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.

Norell by Norell c1968

 Norell by Norell, launched in 1968 in collaboration with Revlon, was not merely a fragrance; it embodied the iconic designer Norman Norell's vision of American elegance and sophistication. Norman Norell, a titan in American fashion, was known for his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to timeless, refined styles. The choice to name the perfume "Norell" was a strategic one, reinforcing his brand's identity with simplicity and boldness. Pronounced "Nor-ELL," the name resonates with elegance and sophistication, evoking images of chic, well-dressed women in luxurious surroundings. For women in the late 1960s, a perfume labeled "Norell" carried the allure of wearing an American couture designer's creation, suggesting a lifestyle of polished glamour that mirrored Norell's fashion aesthetic.

The scent of Norell captures that same essence, crafted by renowned perfumer Josephine Catapano. This fragrance was a departure from the heavy, heady scents of previous decades, introducing a fresh, green floral profile that felt bold and modern. The fragrance opens with a burst of green, leafy notes—clean, crisp, and invigorating—an immediate breath of fresh air. In the heart, a bouquet of Bulgarian rose, jasmine absolute, and hyacinth adds a layered floral complexity, with touches of carnation spice lending depth and character. The scent settles into a warm, woody base where notes of sandalwood, oakmoss, amber, and musk create a lasting and sophisticated finish. The fragrance, as described by Norell, was designed to have a "kick," echoing the fresh, dynamic spirit of the era.

Calvin Klein by Calvin Klein c1978

Calvin Klein by Calvin Klein: launched in 1978 along with a complete makeup and skincare collection developed with Stanley Kohlenberg, the man who masterminded Norell fragrances at Revlon. 

Due to the packaging, this is also known as Calvin Klein (red) by collectors.

Perfumes Isabell

In 1996, Robert Isabell, renowned for his impeccable taste as a society party planner and floral designer extraordinaire, sought to diversify his business and ensure its long-term stability. Known for his ability to create unforgettable events with breathtaking floral arrangements, Isabell recognized the potential to expand his creative vision into the realm of fragrances. Drawing upon his expertise in design and his deep appreciation for the art of scent, he launched a series of fragrances under the Parfums Isabell brand.

Isabell’s transition from event planning and floral design to fragrance creation was a natural evolution of his artistic talents. His background in crafting visually stunning and sensorially rich experiences provided a solid foundation for developing perfumes that were both luxurious and memorable. The launch of his fragrance line in 1996 was marked by a commitment to capturing the essence of elegance and sophistication, attributes that defined his previous work in floral design.

The fragrances crafted by Robert Isabell were designed to embody the same exquisite quality and attention to detail that characterized his event planning. Each scent was meticulously created to reflect a blend of opulence and refinement, capturing the nuanced beauty of the world through perfume. His ability to curate and design with a heightened sense of aesthetic and sensory pleasure translated seamlessly into his perfume creations, resulting in a collection that offered a sophisticated and enduring appeal.

This foray into the fragrance industry allowed Isabell to extend his creative influence beyond the realms of event planning and floral design, creating a stable and enduring presence in the world of perfumery. By leveraging his established reputation for elegance and his understanding of sensory experiences, Robert Isabell ensured that his fragrance line would stand out in a competitive market, appealing to those who sought both beauty and lasting quality in their olfactory indulgences.

Ritz by Charles of the Ritz c1972

Ritz by Charles of the Ritz was launched in 1972, presenting itself as a notable addition to the fragrance landscape of the early 1970s. This perfume distinguished itself with an intense floral chypre composition, blending rich floral notes with warm, woodsy undertones. It was known for its sophisticated and elegant character, which was mirrored in its distinctive packaging and its complex olfactory profile.

The Ritz fragrance was carefully crafted to offer a bold and captivating scent experience. The initial top notes featured a fresh and vibrant aldehydic green, combined with the sharpness of galbanum, the fruitiness of peach, and the crispness of hyacinth. This opening was followed by a lush floral heart, where violet, rose, jasmine, lily of the valley, carnation, orris, geranium, and ylang ylang intertwined in a harmonious bouquet. The fragrance then settled into a rich, warm base of vetiver, sandalwood, amber, oakmoss, musk, Virginia cedar, and incense, creating a deep, lasting impression.

In 1977, another perfume was introduced under the name Charles of the Ritz by Charles of the Ritz. Despite the similarity in names, this fragrance was distinct from the original 1972 Ritz. The 1977 iteration focused on a different fragrance profile and was a separate creation within the Charles of the Ritz brand portfolio. It’s important to note that while both perfumes shared the Charles of the Ritz brand, they were different in their compositions and market positioning.

The Ritz launched in 1972 remains a classic example of the floral chypre genre from that era, celebrated for its elegant and complex scent. Its packaging, with shiny aluminum canisters and clear glass bottles, complemented the luxurious nature of the fragrance, making it a memorable and stylish choice for fragrance connoisseurs of the time.

Mystere by D'Orsay c1915

Mystere by D'Orsay: launched in 1915.

May & Malone Compacts c1931 Advertisement

Compacts shown in an advertisement in a 1931 May & Malone catalog page. One of them is by La Mode, the others are not named by manufacturer. You can see some lipstick compact sets, ance compacts with swinging handles, vanities, double compacts, etc. Also a "Cig-Vannette" by Mondaine. Some are engine turned, enameled, etc. Nice Eastern Star enameled compact also shown below.

original image by ebay seller gdawg

Ecco by Princess Marcella Borghese c1960

Ecco by Princess Marcella Borghese: launched in 1960. The word means "Look" in Italian.

Rumeur by Lanvin c1934

Rumeur by Lanvin: launched in 1934. Created by André Fraysse. Intended primarily for furs.

Mollie Parnis by Mollie Parnis c1978

Mollie Parnis by Mollie Parnis: launched in 1978 under the name Mollie Parnis Cosmetics Dist., possibly in conjunction with Parfums Weil. The perfume was concocted in France but botted in the USA. She chose tuberose as a main ingredient as it was her favorite flower, one of which she used to keep fresh blossoms in vases in her office.

In a 1977 article, Mollie Parnis mentions that "The French had ideas about perfume, I had some about fashion, we finally agreed...The world is getting more American designer oriented...I believe that creativity, whether it's in the arts or anything else, is where the money is. The money is here, we have the know-how and the creativity. "

Vintage 1980s Perfume Parody Advertisements with Animals

Here are some adorable perfume parodies from the 1980s featuring some of the cutest cats and dogs.

all photos from ebay seller tisa2

Benevolence by House of Sillage c2012

Benevolence by House of Sillage: launched in 2012. Created by acclaimed French perfumer Francis Camail.

Eau Fraiche by Madeleine de Rauch c1974

Eau Fraiche by Madeleine de Rauch was introduced in 1974, embodying a refreshing spirit that resonated with the ethos of the time. Madeleine de Rauch, a prominent figure in the fragrance industry, was known for her ability to craft scents that captured the essence of elegance and sophistication. The name Eau Fraiche, which translates to "fresh water" in French (pronounced "oh fraysh"), perfectly encapsulates the light, invigorating quality of this fragrance. The term evokes imagery of crisp, clear waters and sun-kissed orchards, conjuring feelings of vitality and a sense of liberation.

In the 1970s, the fragrance market was experiencing a shift towards lighter, more refreshing scents, particularly as the era embraced a more casual and free-spirited lifestyle. Women of this period sought perfumes that complemented their active lives while providing a sense of rejuvenation. Eau Fraiche, with its citrusy notes reminiscent of sun-ripened fruit from southern Italy and the bitter and sweet oranges from the Côte-d'Azur, appealed to this desire for freshness and vitality. This fragrance was designed to be unpretentious yet captivating, aligning with the decade’s emphasis on natural beauty and well-being.

Etoile D'Or by Volnay c2013

Etoile D'Or by Volnay: launched in 2013.  Created by Amelie Bourgeois who was inspired to create a modern interpretation of Etoile D'Or by using one of Volnay's original formulas dating back to the 1920s.

Parfums Djemil - Parfums d'Orient

Société Française des Produits et Parfums Djemil was established on March 13, 1922, in Paris, located at 39 rue Pigalle, with an initial capital of 625,000 francs. According to Perfume Intelligence, Parfums Djemil's origins trace back to Egypt, where it originally operated as a perfumery. Their earliest known fragrance, Jasmin d'Egypte, dates to around 1910, suggesting the house's long-standing connection to Egyptian-inspired scents and culture.

Beyond perfumes, Djemil expanded its product line to include cosmetics. Among their offerings was Poudre de riz Djemil, a finely milled rice powder used as a facial cosmetic. They also sold Le Djemil Véritable Kohl d'Orient, an authentic oriental kohl powder designed for eye lining, which reflects the brand's embrace of traditional beauty practices from the East. Djemil's product range exemplifies the blending of French perfumery expertise with exotic, Middle Eastern influences, a hallmark of early 20th-century cosmetics and fragrance brands that sought to evoke an air of the exotic.

Zig Zag by Zsa Zsa Gabor c1969

Zig Zag by Zsa Zsa Gabor: launched in 1969.

The fragrance was available in the following products:

• Parfum
• Parfum Spray Mist
• Parfum Bath Oil

Flor de Blason by Myrurgia c1926

In 1926, Spain was a country rich with historical and cultural references to its chivalric past. The legacy of knights, noble families, and castles was still very much a part of the national consciousness. This era was characterized by a deep appreciation for Spain's medieval heritage, where the grandeur of castles, the intricate beauty of coat of arms, and the stories of valorous knights were celebrated. This period saw a romanticized view of the past, often depicted in literature, art, and emerging cinematic works.

Films and literature of the early 20th century often revisited these themes, glorifying the age of chivalry and the nobility. Movies that focused on medieval times, with their grandiose depictions of knights in shining armor and beautiful maidens, were popular. This historical nostalgia would have been a significant cultural backdrop against which Myrurgia launched "Flor de Blason."

The name "Flor de Blason" itself is deeply evocative and meaningful. In Spanish, "Flor de Blason" translates to "Flower of the Coat of Arms." The term "blason" refers to heraldic crests and coat of arms, symbols of noble lineage and heritage. The inclusion of "flower" evokes a sense of beauty, delicacy, and something treasured and admired. Therefore, the name combines notions of nobility and grace, suggesting a perfume that embodies these qualities.

"Flor de Blason" would make an excellent name for a perfume because it captures the essence of elegance and heritage. For women in 1926, a perfume named "Flor de Blason" would have conjured images of aristocratic splendor and timeless beauty. The name alone would evoke visions of lush castle gardens, the romanticism of noble lineages, and the refined, dignified life of the upper echelons of society.

Sleeping by Schiaparelli c1938

In 1938, the launch of the perfume "Sleeping" by Schiaparelli occurred amidst a period marked by both artistic innovation and looming geopolitical tensions. Elsa Schiaparelli, the fashion designer behind the fragrance, was renowned for her avant-garde approach to fashion, often blending surrealism with high fashion. This era saw a burgeoning interest in abstract and dreamlike concepts, mirroring the escapism sought by many in the face of economic hardship and impending global conflict.

Schiaparelli's connection to perfumes was deeply intertwined with her fashion philosophy. She viewed fragrance as an extension of her artistic vision, using it to complement and enhance the narrative of her clothing collections. Her perfumes were not merely scents, but stories told through olfactory notes, evoking emotions and imagery akin to her fashion designs.

The name "Sleeping" for a perfume chosen by Schiaparelli carries layers of symbolism. "Sleeping" suggests a state of tranquility, serenity, and perhaps even latent potential waiting to be awakened. In the context of 1938, amidst growing political tensions and uncertainty, a perfume named "Sleeping" could be seen as an invitation to escape into dreams and fantasy, offering a temporary respite from the harsh realities of the world.

Those who related to a perfume named "Sleeping" might be drawn to its promise of tranquility and escape. They might respond to its fragrance as a soothing balm for the mind, evoking images of serene landscapes, gentle breezes, or the softness of a quiet morning. The scent itself would likely embody floral and powdery notes, invoking a sense of comfort and nostalgia.

Au Printemps

Established by by Jules Jaluzot in Paris in c1890; designer of leather goods; now luxury department store; launched fragrances but used a name "Luce Printamp" or "Luce Printemps" for their perfumes.

Lutece by Houbigant c1984

Lutece by Houbigant: launched in 1984. Apparently, "Lutece" was the old name for the city of Paris.

Parfumerie de Jussy Saint-James

Parfumerie de Jussy Saint-James, a prominent manufacturer of fragrances and cosmetics, was originally established under the name Au Jardin Fleuri in the Halle aux Vins district of Paris in 1890. This initial establishment positioned the company at the heart of the thriving Parisian perfumery and wine trade area, where many perfumers and merchants operated.

Originally known as James Ducellier, the business was located at 2 Préau des Eaux-de-Vie, emphasizing its connection to the perfumery and spirits industries. Perfume and alcohol were often closely linked in the 19th century due to the use of alcohol as a solvent in fragrance production. James Ducellier’s establishment likely catered to this burgeoning demand for fine perfumes and cosmetic products during a period when Paris was becoming the global epicenter for luxury goods and personal care items.

As the business evolved, the company saw a change in leadership. Its successor, Veuve L. Dupont et Fils, continued to operate the business, likely bringing a new era of management and potentially expanding the product range or refining its existing offerings. The transition to Veuve L. Dupont et Fils suggests that the family tradition played a significant role in the company’s continuity, maintaining its legacy within the competitive world of French perfumery.

Parfumerie de Jussy Saint-James contributed to the rich tradition of French fragrance and cosmetics manufacturing, sustaining a lineage that began with James Ducellier's pioneering efforts in the late 19th century. Through changes in ownership and branding, the company remained a player in the Parisian perfumery scene, embodying the craftsmanship and attention to detail that defined the French fragrance industry of that era.

Votre Main by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the year "Votre Main" was launched by Jean Desprez, Europe and the world were on the brink of World War II. The late 1930s marked a tumultuous period of rising tensions, political upheaval, and economic instability. France, where Jean Desprez was based, was particularly affected by the looming threat of war, which would soon engulf the continent. It was a time of uncertainty and change, with cultural and societal norms undergoing shifts amidst the backdrop of global conflict.

Jean Desprez chose the name "Votre Main" for their perfume, a phrase that translates to "your hand" in French. This name carries a sense of intimacy and personal connection. In French, the word "main" not only refers to the physical hand but also metaphorically represents touch, connection, and personal expression. By naming the perfume "Votre Main," Desprez aimed to evoke a sense of personal closeness and elegance, suggesting a fragrance that could become intimately associated with its wearer.

"Votre Main" would have appealed to individuals who appreciated sophistication, refinement, and the artistry of fragrance. In the context of 1939, amidst the uncertainties of war, a perfume named "Votre Main" would likely have resonated with those seeking moments of beauty and luxury amid challenging times. It would have been seen as a personal indulgence, a small but meaningful luxury that offered a sense of comfort and elegance amidst the turmoil of the era.

Les Parfums de Peyronnet

Les Parfums de Peyronnet, also known as Parfumerie Peyronnet of Paris, was a distinguished perfumery subtitled "à la haie fleuri" (meaning "at the blooming hedge"). The business was also referred to as Parfumerie Peyronnet-Talence and Parfums Peyronnet-Talence in various forms of communication, including a letterhead and a catalog from 1919, indicating the broad recognition of its name and offerings.

Founded in 1897 by Auguste F. Peyronnet at 110 Chemin de Pessac, the perfumery originally began as a small venture in Talence, a suburb of Bordeaux, France. Over the years, the company grew in prominence, producing a variety of fragrant and cosmetic products. Auguste's legacy was later continued by his son, Jean Peyronnet, ensuring that the family business remained under the stewardship of its founders and expanded its reach in the French perfume industry.

Les Parfums de Peyronnet produced a wide range of products beyond perfumes, showcasing the versatility of the brand. In addition to perfumes and eaux de cologne, the company manufactured a variety of personal care items including toothpaste, brilliantines (hair grooming products), mouthwash, and hair lotions. These offerings positioned the company as a comprehensive producer of beauty and hygiene products during a time when grooming was becoming an integral part of daily life.

One of their notable trademarks was Princia, a line that likely became synonymous with their brand, along with their signature Eau de Cologne, which exemplified the timeless French tradition of fine cologne crafting. With its varied and well-rounded product lines, Parfumerie Peyronnet made a significant contribution to the development of French perfumery and cosmetics, remaining a staple in personal care throughout its operational years.

Fath's Love by Jacques Fath c1961

Fath's Love by Jacques Fath: launched in 1961. The name was filed for a US trademark in 1963.