Giardini by Babani c1924

In 1924, the world was emerging from the devastation of World War I, moving towards a period known as the "Roaring Twenties." This decade was characterized by economic prosperity, cultural dynamism, and significant social change. The period saw a fascination with modernity, as well as a longing for elegance and luxury. It was a time when women were increasingly gaining independence, symbolized by the flapper movement, with shorter skirts, bobbed hair, and a spirit of defiance against traditional norms. In this vibrant context, gardenias became a symbol of sophistication and timeless beauty, often used in perfumes to evoke an air of opulence and romance.

The word "Giardini" is Italian. It translates to "gardens" in English. The choice of this name for a perfume likely aims to evoke the rich cultural heritage of Italy, known for its beautiful and historic gardens, and to convey a sense of elegance, natural beauty, and luxury associated with these settings. Babani likely chose this name to evoke the lush, verdant imagery of an exquisite garden. Gardens are often associated with tranquility and a sense of escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. By naming their perfume "Giardini," Babani aimed to capture the essence of a serene and luxurious garden, filled with the intoxicating scent of blooming flowers, particularly gardenias, which were popular and admired for their rich, creamy fragrance.

"Giardini" is an excellent name for a perfume because it conjures up images of a beautiful, well-tended garden in full bloom, suggesting a fragrance that is fresh, floral, and rich with natural beauty. The name implies a sensory journey, inviting the wearer to experience the lush and aromatic ambiance of a secret garden. This imagery is not only appealing but also timeless, as gardens have long been associated with romantic and idyllic settings, offering a perfect escape into nature's splendor.

Memoire Cherie by Elizabeth Arden c1956

Memoire Cherie by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1956. The Grecian goddess of memory is depicted on the packages.

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)."

Cabriole by Elizabeth Arden c1977

Launched in 1977, Cabriole by Elizabeth Arden was a fragrance designed to capture the grace, femininity, and vitality of its era. The name “Cabriole,” pronounced cab-ree-ohl, is derived from the French term for a ballet movement—a leap accompanied by a turn of the legs mid-air. This choice of name was both evocative and sophisticated, suggesting elegance, lightness, and a sense of joyous motion. For women of the time, the name “Cabriole” likely conjured images of fluidity and refinement, evoking emotions of aspiration and freedom.

The ballet reference would have resonated particularly well with the 1970s audience, a time when women were embracing more liberated roles and identities, often balancing grace and strength in their personal and professional lives. A perfume named “Cabriole” would have appealed to the modern woman seeking a scent that symbolized this duality—delicate yet confident, traditional yet adventurous.

In terms of its composition, Cabriole was classified as a soft, aldehydic floral fragrance, a popular genre at the time but delivered with Arden’s signature twist. It opened with a bright and fresh green aldehydic burst that immediately captured attention, reminiscent of crisp morning air infused with leafy vitality. The heart of the fragrance bloomed into a bouquet of sweet florals such as rose, jasmine, and lily of the valley, interwoven with sweet spices that added depth and intrigue. This floral heart was balanced by a warm, woodsy, and powdery base, featuring notes like sandalwood, musk, and perhaps a touch of orris, grounding the fragrance in femininity and elegance. The result was an exhilarating blend described by Arden as “flowers and more flowers mixed and mingled with spices and leafy green notes.”

Arden for Men Sandalwood by Elizabeth Arden c1957

Arden for Men Sandalwood by Elizabeth Arden: launched in 1957. A line of men's toiletries and fragrances.

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

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.

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.”

Cupid’s Breath by Elizabeth Arden c1924

Cupid's Breath by Elizabeth Arden, launched around 1924, is a name that stirs both mythological imagery and an aura of romantic allure. The term "Cupid’s Breath" invokes the mythical god of love, Cupid, who in Roman mythology is often depicted as a playful, mischievous figure whose arrow could cause hearts to fall in love. The phrase suggests an ethereal, almost magical essence—like a light breeze carrying a whisper of passion or desire. The use of "Breath" in the name conjures images of something delicate, fleeting, and enchanting. It hints at an air of sensuality and mystery, a fragrance that would be experienced intimately and softly, lingering just enough to captivate the senses. The name would likely have appealed to women of the time as a representation of romanticism, making it the perfect choice for a fragrance aimed at evoking emotions of love, longing, and charm.

For women of the 1920s, Cupid's Breath would have been interpreted as a perfume imbued with the essence of romance and attraction. The 1920s were a period of great social change, particularly for women who were breaking free from traditional roles and embracing newfound freedom. A fragrance named Cupid's Breath would tap into the cultural zeitgeist of romantic love and the exciting allure of the modern woman. At a time when flapper fashion and independent lifestyles were taking hold, this perfume would serve as a playful, elegant companion to the woman's desire to embrace both beauty and seduction. The idea of "Cupid’s Breath" in scent would evoke the softness and warmth of a gentle floral, a fragrance that encapsulated not just beauty but also the mystery of love's effects on the heart and mind.

On Dit by Elizabeth Arden c1937

Elizabeth Arden's choice of the name "On Dit" for her 1937 fragrance evokes intrigue and sophistication. Meaning "They Say" in French (pronounced awn-dee), the phrase captures the essence of gossip, rumor, and the seductive allure of whispered secrets. The name, steeped in the elegance of the French language, reflects the global fascination with Parisian chic during the interwar years. It conjures images of soirées where women exchanged hushed confidences and elusive glances over champagne, their elegance enhanced by the subtle, intoxicating aura of their perfume.

In the 1930s, women were embracing a new modernity while holding on to traditional notions of glamour. A perfume named "On Dit" would have resonated with women who delighted in the thrill of mystery and the power of allure. It symbolized a statement of confidence, sophistication, and the art of leaving a lasting impression. For women of the era, "On Dit" was not just a fragrance—it was a character, a story, and an invitation to step into an air of elegant secrecy.

Created by the legendary Edmond Roudnitska, On Dit is classified as a floral oriental fragrance with a distinctive chypre backbone. The opening dazzles with the sharp brilliance of citron and lemongrass, accented by effervescent aldehydes and the juicy sweetness of fresh peaches. This initial brightness has been likened to the peachy opening of Mitsouko by Guerlain, a fragrance that redefined chypre compositions.

At its heart, On Dit blooms with a bouquet of timeless florals: the heady richness of jasmine, the powdery softness of heliotrope, the romantic allure of rose, and the creamy opulence of tuberose. These are heightened by the spicy clove-like nuances of carnation, adding depth and warmth to the composition.

The base grounds the fragrance in earthy and resinous notes, with galbanum's green sharpness, vetiver's smoky sophistication, and musk's sensual depth. Leafy, mossy undertones and the fresh, sappy accords evoke the verdant stillness of a shaded forest, giving On Dit a rooted, natural elegance.

Violet Essence by Elizabeth Arden c1920

Wood Violet Essence by Elizabeth Arden, launched in 1920, evokes a sense of nature and elegance. The name "Wood Violet Essence" combines two key elements: "wood" and "violet." The word violet refers to the small, fragrant flower known for its delicate purple petals, while wood invokes imagery of forests and the earthy, green surroundings where violets grow. In French, violette denotes the flower, and the word essence indicates an extract, particularly a fragrance distilled from a flower or plant. The name calls to mind the fresh, dewy scent of violets found in shaded woodlands.

For women of the 1920s, a fragrance like Wood Violet Essence would have been both a symbol of sophistication and a connection to the natural world. The roaring twenties was a period of rapid change and liberation, and the idea of a fragrance based on a delicate flower found in the woods could evoke feelings of both innocence and quiet strength. The scent of violets was associated with romanticism and was often seen as a symbol of modesty and purity, making it an appealing choice for a post-World War I era that was seeking renewal. The fragrance would likely have appealed to the sensibilities of women who were looking to assert their independence while still embracing femininity.

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