Arpege by Lanvin c1927

When Jeanne Lanvin launched Arpège in 1927, she chose a name that resonated deeply with her personal life and artistic vision. The word "Arpège," derived from the French term for "arpeggio," refers to the musical technique of playing notes in succession rather than simultaneously, creating a graceful cascade of sound. Pronounced "ahr-PEZH" (with a soft "zh" sound, like the French word "beige"), the name evokes images of harmonious beauty and lyrical refinement. It was a fitting tribute to Lanvin's only daughter, Marie-Blanche, a talented pianist and the muse behind much of her work. The name Arpège captures the essence of music, art, and maternal devotion, reflecting Lanvin’s desire to create a fragrance as timeless and elegant as a masterful melody.

In 1927, the world was in the midst of the Roaring Twenties, a decade defined by exuberance, modernity, and cultural transformation. Known as the Art Deco period, this era celebrated bold, geometric designs, lavish ornamentation, and the fusion of art and craftsmanship. Women were embracing newfound freedoms: short haircuts, flapper dresses, and an unapologetic sense of sophistication. Perfume became a powerful accessory, reflecting a woman's identity and the luxurious glamour of the time. Against this backdrop, Arpège stood out as a beacon of refinement, offering an olfactory representation of the elegance and artistry that Lanvin epitomized.

For women of the time, a perfume named Arpège likely carried an air of sophistication and cultural cachet. The name evoked images of concert halls, grand pianos, and the artistry of classical music—a connection that spoke to the intellectual and artistic aspirations of the modern woman. Wearing Arpège would have felt like stepping into a world of cultivated elegance, a reminder of the beauty that could be found in both art and life.

In scent, the concept of "Arpège" is interpreted as a harmonious composition, with each note playing its part in a symphonic arrangement. Created by André Fraysse and Paul Vacher, Arpège utilized over 60 natural ingredients to craft a fragrance as complex and nuanced as a musical masterpiece. The opening is an exaltation of aldehydes, bright and sparkling, paired with the crisp citrus of bergamot and the honeyed sweetness of neroli. These notes create an airy, radiant overture that sets the stage for the heart of the fragrance.

Lanvin Flacons Tiges - Tester Flacons

Lanvin Flacons Tiges - Tester Set holding::

• Mon Peche (My Sin)
• Crescendo
• Arpege
• Pretexte
• Scandal
• Rumeur

Dates to the 1940s-1950s.

Niv Nal by Lanvin c1925

Niv Nal by Lanvin, launched in 1925, represents an intriguing moment in the history of perfumery. As Lanvin's first fragrance, it was introduced during a dynamic period in the perfume industry, marked by a shift towards modernity and innovation. The mid-1920s were characterized by the post-World War I cultural renaissance, with an emphasis on elegance, sophistication, and artistic expression. This era saw the rise of Art Deco, a movement known for its geometric designs, opulent materials, and bold aesthetics, which influenced various aspects of society, including fashion and fragrance.

In the context of other fragrances available at the time, Niv Nal was a significant entry. The early 1920s were a period of experimentation in perfumery, with many houses exploring new compositions and ingredients. Iconic fragrances like Chanel No. 5 (1921) had already made their mark with groundbreaking scent profiles that challenged traditional norms. Niv Nal, created by Madame Marie Zede, contributed to this wave of innovation with its distinct character, aligning with the trends of the era while also offering a unique identity.

The name "Niv Nal" stands out due to its unusual and exotic appearance, but it is essentially "Lanvin" spelled backward. This creative twist on the brand's name was likely intended to intrigue and captivate potential consumers, adding an element of mystery and allure to the perfume. The reversed name not only highlighted the fragrance's association with Lanvin but also gave it an air of exclusivity and sophistication.

Irise by Lanvin c1923

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.