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.