PERFUME HACK - Removing Perfume Stains

Did you spill perfume or cologne on your favorite dress or did your cat knock over your best bottle of perfume onto the carpet? Here are some quick and easy tips to remove those stains!

From Fabrics:

Helpful Tip: Treat stains as soon as possible after staining. The older the stain, the more difficult it will be to remove. Perfumes often contain both alcohol and oils, as well as dyes, any of which can leave a stain. All stain removal methods should be applied prior to laundering washable garments. Stains that have been laundered and dried are almost impossible to remove. Always test a cleaning solution on a small, out-of-the-way area first to look for any adverse reaction.

Caution: Never mix chlorine bleach with ammonia - fumes are hazardous.

For Washable Fabrics:

What you will need

• Liquid hand dishwashing detergent
• White vinegar
• Rubbing alcohol
• Enzyme presoak product
• Chlorine bleach or oxygen bleach

Steps to Clean:

1. Soak for 15 minutes in mixture of one quart lukewarm water, one-half teaspoon liquid hand dishwashing detergent and one tablespoon white vinegar. Rinse.
2. Sponge with rubbing alcohol, using light motions from center to edge of stain.
3. Soak for 30 minutes in one quart warm water with one tablespoon enzyme presoak products.
4. If color stain remains, launder in chlorine bleach if safe for the fabric, or in oxygen bleach.

Carpet:

What you will need:

• White vinegar
• Detergent
• 3% Hydrogen peroxide

Steps to Clean:

1. Blot with a white paper towel to remove as much of the stain as possible, then neutralize with a white vinegar solution (1/3 cup WHITE vinegar in 2/3 cup of water). Saturate spot with white vinegar solution, using a spray bottle and blot to remove excess moisture.
2. Apply a small quantity of detergent solution to the spot. (To make the detergent solution mix 1/4 teaspoon of a hand dishwashing detergent which does not contain lanolin or bleach with 1 quart of water) Use a blotting motion to work the detergent into the affected area. If spot is being removed continue applying detergent and blotting with a white paper towel until spot is removed.
3. Rinse with tap water using a spray bottle, blot to remove excess moisture.
4. Spray lightly with water, do not blot this time; apply pad of paper towels and brick and allow to dry.
5. If there is still some stain on the carpet and blotting is not removing it, then moisten the tufts in the stained area with 3% hydrogen peroxide. Let stand for on (1) hour. Blot and repeat until carpet is stain free. Light will cause peroxide to change back to water so no rinsing is necessary. Apply pad of paper towels and weight down with brick.

Or

What you will need

• Detergent
• White vinegar

Steps to Clean:

1. Using clean white paper towels, blot up as much of the stain as possible.
2. Use plain water or mix one tablespoon of liquid dishwashing detergent and one tablespoon of white vinegar with two cups of warm water.
3. Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with a small amount of water or the detergent/vinegar solution. Apply a little bit at a time, blotting frequently with a dry cloth until the stain disappears.
4. If using a detergent/vinegar solution, sponge with cold water and blot dry to remove the solution.

Upholstery:

What you will need:

• Dry cleaning solvent

Steps to Clean:

1. Using a clean white cloth, sponge the stain with the dry cleaning solvent.
2. Blot until the solvent is absorbed.
3. Repeat Steps 2 and 3 until the stain disappears.

Other Surfaces:

Removing Perfume Stains From Wood:

• To remove perfume stains from the wooden top of your vanity table, rub a little olive oil over the spots. Then rub with a fresh, soft cloth to remove excess oil. 

Removing Perfume from Ceramic Tile:

• Step 1: Blot the perfume spill with paper towels or absorbent rags to remove most of the liquid. Do not wipe the perfume, which may spread oil and fragrance beyond the affected area.

• Step 2: Pour baking soda over the spill area. Allow the baking soda to absorb the liquid and oil from the perfume for five to ten minutes. Sweep it up with a broom and dustpan. Apply more baking soda to the perfume spill until the baking soda no longer wicks up any liquid or oil. Remove the last application of baking soda from the ceramic tile using your broom and dustpan.

• Step 3: Fill a bucket with warm water and add one teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent. Stir the soapy solution with your hands to mix.

• Step 4: Saturate a clean cloth with the soapy solution. Wipe the ceramic tile at the site of the spill. The dishwashing detergent will remove any remaining oils from the perfume. Dampen a clean cloth with water and rinse the tile. - info from Hunker.com

Some info suggested by the University of Illinois.

Collecting Opalescent Glass Commercial Perfume Bottles

In this guide, I will introduce you to the wonderful world of commercial perfume bottles made up of opalescent glass. The allure of these bottles lies not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in the history and craftsmanship behind them. Most of the bottles in this guide date to the 1920s and 1930s period.

Starting a collection with a specific focus, such as opalescent glass perfume bottles, can add a unique dimension to your hobby. It provides a clear direction and allows you to curate a cohesive and visually stunning collection.

When embarking on this journey, consider exploring various sources such as antique shops, flea markets, online auctions, and specialized collector forums. You may encounter a diverse range of designs, from simple and utilitarian to ornate and intricately decorated bottles.

It's essential to educate yourself about the different styles, manufacturers, and historical context surrounding these bottles. This knowledge will not only enhance your appreciation for the pieces you acquire but also help you make informed decisions when assessing their value and authenticity.

As your collection grows, documenting each acquisition with details such as the maker, design characteristics, and acquisition date can enrich your understanding of the evolving trends in perfume bottle design and production.

Additionally, connecting with fellow collectors can be a rewarding aspect of the hobby. Exchanging insights, sharing discoveries, and participating in community events or exhibitions can deepen your engagement with the subject and foster meaningful connections with like-minded enthusiasts.

Remember, collecting is as much about the joy of discovery and appreciation as it is about the tangible objects themselves. So, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opalescent glass perfume bottles, and let your collection reflect your passion and individual style!

What are Gourmand Fragrances?

Fragrances can be classified by certain olfactive families, or themes, or accords. In this guide I will briefly discuss the various themes.


Gourmand: 

Gourmand notes are a modern and increasingly popular category in perfumery, known for their edible, sweet, and sometimes dessert-like qualities. The word "gourmand" itself comes from French, meaning "greedy" or "gluttonous," reflecting the indulgent, mouth-watering nature of these fragrances. Gourmand notes typically feature flavors or scents that are associated with food, like vanilla, caramel, chocolate, sugar, almond, coffee, and honey. These fragrances are designed to evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and pleasure, often making them feel like a fragrant treat for the senses. Gourmand fragrances can range from light, sugary sweetness to deeper, richer dessert-like notes. They often create a sensation of richness and indulgence, leading many to associate them with cozy, intimate moments.

Within the broader gourmand category, there are several related olfactory groups that provide different variations of this edible theme, each with its unique take on sweetness and flavor. These include:

Citrus Gourmand: This variation combines the bright, tangy zest of citrus fruits with the sweet, sugary elements of gourmand notes. The freshness of citrus, like orange, lemon, or bergamot, is balanced by the creamy, sweet notes of vanilla, caramel, or sugar. This blend creates a lighter, more refreshing take on gourmand fragrances, where the sharpness of the citrus cuts through the richness of the sweetness, offering a playful and vibrant composition. Citrus gourmand fragrances are often uplifting, zesty, and lively, making them suitable for those who want to enjoy a gourmand fragrance without feeling overwhelmed by heaviness.

Fruity Gourmand: This group incorporates sweet, juicy fruits into the gourmand base, creating a playful, indulgent scent. Notes such as berries, peaches, apples, and tropical fruits are blended with the creamy sweetness of vanilla, caramel, or almond. The result is a fragrance that feels fresh and sweet but with a depth that comes from the more dessert-like gourmand components. Fruity gourmand fragrances can be incredibly versatile, offering both youthful, vibrant scents and more sophisticated, complex compositions depending on the balance of fruit and sweet notes. These fragrances often evoke the feeling of a fresh fruit tart or a bowl of ripe, juicy fruit drizzled with syrup.

Floral Fruity Gourmand: This variation adds an extra layer of complexity by incorporating floral notes into the fruity gourmand base. Flowers like jasmine, rose, or peony blend seamlessly with the juicy, sweet fruits and the indulgent, sugary elements of gourmand notes. The floral accents give the fragrance a soft, romantic, and often airy feel, making it less dense than traditional gourmand fragrances but still deliciously sweet. The floral fruity gourmand composition strikes a delicate balance between fruitiness, floral elegance, and edible richness. These fragrances often have a playful, feminine touch, making them ideal for those who enjoy sweet, but slightly lighter and more elegant, gourmand scents.

These subdivisions of the gourmand family each provide a unique approach to sweetness, offering a wide range of fragrance experiences, from fresh and fruity to rich and decadent. The gourmand family has expanded perfumery’s olfactory vocabulary, allowing fragrance creators to experiment with a sense of comfort and indulgence while still maintaining complexity and nuance. Whether you prefer the fresh zest of citrus, the juiciness of fruit, or the softness of flowers, there is a gourmand variation that can satisfy your sweet tooth in fragrance form.

Collecting Antique & Vintage Nail Buffers

Collecting antique and vintage nail buffers offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of beauty rituals, where even the most practical tools were transformed into objects of elegance and refinement. These charming accessories, which date back to the Victorian era, were once considered an essential part of a well-groomed woman’s vanity set. Unlike today’s disposable nail files and quick-dry polishes, historical nail buffers were made to last, often crafted from luxurious materials such as sterling silver, tortoiseshell, mother-of-pearl, or intricately carved celluloid. Their handles were frequently adorned with elaborate engravings, repoussé floral patterns, or monograms, making them as much a statement of personal style as they were a tool for achieving a glossy, natural shine on the nails.

The Victorian obsession with personal grooming and refinement ensured that nail buffers were not just practical items but beautiful keepsakes, often gifted to young women or passed down through generations. These buffers typically consisted of a padded, leather or chamois-covered base infused with a fine polishing powder, such as rouge or pumice, designed to gently smooth and enhance the natural sheen of the nails. Some were even scented, leaving behind a faint trace of violet, rose, or lavender—scents that evoke the elegance of bygone eras.

By the early 20th century, silver manufacturers and luxury brands such as Tiffany & Co., Gorham, and Cartier began producing highly decorative buffers, often as part of elaborate manicure sets that included cuticle scissors, nail files, and powder jars. During the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s, buffers took on sleek, geometric designs, often featuring enameled finishes, inlaid guilloché patterns, or shimmering Bakelite handles in bold colors. Hollywood starlets of the Golden Age were frequently depicted buffing their nails in glamorous dressing room scenes, reinforcing the notion that beautifully maintained hands were a symbol of sophistication and grace.

Even into the mid-century, nail buffers remained a staple of many women’s beauty routines, often found tucked into vanity drawers or elegant leather cases alongside pearl-tipped cuticle pushers and glass perfume bottles. For those who remember watching their mother or grandmother use one, there is a nostalgic charm in the rhythmic motion of buffing—a ritual that required patience and care, far removed from today’s fast-drying nail polishes and gel manicures.

Today, collecting antique and vintage nail buffers allows one to appreciate not only their craftsmanship but also the beauty ideals of different time periods. Whether displayed in a curio cabinet, incorporated into a vintage-inspired vanity set, or even used for their intended purpose, these exquisite objects serve as a reminder that elegance is often found in the smallest details.

Vintage Boudoir Dolls

Boudoir dolls have a fascinating history and were often intended more for display and decorative purposes rather than as toys for children. Their elegant appearance with long limbs and carefully crafted faces, often adorned with makeup like kohl-rimmed eyes and bee-stung lips, made them perfect additions to the ambiance of a bedroom.

Boudoir dolls were sold in department stores, gift shops, thru mail order catalogs and even given as carnival prizes. Boudoir dolls were often given as premiums too, for example a big beautiful Boudoir Doll could have been yours with the purchase of any Lane Cedar Chest in the mid 1950s.

The 1927 ad above shows a storefront with many boudoir dolls on display.

The period from around 1915 to the 1940s marked the golden age of boudoir dolls, characterized by exceptional craftsmanship and artistic innovation in doll-making. France certainly stood out as a leading producer of these dolls, renowned for its attention to detail and sophisticated designs.

However, other countries such as Italy, the United States, and the United Kingdom also made significant contributions to the boudoir doll industry. Each region brought its own unique style and cultural influences to the craft, enriching the diversity of boudoir doll production.

Italian boudoir dolls often showcased a flair for elegance and romance, while American dolls reflected the spirit of the times, with trends like flapper fashion and Hollywood glamour influencing their designs. British boudoir dolls, on the other hand, might have featured more traditional or Victorian-inspired motifs, reflecting the country's rich heritage in doll-making.

Overall, the global production of boudoir dolls during this period created a rich tapestry of styles and designs, each contributing to the enduring appeal and charm of these exquisite collectibles.

It's interesting to note the various distribution channels through which boudoir dolls were sold, ranging from department stores and gift shops to mail-order catalogs and even carnival prizes. The versatility of their availability speaks to their popularity and widespread appeal during their heyday.

The mention of boudoir dolls being offered as premiums, such as with the purchase of Lane Cedar Chests in the mid-1950s, highlights how they were used as incentives to attract customers and promote sales of other products. These dolls added a touch of elegance and charm to the homes of their owners, serving not only as decorative pieces but also as symbols of luxury and sophistication.

Materials:

They come in a variety of shapes, but most feature long arms and long legs which are made up of either composition,celluloid, hard plastic of cloth. Composition, the most popular medium for boudoir dolls faces, was a substance made up of sawdust, rags, flour and or wood pulp bound together with glue, then molded to a desired shape. However, heads can also be found made of wax, glazed china, celluloid, felt or bisque.  Composition is very hard to maintain, and is very prone to cracking, crazing, bubbling, flaking and peeling of the paint. Manufacturers realized this and started to make dolls with compo heads and hard plastic limbs, then eventually hard plastic heads with limbs.

As the mid-20th century approached, advancements in materials led to changes in the composition of boudoir doll faces and limbs. Rubber, vinyl, and hard plastic became more prevalent, especially by the 1950s, reflecting a shift towards more durable and cost-effective manufacturing techniques. However, this transition often resulted in dolls that were considered inferior in quality compared to their earlier counterparts.

One of the distinguishing features of boudoir dolls is their attention to detail, including the choice of materials for wigs and painted features. Human hair, silk floss, or mohair wigs were commonly used, though later dolls often featured synthetic hair. Painted features, such as bee-stung lips, heavy eyeshadow, and kohl-rimmed eyes, added to the dolls' allure, while some even boasted false eyelashes crafted from human or camel hair. The highest quality dolls were adorned with glass eyes that could close, adding a touch of realism to their appearance.

Boudoir doll bodies were crafted from a variety of materials, including stuffed cotton, suede, composition, flannel, muslin, velvet, silk, stockinette, leather, and felt, and filled with materials like straw, excelsior, kapok, or cotton batting. Elaborate costumes further enhanced their appeal, showcasing the skill and creativity of the doll-makers.

Kits were sold so you could create your own doll from a pattern as well as dressing it up with the accessories that came in the kit such as a straw hat, dress, shoes, silk roses, for just $1.95 in 1930. A company named "Household Arts by Alice Brooks" sold pattern kits in the 1930s  for boudoir dolls which could be made out of cotton or silk. "Let a boudoir doll add glamour to your room", says an advertisement for an Alice Brooks pattern. In 1934 she advertised the Alice in Wonderland themed boudoir doll pattern.

Diverse Subjects:

The diversity in boudoir doll designs is truly remarkable, reflecting the wide range of cultural influences, fashion trends, and societal interests of the time. From flapper types exuding the spirit of the Roaring Twenties in their lounging pajamas to Gypsies, Harlequins, Harem beauties, Spanish flamenco dancers, Pierrettes, Southern Belles and brides adorned with ruffled dresses, each doll captures a distinct aesthetic and persona. Some dolls were even dressed up in whimsical costumes.

Ethnic types, harem beauties, and even nun dolls showcase the fascination with exoticism and spirituality, offering collectors a glimpse into different cultures and lifestyles. The inclusion of smoker dolls, complete with simulated cigarettes, adds a touch of realism and playfulness to the collection, while male dolls dressed as sheiks embody a sense of mystique and allure.

It's fascinating how boudoir dolls often depict famous female actresses and historical figures, allowing collectors to connect with iconic personalities and moments in history. Whether it's Rudolf Valentino, Josephine Baker or Pola Negri on the silver screen, Marie Antoinette, or Martha Washington in the annals of history, these dolls serve as tributes to the influential women who have left their mark on society.

And let's not forget the whimsical touch of dolls inspired by literary figures like Edgar Allan Poe's Annabel Lee, adding a layer of storytelling and imagination to the collection. In essence, boudoir dolls offer a window into the past, capturing the essence of an era through their diverse array of characters and themes.

Bedroom Accessories:

Boudoir dolls in half size were attached to a metal frames to form lampshades and represented a unique and creative fusion of functionality and aesthetics. These dolls served a dual purpose, acting both as decorative ornaments and as practical lighting fixtures.

The concept of incorporating a doll into a lampshade design adds an element of whimsy and charm to the décor of a room. The doll's dress, typically made of fabric, would envelop the lampshade frame, creating a soft, diffused light when illuminated. This not only illuminated the space but also accentuated the doll's presence, casting a gentle glow that highlighted its features.

This clever design allowed boudoir dolls to become integrated into the functional aspects of interior design, transforming them from mere decorative objects into functional pieces of furniture. It's a testament to the creativity and ingenuity of doll-makers and designers who sought to elevate the beauty and utility of these beloved collectibles.

Also in the 1930s, you could purchase a satin rayon bedspread and a matching boudoir doll that concealed a pillow underneath her dress. Your choice of colors would have been rose, orchid, blue, gold or green. What a charming set that would have been! The idea of a matching satin rayon bedspread with a concealed pillow underneath the dress of a boudoir doll sounds incredibly elegant. The range of colors available—rose, orchid, blue, gold, and green—adds to the allure, offering options to suit different tastes and bedroom decor themes.

Pairing a bedspread with a coordinating boudoir doll not only enhances the visual appeal of the bedroom but also adds a touch of whimsy and personality. It's fascinating how even functional items like bedspreads were designed with such attention to detail and aesthetics during the 1930s, reflecting the emphasis on style and elegance in home decor during that era.

This combination would have certainly been a delightful addition to any bedroom, bringing a sense of luxury and sophistication to the space while also showcasing the creativity and craftsmanship of the time.

Overall, boudoir dolls represent a fascinating blend of artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural influences, offering collectors a glimpse into the elegance and sophistication of a bygone era.

Makers:

The dolls by the Italian maker Lenci are highly sought after by collectors for their distinctive molded felt faces and unique features, including their characteristic side-glancing eyes. The craftsmanship and attention to detail that went into creating Lenci dolls make them prized possessions among collectors, and their rarity often commands high prices in the market. Look for the Lenci mark.

You can find other boudoir dolls marked with the names Anita, Alma, W-K-S Inc. (Keeneye), Cornell, Gerling, Lobby, Smoker, "T",Gold, V, M, Whoopie, Kuddles, Braxted, European Novelty Company (Cubeb), Etta Doll Company, Sterling Doll Company, Munzerlite, Jeannine, Vantine's (usually misspelled Valines), Bloom, Blossom, Dean's Rag Book Co. Ltd, Stefania Lazarska, Norah Wellings, Raynal, Poupee Gerbs, DTF Berlin, Bucilla, Rudolph Leschhorn (RL),  JXB, Rosalinde, Chad Valley, R&B (Debuteen), Du Barry Dolls, Fairframe, Frankowska, and more.

It's interesting to note the variety of marks and names associated with other boudoir dolls as well. Each mark represents a different manufacturer or brand, each with its own history and style. Collectors often keep an eye out for these marks when hunting for valuable and collectible dolls, as they can indicate the maker and sometimes even the specific model or line of dolls.

From Anita to Sterling Doll Company, each mark represents a piece of doll-making history and adds to the diversity and richness of the boudoir doll collecting world. It's through these marks and names that collectors can trace the lineage and provenance of their prized possessions, further enhancing their value and significance in the world of doll collecting.

Boudoir dolls indeed have a fascinating history, don't they? They're such intricate pieces, crafted with attention to detail and often serving as both decorative items and conversation pieces. It's interesting how they were primarily intended for adult display rather than children's play, adding a touch of glamour and sophistication to a room.

The variety of materials used in their construction, from composition to celluloid to hard plastic, speaks to the evolution of doll-making techniques over time. And the fact that kits were available for individuals to create their own dolls reflects a DIY spirit that was prevalent in the early to mid-20th century.

It's understandable why composition faces, despite their delicate nature, were popular for boudoir dolls, given their ability to be molded into expressive features. However, the challenges in maintaining composition dolls due to their susceptibility to damage highlight the importance of adapting materials to improve durability over time.

Overall, boudoir dolls offer a glimpse into the aesthetics and craftsmanship of past eras, and they continue to be cherished by collectors and enthusiasts today.

All photos used are from past ebay auctions found on worthpoint.