In 1925, when Orchidée Bleue was launched, the world was captivated by the allure of distant lands and exotic treasures, epitomized by lush jungles and rare, vibrant flowers. The name "Orchidée Bleue" evokes a sense of mystery and elegance, perfectly fitting the zeitgeist of the era. Orchids themselves were highly coveted for their beauty and rarity, often symbolizing luxury and refinement.
Blanche Arvoy, the perfumer behind Orchidée Bleue, likely chose this name to evoke the image of a rare and enchanting blue orchid blooming in the depths of an exotic jungle. The term "Orchidée Bleue" suggests something both unusual and captivating, drawing on the fascination with far-flung locales and the exploration of unknown realms prevalent during the early 20th century.
For women of the time period, Orchidée Bleue would have been particularly appealing. It promised to transport them to distant lands through its exotic and daring fragrance notes, resonating with their desire for adventure and a taste of the unknown. The allure of the orchid in perfumery lies in its complex scent profile, which can range from sweet and floral to exotic and sensual, making it a versatile and intriguing ingredient.
The popularity of Orchidée Bleue can be attributed to its association with the mystique of orchids and the allure of the exotic. Perfumes like Orchidée Bleue captured the imagination of women who sought to embody the adventurous spirit of the time, embracing fragrances that mirrored the boldness and mystery of faraway lands. Its classification as a floral fragrance ensured it appealed to feminine tastes while offering a distinctive and memorable olfactory experience.
In summary, Orchidée Bleue by Corday in 1925 was more than just a perfume; it was a reflection of an era enamored with exploration, luxury, and the exotic allure of rare flowers. Its name and fragrance promised women a journey into the depths of lush jungles and the discovery of something truly extraordinary—an experience both thrilling and sophisticated, perfectly in tune with the desires and aspirations of its time.
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral fragrance for women. As reported in Stage Magazine in 1937: "exotic... exciting... dangerous as the jungles where orchids grow."
- Top notes of lemon, neroli, bergamot, violet
- Middle notes: orchid, rose, carnation, ylang ylang, jasmine, tuberose
- Base notes: tonka bean, musk, benzoin, sandalwood, ambergris
Scent Profile:
As you venture deep into the lush tropical jungle, the air is alive with a symphony of scents and sounds. The top notes of Orchidée Bleue greet you first: the bright zest of lemon and bergamot dancing through the humid air, mingling with the delicate sweetness of neroli. These citrusy notes are like sunlit pathways leading you deeper into the verdant landscape. Around you, brightly colored birds dart between towering trees, their calls echoing through the canopy, adding a vibrant chorus to your sensory journey.
As you move further into the heart of the jungle, the middle notes of Orchidée Bleue envelop you like a fragrant embrace. Here, amidst the dense foliage, you encounter the rare blue orchid, its ethereal scent weaving through the air. It's a captivating blend of floral richness—roses blooming with velvety petals, carnations exuding spicy warmth, and ylang ylang adding a hint of tropical sweetness. Jasmine and tuberose weave their heady aromas, reminiscent of exotic blooms hidden amidst the greenery. The atmosphere is thick with the sultry fragrance of these flowers, each note unfolding like a story of passion and allure.
Beneath your feet, the jungle floor teems with life—a tactile sensation of damp earth and lush vegetation. You feel the humidity clinging to your skin, the tangible presence of nature's abundance. The occasional rustle of leaves hints at unseen creatures—perhaps a curious monkey observing your presence from the safety of the canopy above, or the distant call of a jaguar, adding a thrill of excitement to your sensory exploration.
As you linger in this enchanted realm, the base notes of Orchidée Bleue begin to emerge, grounding the fragrance with their deep, lingering warmth. Tonka bean offers a subtle sweetness, while musk whispers of animalic allure. Benzoin and sandalwood impart a resinous richness, mingling with the salty sweetness of ambergris. These base notes evoke a sense of depth and mystery, like the ancient secrets whispered by the very heart of the jungle.
In this wild and untamed landscape, Orchidée Bleue unfolds as a fragrance both exotic and alluring, echoing the sentiments of Stage Magazine's description in 1937: "exotic... exciting... dangerous as the jungles where orchids grow." It captures the essence of adventure and discovery, inviting you to immerse yourself in the sensory tapestry of a jungle teeming with life and hidden treasures.
Bottles:
1937 retail prices:
- Perfume.. $2.75, 12.50 to $17.50
- Eau de Cologne... $1.50, $2.75 and $5.
- Face Powder ...$1
- Lipstick...$1
- Compact double..$5.25
- Dusting Powder..$1.50
The Express Messenger - Volumes 20-22 - Page 17, 1937:
"Out of New York City by airyx on the Thursday before Mother’s Day were shipped by Parfums Corday, Inc., a large perfume distributor, 8735 orchids to dealer representatives in fifty-nine widely scattered cities as gifts to purchasers of a perfume called "Orchidee Bleue." The orchids were packed one each in oval-shaped cellophane boxes and shipped to Corday dealers by Gurney Chrysler, Inc. New York florist. It was reported afterward that every orchid reached ts destination in perfect condition."
Fate of the Fragrance:
Discontinued, date unknown.
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