mossy sandalwood base. While many fragrances of the time embraced floral and aldehydic notes, Scandal's bold combination of spice, leather, and chypre elements set it apart. The fragrance was both luxurious and provocative, capturing the spirit of an era that celebrated both opulence and rebellion. The inclusion of leather notes, in particular, added a daring, sensual edge that resonated with the increasingly liberated and adventurous women of the early 1930s.

The choice of the name "Scandal" by Parfums Lanvin was a masterstroke in marketing and branding. The word "scandal" itself, derived from the Latin "scandalum," meaning a cause of offense or stumbling block, immediately evokes notions of controversy, intrigue, and allure. In the context of a perfume, "Scandal" suggested a fragrance that was unapologetically bold and captivating, designed to turn heads and provoke strong reactions. The name implied a break from convention, an invitation to embrace one's inner audacity and charm.

Women in the 1930s, navigating a world that was increasingly modern and dynamic, would likely have been drawn to the daring promise of a perfume named Scandal. This was a time when women were becoming more independent, exploring new social freedoms, and challenging traditional norms. Scandal, with its rich, spicy, and leather notes, would have been perceived as a symbol of empowerment and sophistication. It offered an olfactory expression of confidence and allure, perfect for the modern woman who was unafraid to make a statement.

Cabriole by Elizabeth Arden c1977

Cabriole by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1977. The name stems from a ballet movement consisting of a leap and a turn.

Byzance by Rochas c1987

Byzance by Rochas was launched in 1987, a decade marked by bold fashion statements, opulence, and a nostalgic resurgence of historical and cultural motifs in design and art. This period saw the world recovering from the economic upheavals of the 1970s, with a renewed interest in luxury and excess that characterized the 1980s. In this context, Parfums Rochas chose the name "Byzance" for its perfume, a name that evokes the grandeur and mystique of the Byzantine Empire, known for its rich cultural heritage and luxurious artistry.

The French word "Byzance" translates to "Byzantium" in English, referring to the ancient city that later became Constantinople and is now Istanbul. By choosing this name, Rochas intended to evoke the opulence, sophistication, and exotic allure of the Byzantine Empire. The Byzantine mosaics of Ravenna, renowned for their intricate beauty and shimmering golden hues, served as a direct inspiration for the fragrance. These mosaics, with their depth and complexity, symbolize a world of luxury and grandeur, qualities that the perfume sought to encapsulate.

Byzantium and perfumery share a commonality in their dedication to craftsmanship, luxury, and sensory indulgence. Just as the Byzantine Empire was known for its detailed and lavish art, so too is the world of perfumery dedicated to the creation of intricate and sumptuous scents. The name "Byzance" is therefore appropriate for a perfume as it suggests an experience that is both rich and complex, inviting the wearer to indulge in a sensory journey reminiscent of the empire's splendor.

A woman who would have related to a fragrance called "Byzance" in 1987 is one who appreciates history, luxury, and artistry. She is likely sophisticated, confident, and drawn to the exotic and the opulent. This woman might see herself as a modern-day empress, commanding attention and admiration through her elegance and poise. The fragrance would resonate with her as a symbol of her own inner strength and beauty, much like the empresses of Byzantium.

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.

Ciao by Houbigant c1980

Ciao by Houbigant: launched in 1980. Created by Givaudan Perfumers.

My Sin by Lanvin c1924

The design house of Lanvin was among the first to present a perfume as part of a collection. My Sin was created in 1924 and first sold and trademarked in Paris under the name Mon Péché by Lanvin.

"A perfume of enchantment - of enthrallment...My Sin holds enticing charm for the delights which are to come. Smart women are always fond of My Sin's complimentary chic..."