Magic Beat by Max Factor c1986

In 1986, Max Factor released Magic Beat, it's trio of fragrances specifically designed for teenagers in conjunction with singer Michael Jackson.

Magic Beat was under a license from Michael Jackson to use his picture and signature in promoting the line. Entertainment Properties paid $18 million for the right to market the Michael memorabilia.

La Route d'Emeraude by Isabey c1924

La Route d'Emeraude by Isabey: launched in 1924. Originally created by Isabey's chief perfumer, Robert Bienaimé.

The fanciful name refers to the so-called Emerald Route. The route delivered precious stones and other valuables from the southern regions of Asia, to Iran and the Near East.

Anny Blatt

Anny Blatt, a distinguished French designer, is celebrated for revolutionizing the world of knitwear with her sophisticated and luxurious designs. Known for her impeccable craftsmanship, Blatt was among the first to introduce hand-knitted clothing for women, transforming knitwear from simple, functional pieces into high-fashion garments. Her innovative approach set a new standard in the fashion industry, blending elegance with the timeless art of knitting.

In 1934, Blatt expanded her creative influence by venturing into the world of perfumery. This move marked another chapter in her illustrious career, where she applied the same dedication to quality and artistry that defined her fashion designs. Through her perfumes, Blatt continued to express her unique vision, offering women not only exquisite clothing but also fragrances that complemented the sophistication and allure of her knitwear collections.

Youthful Secrets Formerly Fantasy Perfumes Designer Imposter Perfumes

Youthful Secrets (formerly Fantasy Perfumes) distributed their versions of popular perfumes, otherwise known as "designer imposter perfumes". The "Youthful Secrets" brand was sold by the Seta Corporation and was available to airline passengers at deeply discounted prices. One ounce bottles of these oil based knockoff perfumes sold for just $19.99 as opposed to much higher prices for their genuine designer counterparts. The Youthful Secrets line was trademarked in 1989.

These perfumes were only identified by a number so if you need to know which fragrance your numbered bottle was supposed to mimic, use my handy guide below.

Dark Brilliance by Lentheric c1946

Dark Brilliance by Lentheric: launched in 1946.

Christian Lacroix by Christian Lacroix c1999

Christian Lacroix by Christian Lacroix: launched in 1999. The fragrance, created by Sophia Grojsman, is strongly inspired by Lacroix's native region of sunny Provence. 

It was first only available at Saks Fifth Avenue stores.

Grain de Folie by Parfums Nicky Verfaillie c1981

"Grain de Folie" by Nicky Verfaillie was launched in 1982, a period characterized by significant social and cultural shifts. The early 1980s marked the beginning of a decade known for its extravagance, innovation, and breaking away from traditional norms. This era saw a rise in the prominence of avant-garde fashion, the growing influence of pop culture, and a burgeoning sense of individualism. It was a time when people were increasingly embracing bold, unconventional styles and celebrating the eccentric. Perfumes from this period often mirrored these trends with daring compositions and striking presentations. "Grain de Folie," with its whimsical and slightly rebellious name, perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the times—playful, audacious, and full of life.

The name "Grain de Folie" translates to "Seed of Madness" in English. This intriguing name suggests a small but potent spark of wildness and spontaneity, capturing the essence of unpredictable and joyous moments. Nicky Verfaillie likely chose this name to convey a sense of fun and carefree abandon, inviting wearers to embrace their playful side and indulge in moments of delightful madness. The concept of a "seed" also implies that this madness is an intrinsic part of one's nature, waiting to grow and flourish.

"Grain de Folie" is an appropriate name for a perfume because it embodies the idea of a scent that can spark joy and whimsy. The name suggests a fragrance that is both captivating and exhilarating, encouraging the wearer to break free from the mundane and experience moments of pure, unrestrained happiness. It speaks to the transformative power of scent, how it can ignite a sense of adventure and spontaneity, making life feel more vibrant and exciting.

Heure Intime by Vigny c1933

Launching in 1933, "Heure Intime" by Vigny emerged during a tumultuous yet culturally rich period marked by the Great Depression. Despite economic hardships, this era also saw a resurgence of opulence and escapism in fashion, art, and fragrance.

The Great Depression, which began in 1929, cast a shadow over global economies, leading to widespread unemployment and financial insecurity. However, amidst these challenges, there was a cultural movement towards elegance and sophistication as a form of escapism from the harsh realities of the time. This was reflected in the fashion trends of the era, which embraced luxurious materials and intricate designs.

"Heure Intime," with its launch in 1933, encapsulated this dichotomy. The name itself, meaning "Intimate Hour," hinted at a desire for personal connection and escapism during uncertain times. Perfumes during this period often served not just as personal adornments but as a means of expressing elegance, grace, and a desire for a better world beyond economic hardships.

Jacques Vogel, the perfumer behind "Heure Intime," likely crafted a fragrance that resonated with the mood of the era. It might have blended floral notes with deeper, more complex undertones, providing wearers with a sense of sophistication and luxury that was increasingly sought after during the Great Depression.

Choosing "Heure Intime" not only honors its historical significance but also reflects a taste for timeless elegance and resilience in the face of adversity. Its blend of floral and possibly oriental notes continues to evoke a sense of mystery and allure, making it a poignant choice for those who appreciate fragrances with depth and a connection to history.

Chaos by Donna Karan c1994

Chaos by Donna Karan: launched in 1994. Created by the perfumers at International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF).

Garwood's Standard Perfumes

Philadelphia; claimed established in 1852; most likely c1873; a subsidiary of Schandein & Lind in c1900; launched a range of fragrances in the first quarter of 20th century.

Liz Claiborne by Liz Claiborne c1986

Liz Claiborne by Liz Claiborne: launched in 1986. This is the first fragrance by designer Liz Claiborne. Created by the perfumers at IFF (International Flavors & Fragrances). The idea was for the company to make a fragrance that represented Liz herself.

In 1985, Avon and Liz Claiborne had signed a joint agreement to create and market the new entry. Avon participated in product research, supply and development of the scent. Liz Claiborne Cosmetics were completely responsible for the sales and marketing of the fragrance.

Ocean Dream by Giorgio Beverly Hills c1996

Ocean Dream by Giorgio Beverly Hills, launched in 1996, emerged from a collaborative effort involving Designer Parfums and Proctor & Gamble. This partnership aimed to bring forth a fragrance that would resonate deeply with the essence of southern California, capturing the essence of the region’s iconic beach culture. Crafted by the renowned perfumer Alberto Morillas, Ocean Dream was designed to evoke the serene and invigorating qualities of the ocean, reflecting the omnipresence of the beach in the southern California lifestyle.

Alberto Morillas, known for his ability to create complex and evocative scents, infused Ocean Dream with a fragrance profile that celebrates the coastal allure of the region. The scent was meticulously crafted to encapsulate the fresh, aquatic environment of the beach, blending notes that evoke the feeling of a gentle sea breeze and the beauty of oceanic landscapes. By incorporating elements that resonate with the southern California consciousness, Morillas created a fragrance that was not only a tribute to the physical beauty of the coast but also a sensory representation of the lifestyle and spirit associated with it.

The release of Ocean Dream was more than just the introduction of a new fragrance; it was a celebration of the southern California lifestyle, where the beach is not just a physical place but a cultural touchstone. The fragrance's composition, with its fresh, aquatic, and floral notes, was intended to transport the wearer to the serene and rejuvenating environment of the ocean, capturing the essence of coastal living. This innovative approach to fragrance design, blending artistic creativity with regional inspiration, helped Ocean Dream stand out in the crowded fragrance market, offering a sensory escape to the tranquil beauty of the beach.

The collaboration between Designer Parfums, Proctor & Gamble, and Alberto Morillas was instrumental in bringing Ocean Dream to life, blending expertise in fragrance creation with a deep understanding of the cultural significance of southern California’s beach scene. The result was a fragrance that not only pleased the senses but also resonated with the lifestyle and values of its intended audience, solidifying Ocean Dream as a memorable and evocative addition to the world of perfumery.

Esprit de Phantom by Phantom of the Opera c1988

Esprit de Phantom for women was launched in 1988. Created during the Phantom play craze by Creative Fragrances, Inc. All the spirit, all the romance of the Broadway musical is distilled in a glamorous new fragrance as mysterious and seductive as the drama. Esprit de Phantom. This scent was commissioned to be sold during intermission at the shows. Limited edition souvenir scent from the show (interesting concept).

Dahlia by Arlene Dahl c1976

Dahlia by Arlene Dahl (Parfums Dahlia): launched in 1976. Created by Bud Lindsay of Roure Bertrand Dupont.

Parfums Avenel

Parfums Avenel, founded in 1900 by Louis Avenel, was a distinguished French perfume house located at 24 rue de Rocher in Paris. The company quickly established itself in the fragrance industry, capturing the elegance and sophistication of early 20th-century Parisian style. Its prime location on rue de Rocher, a street known for its proximity to luxury and fashion, underscored Avenel’s commitment to high-quality and exclusive fragrances.

Avenel’s perfumes were not only celebrated in France but also gained significant international recognition, particularly in Great Britain. The company’s ability to appeal to the British market was a testament to its elegant formulations and sophisticated branding, which resonated with the tastes of an elite clientele across the Channel. The successful export of Parfums Avenel's products to Great Britain marked a period of expansion and prominence for the brand, solidifying its reputation as a key player in the global perfume industry of the early 1900s.

Verdigris by Robert Lee Morris c1988

Verdigris by Robert Lee Morris c1988. First scent from the famed New York jewelry designer. Created by the perfumers at the French based essential oil manufacturers, Roure. The scent was named after the greenish metal Morris has made popular in his jewelry designs. He says "it's the greenish patina you find on ancient sculpture and artifacts."

L'Envie Parfum Shampoo & Conditioner c1986

L'Envie Parfum Shampoos & Conditioners debuted in 1986. This was a line of highly perfumed hair products that imitated the best selling perfumes of the era.

"For soft; sensual hair that smells as beautiful as it looks."

It't rich, luxurious formula contained soft emollients to soothe the hair and make it sensually soft to the touch. What it did not contain, was any of the famous perfumes it was imitating.

• Ember Musk: a fragrance similar to classic musk perfumes
• Cypress: a fragrance similar to White Linen
• Legace: a fragrance similar to Vanderbilt
• Siam: a fragrance similar to Opium
• Capture: a fragrance similar to Obsession
• Milano: a fragrance similar to Giorgio

These hair products were not manufactured, licensed nor endorsed by any of the following brands: Giorgio Beverly Hills, Estee Lauder, Gloria Vanderbilt, Calvin Klein, Yves Saint Laurent and Coty.

L'Envie was manufactured by S.C. Johnson.

By 1988, the line was dropped as it did not do as well as expected. It was said by fragrance consultant, Barry Jacobs, that women tend to think of perfume as sticky and oily, and this is something you'd expect a shampoo to wash out of your hair. The line did not include scents for men and excluded women who hated fragrance in their shampoos.  "We are close to dumping the line," said one buyer a a leading national drugstore chain.

It was also plagued by legal problems and flawed marketing.

The moment that L'Envie hit retail shelves, the threats from major perfume companies started rolling in. Cosmair, Inc, owner of the Vanderbilt trademark filed suit. Estee Lauder, Inc, the holder of the White Linen trademark, also considered joining in on the lawsuit. Cosmair originally demanded that the 1 million products already on the shelves be pulled.

In 1986, Cosmair had won a temporary restraining order against SC Johnson that prohibited the distribution of its new L'Envie shampoos and conditioners. L'Envie, produced by the Agree shampoo and conditioner line, printed Cosmair's Vanderbilt fragrance title on the containers. Cosmair declared trademark infringement and unfair competition as reasons for the court order. Although SC Johnson claimed to be solely in the shampoo and conditioner selling business, Cosmair charged that its marketing strategies copied those of "knockoff-fragrance marketers" by printing misleading material on the wrapping.

Sued by Cosmair Inc., SC Johnson settled out of court in 1987 by agreeing to add disclaimer stickers to the front of it's bottles. The settlement included an order for a more prominent disclaimer on the package. A temporary restraining order issued in federal court required ads to carry a similar disclaimer. The results satisfied the other fragrance companies.

CLICK HERE TO FIND L'ENVIE SHAMPOO

CLICK HERE TO FIND L'ENVIE CONDITIONER

Privilege by Parfums Privilege c1986

Privilege by Parfums Privilege, launched in 1986, emerged during a time marked by a growing emphasis on luxury and individualism. This era was characterized by a fascination with opulence and exclusivity, reflecting a broader cultural shift towards celebrating personal success and sophisticated tastes. In the mid-1980s, the fragrance industry was embracing bold, distinctive scents that conveyed a sense of grandeur and personal distinction, making Privilege a fitting embodiment of these trends.

The word "privilege" itself evokes images of exclusivity and elite status. It conjures a sense of being part of a select group who are afforded rare and exceptional experiences. In the context of Privilege by Parfums Privilege, the term suggests a perfume that is not just a fragrance but a symbol of high status and refined taste. The press materials highlight this sentiment, portraying the scent as the essence of "glamorous elegance" and "splendor," reserved for those who possess an innate sense of style and sophistication. This portrayal aligns with the perfume's positioning as something extraordinarily special and coveted.

The fragrance is described as being "so rare, so subtly sumptuous, so refinedly elegant" that it is available only in limited quantities, intended for "the fortunate few." This language reinforces the notion of Privilege as an exclusive luxury, designed for those who appreciate the finest things in life. The emotion evoked is one of aspiration and admiration, suggesting that to wear Privilege is to embody a certain elite status and to experience a level of sophistication reserved for a select group. The perfume, thus, not only represents a scent but also a lifestyle and an ideal of exclusivity and refinement.

Diable au Corps by Donatella Pecci Blunt c1990

"Le Diable au Corps" by Donatella Pecci Blunt, launched in 1990 in association with Diana da Silva Cosmétiques, entered the market during a period when the fragrance industry was characterized by a blend of opulence and innovation. The late 1980s and early 1990s saw a surge in powerful, statement-making scents, often classified as oriental or floral oriental, which were designed to leave a lasting impression. Fragrances like Calvin Klein's Obsession (1985) and Yves Saint Laurent's Opium (1977) exemplified this trend, with rich, exotic compositions that evoked a sense of mystery and allure.

"Le Diable au Corps," classified as a floral oriental fragrance for women, fit well within this prevailing trend, yet it also carried a unique narrative. The name "Le Diable au Corps," which translates from French to "Devil in the Flesh," is derived from Raymond Radiguet's autobiographical novel of the same name. The novel, published in 1923, recounts a scandalous affair between a sixteen-year-old boy and an older married woman during World War I, written with raw emotion and a sense of youthful defiance. Radiguet, a protégé and lover of Jean Cocteau, infused his work with a provocative edge that challenged societal norms.

The name "Le Diable au Corps" evokes images of forbidden passion and intense, almost rebellious desire. For women in the early 1990s, this name could resonate deeply, reflecting a period of evolving attitudes towards sexuality and independence. The phrase "Devil in the Flesh" conjures a sense of allure and danger, suggesting a perfume that embodies both sensuality and strength.

During this era, films often explored themes of romance, scandal, and the complexities of human relationships, mirroring the emotional depth found in Radiguet's novel. Titles like "Dangerous Liaisons" (1988) and "The Lover" (1992) showcased passionate, tumultuous affairs, aligning well with the seductive narrative of "Le Diable au Corps."

DK Men by Donna Karan c1994

DK Men by Donna Karan: launched in 1994. Created by Jean-Claude Delville.

This fragrance is also known as DK Men Fuel for Men or DK Men Leaded.

Monsieur de Rauch by Madeleine de Rauch c1950

Monsieur de Rauch, a fragrance attributed to the fashion house of Madeleine de Rauch, was launched in either 1950 or 1966, according to the Dictionnaire des Parfums (1972-1973 edition). Madeleine de Rauch, the creative force behind the brand, was a French couturier who ventured into the world of perfumery, much like many designers of the time. Her haute couture house was known for its elegance and understated luxury, which naturally carried over into her fragrances. As a designer, she sought to reflect her refined aesthetic not only in fashion but also in scent, offering perfumes that resonated with sophistication and class.

The choice of the name "Monsieur de Rauch" appears to be deeply rooted in a sense of heritage and prestige. In French, "Monsieur" simply means "Mister," a formal title of respect for men, while "de Rauch" refers to the designer's family name. In terms of pronunciation, "Monsieur de Rauch" would sound like Muh-syuh duh Rosh, with the final "ch" pronounced like the “sh” in “shush.” The use of "Monsieur" in the fragrance's name evokes an image of an elegant, well-groomed gentleman, possibly one of aristocratic lineage or refined taste. The name conjures feelings of respect, formality, and timeless masculinity, suggesting that this fragrance was intended for a man who values sophistication and carries himself with dignity.

For men of the period in which Monsieur de Rauch was released, the fragrance likely conveyed a sense of identity. During the mid-20th century, men's fragrances were often marketed to reflect ideals of strength, maturity, and refinement. A scent named "Monsieur de Rauch" would appeal to the gentleman who wished to exude a sense of command and elegance. The name suggests not only a fragrance but an entire persona — someone who appreciates the finer things in life, perhaps reminiscent of a French aristocrat or a man of business and social standing.

When translated into a scent, "Monsieur de Rauch" was created by master perfumers Raymond Chaillan and Jacques Bercia. It is described as a refreshing yet bittersweet citrus-woody fragrance, with prominent woody and lemony notes. This blend suggests a balance of sharpness and warmth, with the citrus offering a clean, invigorating opening, and the woods adding a depth that speaks to masculinity and stability. The bittersweet quality points to a sense of maturity, making the fragrance suitable for a man who is confident and complex.

Parfums de Callot Soeurs

Callot Soeurs, a distinguished couture house founded in 1895, began its journey on the elegant Avenue Matignon in Paris. The house was established by the Callot sisters: Marie Callot Gerber, Marthe Callot Bertrand, and Regine Callot Chantrelle. Their early success was anchored in their exquisite use of antique laces, ribbons, and textiles, a hallmark of their sophisticated designs. This unique approach set them apart in the fashion world, capturing the essence of timeless elegance and meticulous craftsmanship.

Incanto by Simonetta c1955

Incanto by Simonetta: launched in 1955. Perfume created by Simonetta Visconti (Donna Simonetta Fabiani), an Italian fashion designer.

Tatiana by Diane von Furstenberg c1975

Tatiana by Diane von Fürstenberg: launched in 1974. The fragrance was named after her daughter and produced by the perfumers at Roure.

Verlayne & Verlaine Perfumes

Verlayne of Paris was established by Charles Jules Emile Charbaut in 1944, at 9 rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré, a prestigious address in the heart of Paris. This location, renowned for its luxury boutiques and high-end fashion houses, provided an ideal setting for a perfume house aiming to make a mark in the world of haute parfumerie. Charbaut's venture into the perfume industry under the name Verlayne was closely associated with Verlaine et Verlayne, suggesting a deliberate nod to the famed poet Paul Verlaine, known for his evocative and romantic verse. This connection imbued the brand with an air of poetic elegance and cultural refinement.

The establishment of Verlayne during the tumultuous period of World War II was a bold move, reflecting Charbaut's vision and resilience. The choice of name and the literary association also hinted at a desire to bring beauty and artistic expression to a world overshadowed by conflict. The rue du Faubourg-Saint-Honoré address added to the brand's allure, positioning Verlayne among the elite of Parisian society and attracting a clientele that appreciated sophistication and exclusivity.

Verlayne's perfumes were likely characterized by rich and complex compositions, echoing the intricate and emotional layers of Verlaine's poetry. The brand's offerings would have aimed to capture the essence of Parisian chic and romance, providing an olfactory escape into a world of elegance and sensory pleasure. Through Verlayne, Charbaut sought to create a lasting legacy in the perfume industry, intertwining the artistry of scent with the cultural heritage of one of France's most beloved poets.

Antique Wigs and their Accoutrements

The word wig is short for Periwig and first appeared in the English language around 1675.

Wigs have been worn throughout history and not just as a fashion item. Looking through history we can see that wigs were worn to demonstrate wealth and importance as well as having a more practical purpose as protection against cold and rain. Wigs were even worn in wars to impress the enemy!

Paradoxe by Pierre Cardin c1983

Paradoxe by Pierre Cardin: launched in 1983 in Europe, then USA. Created by Roure Perfumers. Marketed in USA by Jacqueline Cochran, Inc.

City of Paris

City of Paris was a fanciful name of a a department store of Paris, San Francisco, Ca. that opened its doors in 1850. Their flagship store in San Francisco was built in 1896 and rebuilt in 1909, probably due to damage from the 1906 earthquake.

Alphonse Rallet

Alphonse Rallet (1819-1894) established his perfumery company Rallet in Moscow in 1843. Rallet's perfumes, soaps and cosmetics were so popular that by 1900, he was the most distinguished of all perfumeries in Russia. His excellence in quality made him the official supplier to the royal courts of Russia, Romania, Serbia, Persia and Montenegro.


After the death of Alphonse Rallet, the company was purchased by Chiris, a raw material supplier from Grasse, France. When the Russian Revolution took over and Rallet's Russian assets were nationalized in 1917, the company was reestablished in France. It was here in 1920, that the famous perfumer and technical director, Ernest Beaux , created several perfumes for Gabrielle Chanel, most notably Chanel No. 5, which remains a best seller almost 100 years after its creation in 1921.

"A. Ралле и Ко."

Lasso by Jean Patou c1956

Lasso by Jean Patou: launched 1956 , advertised as "your secret weapon." It was created by Guy Robert.

Trigere by Pauline Trigere c1973

Trigère by Pauline Trigère: launched in 1973.

Parfumerie Miga

Parfumerie Miga was established by Villy Frey in 1925 at 99 Zweierstrasse, Zurich. The company specialized in buying bankrupt stock and eventually expanded its operations to Cuba. In 1940, Parfumerie Miga was acquired by Drialys and became a subsidiary under their ownership.

Villy Frey's name was registered in France on December 18, 1934, with registration numbers 234511 and 88829 on March 5, 1935. The registration details indicate his involvement in the manufacture and trade of cosmetics of all kinds. Additionally, Villy Frey was also registered in Switzerland on December 5, 1934, under a yet undisclosed registration number.

This information highlights the early history and business activities of Parfumerie Miga and its founder Villy Frey during the early to mid-20th century.

L'Insolent by Charles Jourdan c1986

L'Insolent by Charles Jourdan: launched in 1986. Created by Max Gavarry of IFF.

Les Parfums d’Argelys

Les Parfums d’Argelys of Paris.

Balahe by Leonard c1983

Balahé by Leonard was introduced in 1983, a period marked by a notable shift in the fragrance industry. During the early 1980s, the market began to embrace more complex and opulent fragrances. This era saw the rise of spicy floral orientals, which combined rich, exotic spices with luxurious floral elements and deep, sensual bases. Fragrances of this time often featured bold, assertive compositions that reflected the extravagant and dynamic style of the 1980s.

Balahé, classified as a spicy floral oriental fragrance, fit perfectly within these trends. It offered a blend of vibrant spices with lush floral notes and a warm, sensual base, embodying the era’s fascination with sophisticated and exotic scents. While it followed the general trend of the time, Balahé distinguished itself with its unique composition, carefully crafted to balance spicy and floral elements with a rich oriental base, making it a notable example of the period’s olfactory preferences.

The name "Balahé" chosen by Parfums Leonard adds a layer of exotic intrigue to the fragrance. The term "Balahé" does not have a direct meaning in widely spoken languages, but it evokes a sense of mystery and allure. It appears to be derived from a combination of phonetic elements that suggest an exotic or foreign origin. The name itself seems to conjure images of faraway places and intriguing cultures, fitting well with the fragrance’s spicy oriental theme.

In terms of imagery and emotion, "Balahé" evokes a sense of luxury and sophistication. It brings to mind a rich, opulent world where spices and florals mingle in a grand, elegant setting. The name suggests an exotic escape, adding an element of fantasy and allure to the fragrance. It implies a journey to an opulent realm where the senses are tantalized by the complexities of spicy and floral notes.

Filly by Capucci c1983

Filly by Capucci, launched in 1983, came from the creative vision of Roberto Capucci, an Italian fashion designer renowned for his architectural approach to fashion. Capucci’s designs were celebrated for their sculptural quality, intricate pleats, and vibrant use of color, often compared to modern art. His choice to create a fragrance like Filly reflects his fascination with elegance, femininity, and movement, elements central to his work in couture. The name "Filly" comes from the English word for a young female horse, pronounced "fil-ee." It evokes imagery of youthful grace, vitality, and untamed spirit—a metaphor for the type of woman who might wear this fragrance.

The word filly conjures emotions of freedom, energy, and an adventurous spirit. It captures the image of a young woman who is confident, playful, and full of life, much like the fashion Capucci was known for creating. In the context of the early 1980s, a perfume called Filly would have resonated with women seeking to express their independence and modern femininity. It was an era of growing empowerment for women in many spheres, including fashion, where strong, individualistic designs were taking center stage. Filly, with its lively name, would have appealed to women who wanted to embrace a youthful, dynamic identity without sacrificing sophistication.

Interpreting the word "Filly" in scent, the fragrance captures the essence of spirited elegance, much like a graceful, youthful horse bounding freely but with poise. As a fruity floral woody chypre, it starts off sweet and fresh, with hints of juicy fruits that evoke brightness and vibrancy. The fragrance then transitions to a lush floral heart, where classic and heady blooms intertwine to represent the romantic, feminine side of this youthful spirit. The chypre base, with its woody and mossy notes, brings a sense of maturity and depth, grounding the exuberance of the top notes with an air of sophistication.

Primitif by Max Factor c1956

Primitif by Max Factor: launched in 1956.

Jennings Perfumery Company

The Jennings Perfumery Co., established in 1872 by Charles W. Jennings, was a significant player in the perfume and flavoring industry based in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Located at 19-21 So Ottawa Street, the company operated from a strategic position in the city, which was known for its burgeoning industrial sector during that era. Jennings, a visionary in the field, laid the foundation for a business that would grow and evolve over the decades.

In 1899, a pivotal change occurred in the company’s structure. As reported in Interstate Druggist, the firm known as Jennings & Smith of Grand Rapids dissolved, with Charles W. Jennings continuing the business under a new name: the Jennings Flavoring Extract Co. This rebranding marked a shift in focus towards manufacturing flavors and perfumes, consolidating Jennings's reputation in these specialized fields.

Valentino by Valentino c1977

Valentino by Valentino: launched in 1977. Created by Givaudan-Roure. Originally launched in Europe by an Italian licensee that went bankrupt, it's popularity began to fade before it even reached American shores. The launch party was at the Paris Opera in 1978, followed by a gala dinner at Maxim's. The fragrance was promoted and marketed by Princess Ira von Furstenberg, who worked as a publicist in 1980.

Blazer by Anne Klein c1974

Blazer by Anne Klein: launched in 1974 in association with Helena Rubinstein, who created the fragrance for the designer.

When Blazer was created, Anne Klein was best known for structured ready-to-wear apparel, as epitomized by her blazer which became world famous, fashion for the modern woman of the early 1970s. Blazer was created to complement clothes, specifically Anne Klein designs. The Blazer woman, the perfume company said, is active and sports-oriented. She wears classic separates and is casual yet chic.