Launched in 1935, Night and Day by Elizabeth Arden entered a world that was both glamorous and tumultuous. Named after Cole Porter’s iconic song from the Broadway play The Gay Divorcee, the perfume’s title evokes a timeless duality—the juxtaposition of light and dark, love and longing, passion and poise. The name "Night and Day" stirs a spectrum of emotions, from the bright optimism of daytime pursuits to the mystery and allure of evening romance. For women of the 1930s, the name would have conjured a sense of sophistication and possibility, resonating with the elegance of Porter's lyrics and the burgeoning freedom of a modern woman’s lifestyle. The imagery of "night" and "day" translated into fragrance suggests a composition that bridges contrasts: luminous freshness balanced by shadowy depth, vibrant florals softened by bittersweet, spicy intrigue.
The 1930s marked an era where perfume became an essential accessory for women expressing their identities and desires. The world was recovering from the Great Depression, and while luxury was scarce, perfumes offered an attainable escape into elegance. Fragrance trends leaned toward bold, dramatic compositions that mirrored the opulence of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Perfumes like Tabu by Dana (1932) and Shalimar by Guerlain (1925) were celebrated for their exotic, sensual character, while lighter floral fragrances retained a place for daytime wear..
