Welcome!

Welcome to my unique perfume blog! Here, you'll find detailed, encyclopedic entries about perfumes and companies, complete with facts and photos for easy research. This site is not affiliated with any perfume companies; it's a reference source for collectors and enthusiasts who cherish classic fragrances. My goal is to highlight beloved, discontinued classics and show current brand owners the demand for their revival. Your input is invaluable! Please share why you liked a fragrance, describe its scent, the time period you wore it, any memorable occasions, or what it reminded you of. Did a relative wear it, or did you like the bottle design? Your stories might catch the attention of brand representatives. I regularly update posts with new information and corrections. Your contributions help keep my entries accurate and comprehensive. Please comment and share any additional information you have. Together, we can keep the legacy of classic perfumes alive!

Thursday, August 7, 2014

Les Parfums Brisson

Les Parfums Brisson was established at 65-67 avenue des Champs-ElysĂ©es, Paris  in 1945.





The perfumes of Brisson:

  • 1945 Toboggan
  • 1945 FĂȘte Foraine
  • 1945 Feu et Flamme
  • 1945 Quartier Latin
  • 1945 Dynamisme
  • 1945 Fleur de Tabac

Tuesday, August 5, 2014

A La Cocarde de France Eau de Cologne by Delia c1938

 A La Cocarde de France Eau de Cologne by M. Delia: launched in 1938.


American Druggist, Volume 97, 1938:
"Maurice Levy makes known the rediscovery of the Empress Josephine's favorite, exclusive eau de cologne, by M. Delia of Paris. Amusingly named "A la Cocarde de France," the cologne has a floral scent and is bottled in a flat crystal square with a heavy knob stopper. Use post card insert."

Perfumery and Essential Oil Record, 1938:
"A new eau de cologne has been put on the market by " Delia," which is claimed to be the perfume used by Napoleon's first wife, the Empress Josephine. Certainly it has a delicate, lingering scent, and its package, an oval flask bearing a decorative label, is in itself a sufficient attraction without any reputation from by-gone years."


Monday, August 4, 2014

Morana Inc. Imported Perfume Bottles by Julien Viard

In the 1922 article below, Morana Inc "have secured the exclusive American agency of C & J Viard and R. Mouquet, glass bottle designers and manufacturers of Montreuil, Seine, France." The most well-known bottle used by Morana was the cherub stoppered bottle designed by Julien Viard and made in Czechoslovakia. This bottle was most likely used by various perfumes, in one photo below, we can see it was used by both Lemoine and Prochaska.



The American Perfumer and Essential Oil Review, Volume 16, 1922:
"Beginning with this issue, the usual insert of Morana, Inc. which appears between advertising pages 16 and 17, has been increased to six pages, at which size it will continue until the further growth of the business makes necessary the use of larger space. The increase in the size of the insert is due to the addition of an imported bottle department. As was reported in the last issue, Morana, Inc. have secured the exclusive American agency of C. and J. Viard and R. Mouquet, glass bottle designers and manufacturers of Montreuil, Seine, France. This insert is another example of a sagacious advertiser recognizing the value of this kind of display, which gives prominence to his own products, and incidentally livens up the advertising section as a whole, and we are told stimulates the interest of the casual reader in the contents of the entire journal."

The American Perfumer and Essential Oil Review, 1920:
"One of the most interesting developments in the American perfumery and flavoring extract supply industry took place on October 1 when Compagnie Morana and the Commonwealth Products Corporation were united into a single corporation. Compagnie Morana has increased its capital stock to $1,000,000 common stock $250,000 first preferred $600,000 second preferred $150,000 and changed its corporate name to Morana Incorporated under which name Compagnie Morana and the Commonwealth Products Corporation will henceforth be conducted. 
Morana Incorporated is the outgrowth of a modest business established fourteen years ago by Carl Schaetzer, Warren E Burns, and Williard A Walsh. Their training and temperament well fitted them for harmonious and effective association and the present division of responsibilities indicates the trend of their natural aptitudes viz the production department under Mr Schaetzer, who is president the financial and foreign departments under Mr Burns, who is vice president and the sales department under Mr Walsh, who is treasurer. The secretary of the company is Mr Walter Mueller. 
Commonwealth Products Corporation was established some six years ago for the manufacture of flavors, synthetic aromatic chemicals, etc. Its plant at Elizabeth, NJ was rapidly developed and is now well equipped for the manufacture on a large scale of the products in which it has specialized. Its staff includes a group of chemists who have made reputations for themselves, both here and abroad, as specialists in the manufacture of aromatic chemicals and similar products. Its union with Morana Incorporated affords it a large outlet through the extensive and well trained selling staff of that corporation Morana Incorporated for its part acquires a well developed manufacturing plant and organization thereby assuring a steady and controllable supply of synthetic raw materials and flavors." 



Morana, Inc developed into IFF, read  about that here.













Saturday, August 2, 2014

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!

Friday, August 1, 2014

Parfumerie Rafin

Parfumerie  Rafin, 5 avenue Victoria, Paris, established in 1855 by Henri Rafin, a pharmacist. Launched fragrances in mid 1920's.

Company seems to have been taken over by Georges Moehr of Parfumerie Moehr of Monte-Carlo by the 1940s.

Parfumerie de Monte-Carlo N. Moehr

Moehr perfumery of Monte Carlo. It was established by Nestor Moehr and Georges Moehr.



Tijan by D'Arline c1924

 Tijan by D'Arline, a French perfume division from American Druggists Syndicate, Long Island City, N. Y.




The Evening Standard, 1930:
"SHEARER'S Once Again Offer the Unusual PERFUME VALUES E X T R A O R D I N A R Y. Regular $7.50. Original Package D'ARLINES "TIJAN" The Famous French Perfume At Vs Regular Price Regular $7.50 Size. D'ARLINE'S "TI JAN" is one of the finest of imported French perfumes . . . of an exquisite and subtle fragrance, encased in beautiful gift box of unusual charm. This value will show you the type of savings you may expect at Shearer's. A rare value that we are glad to offer our customers. We were only able to secure a limited quantity of these packages. Come early and secure your bottle In this phenomenal offering. The perfume is in the original scaled package, just as we received it from the importer."


Vintage Tijan perfume bottle by the American Druggist Syndicate in Long Island New York in 1924. Presented in its beautiful cylindrical drum-shaped cardboard box covered with polychrome paper decorated with a a large gold, stylized Art Deco flower with the petals drooping over to the sides of the box, gold petals alternate with a few aqua blue. 

Perfume bottle is a clear glass bottle in a squat inkwell or melon shape, cylindrical section, curved belly. Gold paper label. Frosted glass cabochon stopper features a molded decoration of a butterfly sipping the nectar out of a flower. Perfume bottle stands about 2 ½ inches tall. Box dimension: 3 inches round by 2 ¾ inches tall. 

Unknown bottle manufacturer, in the style of Julien Viard and Depinoix.
 

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Raquel, Inc

Raquel, Inc. Established by Graeff Miller at 475 Fifth Avenue, New York City in 1924, started marketing in 1926. Raquel produced lipstick, rouge, face powder, soap, compacts, toilet water, sachet, talcum and bath crystals, all in addition to perfumes.

In 1926, Raquel, Inc., New York, perfumes and powders, placed its advertising account with the World Wide Advertising Corporation, New York. 

In 1927, Raquel, Inc. was purchased by Barclay & Co. at 26 Beaver Street, New York City. Raquel, Inc. manufactured perfumes, while Barclay was engaged chiefly in the exportation of soap.

By 1932, the company seems to have moved to 251 W.19th Street, New York City.



Monday, July 28, 2014

Onduline Hair Wiring Water by Jean

Permanent wave (curling) fluid.  The paper label has a rooster trademark and reads "Produits de Jean Senegas."

The Winnipeg Tribune, 1911:
"Also "Onduline" Hair Wiring Water. A preparation that produces a quick and lasting wave, curl or crimp that will not be affected by moisture or perspiration. It is perfectly free from grease and gives to the ha if a soft glossy appearance that is the desire of all women. Non injurious. Put up in bottles and in two sizes."

Monday, July 21, 2014

Bab's Creations Perfumes

Bab's Creations, Inc. was established around 1939 at West 52nd Street in New York City, marking the beginning of a brief but intriguing venture into the world of toiletries and fragrances. The company was known for its distinctive and elegant offerings, catering to a clientele that appreciated quality and sophistication. Situated in a bustling area of the city, Bab's Creations quickly became a notable name in the local beauty and fragrance scene, offering a range of products designed to enhance personal grooming and style.

During its operation, Bab's Creations produced a variety of toiletries and fragrances, likely including perfumes, colognes, lotions, and other beauty products. The company's products were characterized by their unique scents and appealing packaging, which resonated with the fashionable and discerning consumers of the time. The late 1930s and early 1940s were a period of significant change and development in the beauty industry, with a growing emphasis on personal care and the allure of exotic, well-crafted fragrances. Bab's Creations positioned itself within this trend, contributing to the evolving tastes and preferences of its customers.

However, the company's operations were relatively short-lived. Bab's Creations ceased production in 1945, just six years after its establishment. The reasons for the company's closure are not widely documented, but it could have been due to a variety of factors such as economic challenges, changes in consumer behavior, or shifts in the competitive landscape of the beauty and fragrance industry. Despite its brief existence, Bab's Creations, Inc. left a mark on the New York beauty scene of the early 1940s, remembered for its contribution to the era's culture of elegance and personal grooming.




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