Mon Boudoir by Houbigant c1918

Mon Boudoir by Houbigant: launched in 1918. Created by Robert Bienaime.

Indian Summer c1972

Indian Summer by Houbigant: launched in 1972. The fragrance was available in cologne and dusting powder.


It is classified as a green floriental fragrance for women with dry, herbal and spicy facets.

• Top notes: aldehydes, bergamot, narcissus, galbanum
• Middle notes: carnation, lavender, cinnamon, cloves
• Base notes: sandalwood, oak moss, vetiver, ambergris, patchouli, musk, vanilla

Discontinued, date unknown.

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Gardenia Concentre by Houbigant c1935

Gardenia Concentre by Houbigant: launched in 1935. This name was also used by Cheramy, a division of Houbigant.

So what does it smell like? It was a strong, long lasting gardenia scent, with a slight mushroomy odor.

Discontinued, date unknown. Still being sold in 1941.

This same bottle was used for Houbigant's Etude perfume from 1931. Photos by ebay seller vintageglass

The Baccarat crystal bottle rests on a silver plated base and is encased in a box of varnished wood.

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Both the glass stopper, with the engraved Houbigant "H",and the bottle, have an engraved matching number. 

The base of the bottle is also acid-etched "FRANCE".

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The bottle is in superb condition with virtually no flaws that I can find. 

It has a silver metal collar around the stopper opening. 

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The silver metal cap screws onto the collar, over the stopper.

A small paper flower label on one side of the bottle reads: GARDENIA concentre HOUBIGANT.

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The presentation base is metal, with wood on the bottom (& stamped MADE IN FRANCE)

The handmade wood cover is likewise in beautiful condition; highly varnished, with no marks.

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The bottle is 1 3/8" (3.6 cm) square & 3 5/8" (9.4 cm) tall.

Lutece by Houbigant c1984

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

Esprit de Noel by Houbigant c1968

Esprit de Noel by Houbigant: launched in 1968. “Esprit de Noel” means “spirit of Christmas.” It was available as eau de cologne and as a room essence. You would add a few drops of the room essence to a light bulb to fragrance your room with a holiday air.

Premier Mai by Houbigant c1928

Premier Mai by Houbigant: launched in 1908.

Au Matin by Houbigant c1923

Au Matin by Houbigant: launched in 1923, in USA in 1929. Created by Paul Schving and Raymond Kling.

Le Parfum Ideal by Houbigant c1896

In 1896, Houbigant's in-house perfumer, Paul Parquet, crafted Le Parfum Idéal, a fragrance that quietly entered the perfumery scene with its exquisite blend of notes. At the time, newspaper advertisements subtly introduced this olfactory creation to discerning consumers, hinting at its allure and sophistication. However, it wasn't until the grand stage of the 1900 World's Fair in Paris that Le Parfum Idéal truly made its debut amidst a wave of anticipation and acclaim.

The 1900 World's Fair marked a pivotal moment for Houbigant, where they unveiled not only Le Parfum Idéal but also another captivating fragrance, Coeur de Jeanette. Amidst the splendor of the fairgrounds, these perfumes captivated the public with their luxurious aromas and elegant presentations. Le Parfum Idéal, with its carefully balanced composition and timeless appeal, stood out as a testament to Houbigant's dedication to perfumery artistry.

Newspaper accounts from the period vividly recount the atmosphere of excitement surrounding these fragrances, describing how they captured the essence of Parisian elegance and became synonymous with the refined tastes of the Belle Époque. Le Parfum Idéal, in particular, garnered praise for its harmonious blend of floral, citrus, and woody notes, evoking a sense of sophistication and allure that resonated with the fashionable elite of the era.

As the fair drew to a close, Le Parfum Idéal had firmly established itself as a hallmark of Houbigant's commitment to excellence in perfumery, setting a standard that would endure throughout the decades, continuing to charm and inspire fragrance connoisseurs worldwide.

The iconic label adorning Le Parfum Idéal depicts a Gibson Girl delicately inhaling the fragrance of a flower, embodying the epitome of late 19th-century elegance and sophistication. Crafted from gilded foil and intricately embossed, the label exudes a sense of luxury and attention to detail, reflecting the perfume's status as a pinnacle of Houbigant's artistry. This ornate design not only enhances the visual appeal of the bottle but also serves as a visual testament to the perfume's allure, capturing the essence of its floral and aromatic notes in a captivating and timeless manner. As a symbol of refined taste and aesthetic refinement, the label of Le Parfum Idéal continues to evoke the elegance and charm of its era, resonating with collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty of both fragrance and design.

Ciao by Houbigant c1980

Ciao by Houbigant: launched in 1980. Created by Givaudan Perfumers. Pronounced "chow."

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.