Note: Please understand that this website is not affiliated with the Elizabeth Arden company in any way, it is only a reference page for collectors and those who have enjoyed the Arden fragrances.


The goal of this website is to show the present owners of the Arden company how much we miss the discontinued classics and hopefully, if they see that there is enough interest and demand, they will bring back your favorite perfume!


Please leave a comment below (for example: of why you liked the perfume, describe the scent, time period or age you wore it, who gave it to you or what occasion, any specific memories), who knows, perhaps someone from the company might see it.

Thursday, April 3, 2014

Secret Princesse Nefertiti by Babani c1937

The perfume "Secret Princesse Nefertiti" by Babani was launched in 1937, a time when the world was fascinated by ancient Egypt and its mysteries. The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 had sparked a renewed interest in Egyptology, influencing art, fashion, and popular culture throughout the 1920s and 1930s. This period saw an influx of Egyptian motifs in design, from jewelry to architecture, as the Western world romanticized and idealized ancient Egyptian civilization. Perfume, an integral part of ancient Egyptian rituals and daily life, found a natural resonance in this context, and "Secret Princesse Nefertiti" emerged as a blend of this historical fascination and contemporary allure.

The name "Secret Princesse Nefertiti" translates to "Secret Princess Nefertiti" in English. The choice of this name by Babani, a renowned Parisian couturier and perfumer, was likely influenced by the aura of mystery and beauty surrounding Queen Nefertiti, one of ancient Egypt's most famous and enigmatic figures. Nefertiti, known for her stunning beauty and powerful position as the Great Royal Wife of Pharaoh Akhenaten, symbolizes timeless elegance and intrigue. By associating the perfume with Nefertiti, Babani tapped into the fascination with ancient Egypt and its perceived exoticism and sophistication.

"Secret Princesse Nefertiti" is an evocative name for a perfume, as it conjures images of hidden allure and regal beauty. The notion of a "secret" adds an element of mystery, suggesting a fragrance that is both personal and revealing only to those privileged enough to experience it. This name would appeal to individuals who saw themselves as sophisticated and discerning, seeking a scent that embodies both historical grandeur and an air of enigma.

One Hundred Five by Bababi c1944

One Hundred Five by Babani: launched around 1944. It was  available as Perfume and Toilet Water.

The New Yorker, 1944:
"Babani: One Hundred Five Toilet Water, six ounces for $2.50, and wonderful Perfume of the same name, $10 (At Jay-Thorpe)."

Friday, September 13, 2013

Ardena Hair Off Electra Eradicator c1953

From 1934-1953

"ARDENA HAIR OFF ELECTRA HAIR ERADICATOR. (wax) removes the hair from below the surface of the skin and leaves your skin smooth and free from unsightly hair growth. Discouraging future growth by reapplication, the wax-method was proved the easiest, $1.25, plus tax."





photos from ebay seller samtenserpe

Monday, September 2, 2013

Secret de Babani by Babani c1920

Secret de Babani by Babani: launched in 1920.


Ambre de Delhi by Babani - Parfum de Hindou c1921

In the early 20th century, the Western world was enthralled by the exotic allure of the Orient, India, and all things associated with these distant lands. This fascination was fueled by the mysteries, opulence, and perceived romance of these cultures, which were often depicted in literature, art, and emerging media like film. The year 1921, when "Ambre de Delhi" by Babani was launched, was a period marked by this cultural phenomenon, known as Orientalism. This was a time when Western society was captivated by the intricate artistry, rich tapestries, and the enchanting scents of spices and resins from the East. The luxury and mystique of these regions provided a stark contrast to the austerity and hardship experienced in the West, particularly in the aftermath of World War I.

The name "Ambre de Delhi" translates to "Amber of Delhi" in English. Ambergris, a rare and valuable substance produced by sperm whales, had been a coveted ingredient in perfumery for centuries due to its rich, sweet, and musky scent. By associating the perfume with Delhi, one of India's most historic and culturally rich cities, Babani tapped into the Western romanticization of India as a land of grandeur, spirituality, and sensory opulence. The choice of the name "Ambre de Delhi" was deliberate, aiming to evoke the exoticism and timeless beauty of Indian culture.

"Ambre de Delhi" would have been an evocative and appealing name for a perfume in 1921 for several reasons. Firstly, the use of "ambre" (amber) in the name would immediately suggest warmth, richness, and sensuality, key attributes that were highly desirable in perfumes of the era. Secondly, the reference to Delhi would invoke visions of an exotic and luxurious destination, rich in history and culture. This would have been particularly appealing to a Western audience eager to escape the realities of their own lives through the sensory experience of fragrance.


The audience for "Ambre de Delhi" would likely have been affluent women and men who were drawn to the sophisticated and exotic. These individuals, often part of the higher echelons of society, would have responded to this perfume with a sense of adventure and curiosity, appreciating its connection to a world far removed from their own. The name alone would conjure images of vibrant marketplaces, lush palaces, and the intoxicating scents of spices and flowers wafting through the air.

The term "Ambre de Delhi" evokes a plethora of images and emotions. It brings to mind the golden hues of amber stones, the rich and opulent interiors of Indian palaces, and the warmth of a sunset over the bustling streets of Delhi. Emotionally, it speaks to a yearning for exploration, a desire for luxury, and an appreciation for the deep, sensual fragrances that have long been associated with the East. Subtitled "the Breath of Love" and "Parfum de Hindou," the perfume not only promised an exotic olfactory journey but also suggested an intimate, almost spiritual connection to the essence of Indian culture and romance. The evocative name and its subtitles painted a picture of a world where love and luxury intertwined in the most exotic of settings, making "Ambre de Delhi" a captivating and desirable fragrance for its time.

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Seaqua by Elizabeth Arden c1970

Seaqua by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1970. A line of toiletries and cosmetics. Discontinued.



Ambré by Elizabeth Arden c1925

 Ambré by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1925. Discontinued, date unknown. Still being sold in 1937.

Sketch, 1925:
"Bath salts: Allamanda, Jasmine, Rose Geranium, Russian Pine, Ambre. In handsome glass jars, 5/6, 10/6. In 16-lb. tin, 35/-,Compact cubes, 6 for 3/6."
Woman's Home Companion, 1932:
"Elizabeth Arden's Ensembles for the bath: Powdered Bath Salts,exquisitely scented with Ambre, Allamanda, Jasmine, Rose Geranium or Russian Pine,$5."

The New Yorker, 1937:
Blue Grass, Jasmin, Ambre, Rose Geranium, Gardenia…$2.00, $3.50, $8.00. Le Reve, Night and Day…$2.50, $4.00, $9.00.”


Saturday, August 31, 2013

Cupid’s Breath by Elizabeth Arden c1924

Cupid’s Breath by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1924. Although Arden was an American company, many of her early perfumes were manufactured in France, and this perfume was made in Paris.

On Dit by Elizabeth Arden c1937

On Dit by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1937 and created by Edmond Roudnitska. It was apparently put on hold from production during the war and was re-launched as soon as it was over in 1945.


Friday, August 30, 2013

Violet Essence by Elizabeth Arden c1920

Wood Violet Essence by Elizabeth Arden : launched in 1920.


Parfums par Noel Perfume Presentation c1940



"Parfums par Noel," a presentation set of "Cyclamen," "Night & Day," and "Blue Grass" for Elizabeth Arden, circa 1940, features blown glass bottles hung in net stockings. Ht. of bottle 3 1/2 in (8.8 cm). Photo by Rago Arts & Auction Center

Blue Grass by Elizabeth Arden c1934

Blue Grass by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1934, created by perfumer George Fuchs of Fragonard.



Elizabeth Arden Pin Cushion Perfume Presentations

In the late 1930s and into the 1950s, Elizabeth Arden offered several different pin cushion themed perfume presentations. Sometimes the cushion itself was different, heart shaped one year, hat shaped in another, blue covered one year and pink the next. These are very rare as the perfume was often contained in tiny stoppered bottles on the end of a pin, simulating a hat pin from yesteryear. Other presentations included real pins that you could use as well as a small bottle of perfume attached to the cushion.




1940 Elizabeth Arden "Hatpin" perfume presentation, a miniature bust of felt and other hat trims, with glass perfume bottle hatpin. Ribbon label Elizabeth Arden. 6 1/2 in. 
Photos by Perfume Bottles Auction (close up showing tiny hat pin perfume bottle) 
Price realized: $700 in 2010.










Tide of Advertising and Marketing, 1939:
"Take Elizabeth Arden...She's got a new "Perfume Pincushion", a flower and lace trimmed pale blue rayon satin sacheted pincushion that cries for a Victorian hat. In it are thrust pink, yellow, blue and mauve stoppered glass hatpins. Fasten your veil with one, stick one in your lapel, or pin your corsage with it."


1930s Elizabeth Arden “Perfume Pin-Ups” Blue Grass perfume bottle, clear glass, plastic screw-cap, label, box with sachet cushion and three hatpins. Bottle 2 in. Photos by Perfume Bottles Auction.
Price realized: $100 in 2012. Described in the original ad below.

The New Yorker, 1939:
"Elizabeth Arden, always highly imaginative where lovely femininity is concerned (pink is no discovery to her), offers Easter presents that are the height of delicate froufrou. A notable one is a blue satin-covered old-fashioned pincushion with four pins stuck in it."

Stage, 1939:
"Elizabeth Arden's little gadgets are always amusing and charming. Now it's four perfume pins on a blue satin, moss- fringed pin-cushion."



Dance, 1940:
"Elizabeth Arden has put four of her perfume pins around a rosette of posies in an old-fashioned pincushion made gay and young with a cerise satin top and an edge of starched frills. The perfume pins are glass bubbles of perfume."




Cue, 1950:
"There are, too, several beguiling perfume novelties: An artful red velvet, heart shaped pin cushion from Elizabeth Arden, with four pearl stickpins holding in place a bottle of "My Love." $6.50"