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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Aperçu by Houbigant c1984

Aperçu by Houbigant: originally launched in 1984. The name means "insight" in French.

In 1984, the powers that be at Houbigant were looking for a name for a new fragrance, two names were chosen, Aperçu and Lutece. At the time, Aperçu was not available for registration and the selection of Lutece was finalized.  A lawsuit ensued as there was a restaurant named Lutece who objected to Houbigant's use of the word Lutece as a fragrance name. However, Houbigant did win the chance to use the name Lutece as a fragrance line. When Aperçu was finally available to be used by Houbigant, it was launched in 2000.

Bain Nouveau by Houbigant c1966

Bain Nouveau by Houbigant: launched in 1966.

Quelques Roses by Houbigant c1997

Quelques Roses by Houbigant: launched in 1997 in association with Claire Fragrance (Parfums Claire).

Demi-Jour c1987

Demi-Jour by Houbigant: launched in 1987. The perfume was a resurrection of Houbigant's 1933 perfume of the same name. I am not sure if the notes are similar though.

Honeysuckle by Houbigant c1938

Honeysuckle by Houbigant: launched in 1938.

Available in eau de toilette, eau florale and dusting powder.

So what does it smell like? It is a honeysuckle soliflore perfume.

Discontinued, probably sometime in the late 1940s-early 1950s.

photo by ebay seller damosel

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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.

Moskari by Houbigant c1887

The fragrance "Moskari" by Houbigant, launched around 1887, holds a significant place in the history of perfumery. This era marked the peak of Houbigant's influence, renowned for creating elegant and sophisticated scents that captivated the senses. "Moskari," with its alluring name, evokes a sense of exoticism and refinement that was characteristic of late 19th and early 20th-century perfumes. This period was a golden age for Houbigant, whose creations were synonymous with luxury and taste.

The name "Moskari" most likely refers to the grape hyacinth, known as muscari. The muscari flower, with its delicate, fragrant blooms, embodies the same elegance and charm that Houbigant sought to capture in their fragrances. The name suggests a connection to nature's beauty and the subtle, intricate scents that were highly prized in perfumery. Interestingly, a closer examination reveals a potential cultural mistranslation that adds another layer of depth to the fragrance's story.

In Hindi, "muscari" (मुस्कारि) translates to "smile," a meaning that resonates deeply with the romantic and emotive nature often associated with perfumes of this era. This interpretation suggests that "Moskari" was designed not just to evoke sensory delight but also to capture the essence of joy and allure. The notion of a smile aligns beautifully with the fragrance's purpose, aiming to bring happiness and a touch of enchantment to those who wear it. This blend of linguistic nuances and cultural interpretations enriches the narrative of "Moskari," highlighting its timeless appeal.

As the fragrance transitioned to be sold under the Houbigant-owned Cheramy label post-1923, it adapted to changing tastes while maintaining its legacy. This evolution underscores Houbigant's ability to blend tradition with innovation, ensuring that "Moskari," whether under its original name or as part of the Cheramy line, continued to enchant perfume aficionados for generations to come. The fragrance's enduring popularity is a testament to its captivating essence and the masterful craftsmanship of Houbigant, who succeeded in creating a scent that transcends time and cultural boundaries.

photo by Bennett

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 to a light bulb to fragrance your room with a holiday air.

Premier Mai by Houbigant c1928

Premier Mai by Houbigant: launched in 1908.

Quelques Violettes by Houbigant c1914

Quelques Violettes was originally launched way back in the late 1700s, when it was reportedly a favorite of Queen Marie-Antoinette. Houbigant was her personal perfumer. It was discontinued for decades before being reformulated and relaunched in 1914, but this too was discontinued in the 1960s.


"HOUBIGANT QUELQUES VIOLETTES —a delicate combination of violet scents — with the distinctively “woody" odor. A perfume of wistful charm and beauty that yields forth the inmost nature of the violet."

Houbigant's Eau Florale Concentree c1937

Houbigant's Eau Florale Concentree was introduced in 1937. It was an extra concentrated toilet water, probably eau de parfum type strength. The scents were: Honeysuckle, Lemon Verbena, Quelques Fleurs, Gardenia, Sweet Pea, Magnolia. Wistaria, Quelques Violettes, Ideal, Presence, Cyclamen

Hearsts Internation, 1937:

"Eau Florale Concentree, the new version of perfume, is the first thing you put on after your bath — an exquisite underthing that clothes you in ... Priced for liberal daily use, yet available in the most prized Houbigant odeurs: CONCENTREE."

The New Yorker, 1938:

"EAU FLORALE CONCENTREE is a lovely new fashion in perfuming that you can easily afford. For Houbigant now presents its finest odeurs in this new version of perfume . . . for lavish, all-over-body use ... at ONE DOLLAR."

Hearsts International, 1938:

"Eau Florale -Concentree to be Applied Directly to the skin! You pat it on. Effective your bath, before you dress, and clothe yourself in subtle fragrance. It is light enough for lavish use from tip to toe, lingering enough to last from dawn to dark!"

Drug and Cosmetic Industry, 1940:

"Houbigant adds to the increasing interest in romantic florals this year with a true-to-the-flower reproduction of Wistaria in Eau Florale Concentree. This is a light, exquisite fragrance."

 

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."

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.