Cross Country c1925

Launched in 1925, Lanvin's "Cross Country" emerged in a vibrant era for fragrances, where the market was burgeoning with diverse and innovative scents. During the 1920s, the perfume industry was rich with the influence of Art Deco aesthetics and a growing fascination with exotic and daring combinations. The period saw a trend towards bold, memorable fragrances that could encapsulate the zeitgeist of modernity and sophistication.

"Cross Country" by Lanvin, created by Madame Marie Zéde, was distinctive within this context. The name itself, "Cross Country," evoked a sense of adventure and exploration, reflecting the expanding horizons of the 1920s when travel and global experiences were becoming increasingly accessible. Unlike many fragrances of the time that were named with French elegance or sophistication in mind, Lanvin's choice to use an English name marked a deliberate nod to the growing American market and international audience. This choice not only broadened the perfume's appeal but also aligned with the era's increasing cultural exchange.

The phrase "Cross Country" suggests a journey or voyage across diverse landscapes, which could be interpreted as a metaphor for the fragrance's ability to evoke different facets of a woman's personality or mood. This name might have resonated with women of the time as a symbol of freedom and the spirit of adventure, mirroring their own aspirations for new experiences and exploration. It also invoked images of scenic travels and the thrill of discovering new places, aligning with the modern, adventurous ethos of the 1920s.

In the realm of perfume, "Cross Country" would have been seen as a fragrance that encapsulated the dynamic spirit of the age—bold, versatile, and in tune with the expanding global influences of the time. It would have appealed to women seeking a scent that was both sophisticated and evocative of a broader world, resonating with the era's fascination with travel and cultural discovery.

Lanvin Perfume Tester Racks

Lanvin Perfumes Shown in a 1947 Ad

Ads for Arpege, My Sin and Scandal

Géranium D'Espagne by Lanvin c1925

In 1925, when Géranium D'Espagne was launched, the world of perfumery was flourishing with innovation and creativity. The Roaring Twenties, characterized by economic prosperity, cultural dynamism, and a break from traditional norms, provided fertile ground for the creation of new and daring fragrances. This era saw the emergence of perfumes that were bolder and more complex, reflecting the liberated spirit of the time. Houses like Chanel, with its groundbreaking No. 5, and Guerlain, with its opulent Shalimar, were setting trends with their sophisticated compositions.

Géranium D'Espagne entered this vibrant market with its fresh, spicy floral profile. It stood out with dominant notes of geranium and rose, offering a unique blend of floral freshness and spicy warmth. While many fragrances of the time were exploring the realms of aldehydes and exotic oriental notes, Géranium D'Espagne embraced a more botanical and naturalistic approach, celebrating the essence of its key floral ingredients.

The name Géranium D'Espagne is French, translating to "Geranium of Spain" in English. This name choice reflects a sense of exoticism and romanticism associated with Spain, a country known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and beautiful landscapes. By naming the perfume after Spanish geraniums, Parfums Lanvin likely aimed to evoke the warm, sunny climate of Spain, with its picturesque gardens and aromatic plants.

The use of "D'Espagne" (of Spain) imbues the fragrance with a sense of place and origin, suggesting a connection to the natural beauty and traditional floral scents of Spain. This choice would appeal to women seeking a touch of the exotic and the allure of far-off places, resonating with the wanderlust and adventurous spirit of the 1920s.

Vintage 1950s-1960s Lanvin Perfume Tester Display Rack

Vintage 1950s-1960s Lanvin perfume tester counter display rack, made up of black Lucite. Glass bottles held Pretexte, My Sin and Arpege.

Photo from ebay seller requester20

Lanvin Arpege Atomizers

Lanvin Arpege Atomizer Ad c1978

Lanvin Arpege Atomizer Ad c1982

Lanvin Bottles Ad c1977

This ad is from 1977 and shows the bottle shape and label style of the 1970s.

Lanvin ad 1943

Scandal by Lanvin c1931

Scandal by Lanvin, launched in 1931, emerged during a dynamic period in the perfume industry. This era saw the rise of bold, complex fragrances that reflected the changing social and cultural landscapes. The 1920s and early 1930s were marked by the aftermath of World War I, the rise of the Art Deco movement, and a burgeoning sense of modernity and freedom. Perfumes of this time, such as Chanel No. 5 (1921) and Guerlain's Shalimar (1925), often pushed the boundaries of traditional perfumery with innovative compositions and daring names.

Scandal, classified as a spicy, leather chypre fragrance, distinguished itself with its rich, mossy sandalwood base. While many fragrances of the time embraced floral and aldehydic notes, Scandal's bold combination of spice, leather, and chypre elements set it apart. The fragrance was both luxurious and provocative, capturing the spirit of an era that celebrated both opulence and rebellion. The inclusion of leather notes, in particular, added a daring, sensual edge that resonated with the increasingly liberated and adventurous women of the early 1930s.

The choice of the name "Scandal" by Parfums Lanvin was a masterstroke in marketing and branding. The word "scandal" itself, derived from the Latin "scandalum," meaning a cause of offense or stumbling block, immediately evokes notions of controversy, intrigue, and allure. In the context of a perfume, "Scandal" suggested a fragrance that was unapologetically bold and captivating, designed to turn heads and provoke strong reactions. The name implied a break from convention, an invitation to embrace one's inner audacity and charm.

Women in the 1930s, navigating a world that was increasingly modern and dynamic, would likely have been drawn to the daring promise of a perfume named Scandal. This was a time when women were becoming more independent, exploring new social freedoms, and challenging traditional norms. Scandal, with its rich, spicy, and leather notes, would have been perceived as a symbol of empowerment and sophistication. It offered an olfactory expression of confidence and allure, perfect for the modern woman who was unafraid to make a statement.

Pretexte by Lanvin c1937

Pretexte by Lanvin was launched in 1937, a time when the perfume industry was experiencing significant innovation and change. The 1930s were marked by economic recovery following the Great Depression, leading to a resurgence in luxury goods, including fragrances. Perfume houses were experimenting with more complex and sophisticated compositions, often combining floral and chypre notes to create multifaceted scents.

Pretexte was unique in its classification as an ambery floral chypre fragrance for women, blending the timeless bouquet of jasmine and roses with a chypre base that included fresh greens and warm, precious woody notes. This composition offered a harmonious balance between the floral and earthy elements, appealing to women seeking both elegance and a touch of opulence in their perfumes.

Parfums Lanvin chose the name "Pretexte" for its evocative and intriguing nature. "Pretexte" is a French word meaning "pretext" or "excuse." This name suggests a fragrance that provides an excuse or a reason for indulgence, inviting women to embrace moments of luxury and sophistication.

La Dogaresse by Lanvin c1923

La Dogaresse by Lanvin, launched in 1923, emerged during a vibrant and transitional period in perfumery. The early 1920s were marked by a fascination with both innovation and classicism in fragrance, reflecting the broader cultural shifts of the Roaring Twenties. During this time, perfumes were increasingly complex, with many houses exploring new scent combinations and materials. La Dogaresse, with its rich, evocative character, fit well within this context, blending the allure of historical romance with contemporary sophistication.

The name "La Dogaresse" was chosen by Parfums Lanvin to evoke the grandeur and opulence associated with Venice's historical aristocracy. The term "dogaresse" refers to the wife or female counterpart of a "doge," the chief magistrate and leader of the Venetian Republic. In French, "La Dogaresse" translates directly to "The Dogaresse." This name suggests a connection to the regal and historic ambiance of Venice, embodying the elegance and prestige of its palazzos.

La Dogaresse’s association with Venice is deeply intertwined with its historical and cultural significance. Venice, with its palatial architecture and storied past, provides a luxurious backdrop that aligns well with the sophisticated nature of the fragrance. The name evokes images of grand, opulent interiors and the timeless elegance of Venetian nobility.

For women of the time, La Dogaresse would likely have been seen as a symbol of sophistication and grace, capturing the romantic and exotic allure of Venice. The fragrance would have appealed to those who sought to embody the glamour and refinement associated with the city's aristocratic heritage. The name "La Dogaresse" thus evokes emotions of luxury and nostalgia, with the perfume itself potentially conjuring the sophisticated scent profiles of an elaborate Venetian ballroom.

In the context of perfume, "La Dogaresse" implies a fragrance with depth and complexity, reflecting the high status and refined taste of its namesake. The perfume would have been interpreted as both a tribute to historical elegance and a modern expression of luxury, catering to a clientele that appreciated the intersection of history, culture, and sophistication.

Rumeur by Lanvin c1934

Rumeur by Lanvin: launched in 1934. Created by André Fraysse. Intended primarily for furs.

Petales Froisses by Lanvin c1926

Launched in 1926, Pétales Froissés by Lanvin emerged during a fascinating period in the fragrance industry. The mid-1920s were marked by an exploration of both opulence and sophistication in perfumery. As the Jazz Age flourished, fragrances began to reflect the vibrant and luxurious spirit of the time. This era saw an increased interest in both floral and exotic notes, often blending them with intricate compositions to appeal to the tastes of a dynamic society.

Pétales Froissés, which translates from French to "Crushed Petals," fits into this context with its evocative and poetic name. The term "pétales froissés" conjures the image of delicate flower petals gently crushed, suggesting a soft, nuanced floral experience. The choice of name reflects a romantic and somewhat wistful aesthetic, aligning with the era’s penchant for poetic and evocative imagery in perfume branding.

The name Pétales Froissés would have appealed to women of the 1920s by evoking imagery of a garden in bloom, where the subtle scent of crushed flowers creates a sense of gentle nostalgia and natural beauty. The name suggests a fragrance that is tender and sophisticated, embodying a sense of refined elegance that aligns with the luxurious and sometimes avant-garde trends of the period.

In the broader context of the time, Pétales Froissés was not unique but rather a part of a growing trend towards intricate and layered floral fragrances. It was a response to the era’s fascination with creating scents that conveyed both elegance and emotional depth. The perfume’s name and its implied fragrance would have appealed to women seeking a scent that reflected both their personal sophistication and the romantic spirit of the Roaring Twenties.

Created by André Fraysse, Pétales Froissés aligns with Lanvin’s tradition of crafting fragrances that are both evocative and artistically inspired, contributing to the brand's rich legacy in the perfume industry.

Comme-Çi, Comme-Ça by Lanvin c1924

Comme-Çi, Comme-Ça by Lanvin, launched in 1924, was crafted by Madame Marie Zede during a time when the fragrance market was embracing modernity and sophistication. The 1920s were characterized by a flourishing of new ideas and expressions in fashion and fragrance, reflecting a cultural shift towards a more dynamic and stylish way of living.

The name "Comme-Çi, Comme-Ça," which translates from French to "So-So" or "This and That," captures a sense of effortless charm and balanced elegance. It suggests a fragrance that strikes a harmonious middle ground—neither too bold nor too subtle. This playful and somewhat ambivalent name would have appealed to women seeking a perfume that could seamlessly fit into various aspects of their daily lives while still offering a touch of sophistication.

The choice of this name aligns with the 1920s trend of using whimsical and evocative language in fragrance branding. It reflects the era's fascination with modern, stylish lifestyles, suggesting a scent that is both refined and adaptable. Women responding to Comme-Çi, Comme-Ça might have been drawn to its versatile nature, seeing it as a fragrance that complements a variety of occasions with ease and grace.

Overall, Comme-Çi, Comme-Ça represents a blend of elegance and practicality, embodying the spirit of the time with a name that evokes a sense of casual sophistication and effortless style.

Le Sillon by Lanvin c1925

Launched in 1925, Le Sillon by Lanvin was introduced during a period marked by the flourishing of the Art Deco movement and an increasing fascination with modern sophistication in fashion and fragrance. The 1920s was a decade characterized by dramatic changes in style, with a distinct shift towards sleek, elegant designs and innovative approaches in the arts and consumer products. Perfumes from this era began to reflect these changes, often embodying a blend of opulence and modernity. The fragrance, created by Madame Marie Zede, would likely have appealed to those who appreciated nuanced and well-crafted scents, reflecting the fashionable and luxurious qualities that defined the period.  

Le Sillon, with its nuanced and elegant composition, fit well within the fragrance trends of the time. The name "Le Sillon" translates from French as "The Furrow," referring to a furrow in the soil or, more fittingly in the context of perfume, the wake of a ship moving through water. This name choice aligns with the period’s interest in both the natural world and the innovative technologies of the time, symbolizing the scent’s ability to leave a lasting impression, much like the visible furrow left by a ship in its wake.

The term "Le Sillon" metaphorically connects with "sillage," the trail of scent left behind by a perfume wearer. This name suggests a fragrance that is designed to be both memorable and evocative, creating an enduring presence akin to the lingering wake of a ship. For women of the 1920s, this would have resonated with the desire for a scent that was both distinctive and elegant, reflecting their modern, sophisticated lifestyle.

In essence, Le Sillon's name and concept would evoke imagery of grace and lasting impact, highlighting the perfume's ability to make a subtle yet significant statement. The name would have appealed to women seeking a fragrance that not only complemented their style but also made a meaningful, lingering impression on those around them. This interpretation reinforces the idea of Le Sillon as a refined and evocative choice in the perfume market of the 1920s, mirroring the elegance and sophistication of the era.