Blanchette by Corday, launched in 1924, is a name that reflects both elegance and a whisper of femininity. Blanche Arvoy, the visionary behind Corday, may have chosen "Blanchette" to evoke delicate simplicity and purity. Derived from the French word "blanc," meaning "white," the name "Blanchette" suggests softness, innocence, and refinement. The diminutive "-ette" further adds a tender, almost playful nuance to the name, conjuring images of a young, gentle woman, imbued with grace. This name choice likely reflects a desire to appeal to an ideal of femininity that was both accessible and aspirational, resonant with the era’s emerging modern woman.
In fragrance, "Blanchette" might be interpreted as a composition of airy, soft notes—perhaps delicate white florals, a hint of powder, and a touch of subtle aldehydes that would evoke the innocence of dawn and the lightness of silk. Such a scent could be imagined as clean and pure, yet with a sense of sophistication—blending the fresh vitality of youth with the refined elegance associated with Parisian chic.
The time period in which Blanchette debuted was one of significant transformation for women. In the post-World War I world, women were increasingly entering the workforce and embracing newfound freedoms. The Roaring Twenties was an age marked by the flapper—a symbol of the modern woman who reveled in jazz, fashion, and independence. Blanchette would have spoken to these women, offering a scent that balanced the allure of the new with the grace of traditional femininity. It was a fragrance for the woman who wanted to express her individuality while embracing the charm and sophistication of classic French style.
Thus, Blanchette was more than just a perfume—it was a sensory expression of the era’s evolving ideals of womanhood. With its gentle allure, it offered women a way to embody the era's spirit, an embodiment of a time when they were beginning to define themselves beyond traditional roles, yet still cherished the beauty and poise that had long been synonymous with the feminine ideal.
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? I have no published notes on this composition. The perfume was described as "frivolous" whatever that means.
- Top notes:
- Middle notes:
- Base notes:
Bottles:
The product line for Blanchette in 1924 offered a luxurious array of choices that catered to varying preferences and occasions. Available in parfum, eau de toilette (in a generous 8 oz size), and complemented by a scented face powder, Blanchette provided women with a complete sensory experience that extended beyond just fragrance.
The parfum, with its concentrated and long-lasting formula, embodied elegance and sophistication, perfect for special evenings and formal gatherings. The eau de toilette, presented in a larger size, offered a lighter and more refreshing option ideal for everyday use, ensuring that women could enjoy the fragrance throughout the day without overwhelming their senses.
Complementing these options was the scented face powder, which added a subtle touch of Blanchette's signature scent to a woman's daily beauty routine, enhancing her allure and leaving a delicate, lingering fragrance. Together, these products encapsulated the essence of Blanchette by Corday, providing women of the time with luxurious choices to express their individuality and embrace the glamour of the Roaring Twenties.
Blanchette Parfum was offered in three sizes:
- 0.5 oz
- 1 oz
- 2 oz (porcelain lady bottle) bottle stands 4" tall.
In the 1920s, Blanchette Parfum was available in three distinct sizes, each embodying luxury and elegance through its unique packaging and pricing. The smallest size, a dainty 0.5 oz bottle, was priced at $3.00 by 1927, offering a more affordable yet still indulgent option for those seeking a taste of Blanchette's refined fragrance. The 1 oz size, slightly larger and catering to those who preferred a more substantial quantity, was priced at $5.50, reflecting its increased capacity and value. Each size and style of Blanchette Parfum catered to different tastes and preferences, ensuring that women could experience its enchanting essence in a manner that suited their individual style and sophistication.
1 oz Deluxe Bottle:
The 1 oz deluxe bottle for Blanchette Parfum was a masterpiece of craftsmanship and elegance, designed to embody the luxurious essence of the fragrance within. Crafted from opaque ivory-colored glass, the bottle exuded a sense of refinement and sophistication, its creamy hue adding to its allure. The opaqueness of the glass added a subtle mystique, hinting at the precious liquid it contained.
Enhancing its opulent appeal, the bottle featured a gilded stopper, meticulously adorned with gold detailing that added a touch of glamour and exclusivity. Across the smooth surface of the bottle, the name "Blanchette" was elegantly rendered in gilded serigraphy, a testament to the meticulous attention to detail and the brand's commitment to quality.
This deluxe presentation not only protected the precious fragrance within but also served as a statement piece on a vanity or dressing table, reflecting the taste and sophistication of its owner. For women in the 1920s, the 1 oz Blanchette Parfum in its deluxe bottle represented more than just a fragrance; it was a symbol of elegance, refinement, and the luxurious lifestyle that characterized the era.
2 oz Porcelain Lady Bottle:
However, the pièce de résistance of the Blanchette line was the deluxe 2 oz porcelain lady bottle, characterized by its exquisite design and ornate features.
The 2 oz Parfum of Blanchette housed in a porcelain lady bottle, delicately perched upon a glass cushion, epitomized luxury and artistic craftsmanship in the 1920s. Standing at a height of 4 inches, this exquisite container was not just a vessel for fragrance but a work of art in its own right.
The bottle's top, crafted from hand-painted French porcelain, was molded into the graceful form of a seated woman. This intricate design added a tactile and visual dimension to the bottle, portraying elegance and femininity. The base of the bottle, forming the "cushion," was made of glass and contained the precious perfume, ensuring both practicality and aesthetic harmony.
A highlight of its design was the ingenious mechanism: to access the fragrance, the porcelain figure could be delicately lifted, revealing the stopper to uncork the flacon. This interactive element added a sense of ritual and refinement to the act of using the perfume, elevating the experience beyond mere functionality.
Such attention to detail and artistic presentation made the 2 oz Blanchette Parfum in its porcelain lady bottle a coveted item among women of the era. Beyond its aromatic allure, it served as a decorative piece that adorned dressing tables, symbolizing sophistication and a penchant for the finer things in life. This blend of beauty, functionality, and craftsmanship embodied the spirit of luxury that defined the Roaring Twenties, appealing to those who appreciated both artistry and fragrance.
In 1925, the 2 oz porcelain lady bottle retailed for $9.95. In 1927, the 0.5 oz size retailed for $3.00 and the 1 oz size retailed for $5.50.
Fate of the Fragrance:
Blanchette, the iconic perfume by Corday, continued to captivate and enchant well into the late 1920s, remaining available for purchase until at least 1929. Despite its eventual discontinuation, the exact date of which is uncertain, its legacy persisted through its distinctive blend and elegant packaging that had made it a favorite among women during its time.
Throughout its years of availability, Blanchette maintained its allure through its sophisticated floral and oriental notes, complemented by its luxurious packaging options such as the opulent porcelain lady bottle and the deluxe ivory-colored glass with gilded accents. These elements not only enhanced the perfume's appeal but also underscored its status as a symbol of refinement and taste in the perfume industry of the era.
The decision to discontinue Blanchette, while marking the end of an era for its devoted fans, did not diminish its impact on the perfume world. Its legacy continues to resonate as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that characterized early 20th-century perfumery, leaving an indelible mark on the history of fine fragrances.
No comments:
Post a Comment