Irise by Lanvin, launched in 1923, was introduced during a transformative period in the fragrance industry. The early 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, were characterized by a sense of liberation and modernity following World War I. This era was marked by a cultural revolution that embraced new fashion trends, artistic movements like Art Deco, and a renewed sense of sophistication and glamour.
During this time, the perfume industry was experimenting with innovative compositions and ingredients, moving away from the more traditional, floral-centric fragrances of the previous century. Iconic fragrances such as Chanel No. 5 (1921) and Guerlain's Shalimar (1925) were leading the way with their complex, multi-faceted scent profiles. Irise, with its focus on an iris and violet accord, fit within the broader trend of exploring more nuanced and refined olfactory experiences.
The choice of the name "Irise" for Lanvin’s fragrance was particularly evocative. Derived from the French word for "iridescent," the name suggests a fragrance that embodies the shifting, luminous qualities of the iris flower. This term implies a scent that possesses subtle, changing facets, much like the iridescence of a pearl or a rainbow. It evokes an image of elegance and complexity, aligning with the era’s fascination with sophisticated and artistic design.
