A Rose Is A Rose Is A Rose c1974

A Rose Is A Rose Is A Rose by Houbigant: launched in 1974. The name is inspired by a line in Gertrude Stein's famous poem, "Sacred Emily." the feeling is pure romance. Imagine all the velvet textures and sunlit colors of one perfect, full yellow rose.

Bain Nouveau by Houbigant c1966

Bain Nouveau by Houbigant: launched in 1966.

Lutece by Houbigant c1984

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

Quelques Fleurs by Houbigant c1912

Quelques Fleurs by Houbigant, launched in 1912, is a fragrance that immediately conjures an image of a garden in full bloom—a celebration of nature’s most beautiful flowers, elegantly arranged. The name itself, Quelques Fleurs, is French and translates to "Some Flowers" in English (pronounced kel-ku flur). The simplicity of this phrase evokes a sense of restraint and refinement. It suggests a collection of blooms, not in an extravagant, overwhelming way, but in a measured, delicate, and harmonious arrangement, which speaks to the elegance and grace of the early 20th century. The word "fleurs" (flowers) stirs images of soft, fragrant petals, and "quelques" (some) brings to mind a more restrained, less ostentatious vision, one of modest beauty, making it a perfect choice for a fragrance that aimed to convey timeless femininity.

The launch of Quelques Fleurs came during a period known as the Belle Époque, a time of cultural flourishing in Europe, particularly in France. This era was characterized by a love for beauty, art, and refinement. The fashions of the time were marked by elegant, structured silhouettes, with corsets, long skirts, and lavish but tasteful fabrics. Women of the Belle Époque, especially in the upper classes, would have related to a perfume called Quelques Fleurs as a reflection of their sophisticated, cultured tastes. This was an era in which perfumes were worn to complement the wearer's identity—a way to express one's status, taste, and refinement. The soft, elegant floral blend of Quelques Fleurs would have felt appropriate for the era, as it reflected the delicate femininity and grace that were highly prized in society at the time.

Quelques Fleurs was also launched just before World War I, and while the war itself would shift society dramatically, the perfume encapsulated a moment of peace, beauty, and optimism. In a time when the world was on the cusp of dramatic change, a fragrance that celebrated nature’s simplest yet most profound beauty must have felt like an antidote to the darker days ahead.

Essence Rare by Houbigant c1928

The launch of Essence Rare in 1928 marked an intriguing era in the world of perfumery. This period, known as the Roaring Twenties or the Jazz Age, was a time of significant cultural shifts, artistic experimentation, and social liberation.

In the aftermath of World War I, there was a palpable sense of euphoria and newfound freedom. This atmosphere of liberation influenced various aspects of society, including fashion, music, and, of course, fragrance.

Perfume became more than just a pleasant scent; it became a symbol of luxury, sophistication, and individual expression. Chanel No. 5, introduced by Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel in 1921, had already revolutionized the fragrance industry with its bold use of aldehydes and modern, abstract composition.

Houbigant's decision to launch Essence Rare as a competitor to Chanel No. 5 reflects the intense competition and innovation within the perfume market during this time. Aldehydic fragrances, characterized by their effervescent, sparkling quality, were particularly popular, embodying the spirit of the era with their glamorous and extravagant allure.

Paul Schving, the Roure-Bertrand chemist credited with creating Essence Rare, likely drew inspiration from the zeitgeist of the 1920s, blending traditional floral notes with the cutting-edge use of aldehydes to craft a fragrance that captured the essence of the era.

Overall, the launch of Essence Rare in 1928 occurred within a vibrant and dynamic period in history, characterized by rapid societal change, artistic innovation, and fierce competition in the world of perfumery.

Chantilly by Houbigant c1940

The launch of Chantilly by Houbigant in 1940 was a significant moment in the history of perfumery, occurring during a period marked by both tumultuous global events and cultural shifts. The choice to name the fragrance after Chantilly laces, renowned for their delicate beauty and intricate craftsmanship, reflects the broader artistic influences and inspirations of the time.

In the early 1940s, the world was in the midst of World War II, a time characterized by hardship, uncertainty, and a longing for beauty and elegance amidst the chaos. Perfume, as a form of olfactory art, offered a means of escape and expression during this tumultuous era. Fragrances like Chantilly aimed to transport wearers to a realm of luxury and sophistication, providing a reprieve from the harsh realities of wartime existence.

Chantilly lace, originating from the town of Chantilly in France, held a special allure due to its intricate designs and fine craftsmanship. These delicate laces were often associated with femininity, romance, and refinement, making them a fitting source of inspiration for a perfume. By evoking the imagery and sensory experience of Chantilly lace, the fragrance sought to capture the essence of elegance and allure, appealing to women who desired a touch of luxury and sophistication in their lives.