Arpège by Lanvin, launched in 1927, is one of the house's most iconic perfumes, created by AndrĂ© 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.
