Le Chevrefeuille by Corday c1938

"Le Chevrefeuille" by Corday, launched in 1938, emerged during a time when the world was experiencing significant upheaval and change. The late 1930s were marked by the lingering effects of the Great Depression and the mounting tensions that would soon lead to World War II. In such a tumultuous period, there was a pronounced yearning for stability, simplicity, and the comforting familiarity of the past. This context made a return to simpler, soliflore perfumes, reminiscent of the Victorian era, particularly appealing. Soliflore perfumes, which highlight a single floral note, offered an antidote to the complexities of modern life, celebrating the purity and beauty of nature.

"Le Chevrefeuille" is an excellent name for a perfume because it captures the delicate and enchanting essence of the honeysuckle flower. The name itself is melodic and carries an air of elegance and refinement, much like the French language it originates from. For women in the late 1930s, a perfume named "Le Chevrefeuille" would evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia, connecting them to the timeless beauty of nature. The honeysuckle flower symbolizes devoted affection, making it an apt choice for a perfume name during a period when people sought comfort and connection amidst uncertainty.

Women of the time period would likely relate to a perfume called "Le Chevrefeuille" because of its associations with natural beauty and romantic ideals. In a world where industrialization and the specter of war loomed large, the simplicity and purity of a soliflore perfume offered a form of escapism and solace. The honeysuckle's sweet, delicate scent would evoke images of serene gardens and tranquil countryside settings, providing a comforting contrast to the harsh realities of contemporary life. This fragrance would be seen as a manifestation of timeless elegance and feminine grace.

The word "Le Chevrefeuille" evokes images of lush, blooming gardens filled with the delicate vines of honeysuckle, their sweet scent perfuming the air. It brings to mind warm, sunlit days and peaceful, idyllic landscapes. Emotionally, it stirs feelings of nostalgia, tranquility, and romantic longing. The honeysuckle's fragrance is often associated with innocence and the carefree days of youth, creating an uplifting and soothing experience.

As a name for a perfume, "Le Chevrefeuille" would be unique and distinctive. While many perfumes of the late 1930s might bear names inspired by broader themes or complex bouquets, "Le Chevrefeuille" focuses on a single flower, highlighting its pure and singular beauty. This specificity not only underscores the fragrance's clarity but also appeals to those who appreciate the understated elegance of soliflore perfumes.

Interpreted literally, "Le Chevrefeuille" means "the honeysuckle," directly linking the perfume to its floral inspiration. For women of the late 1930s, this interpretation would be both clear and evocative, signaling a product that is true to the essence of the flower it represents. The name suggests a perfume that is natural, fresh, and uncomplicated, qualities that would have been highly valued during a time of global uncertainty. Thus, "Le Chevrefeuille" would be seen as a fragrant escape to a simpler, more serene world, offering a moment of beauty and calm in the midst of chaos.

Also spelled Chevre Feuille in some publications.

Fragrance Composition:

So what did it smell like? It was an old-fashioned honeysuckle soliflore perfume.

• Top notes: bergamot, neroli, aldehyde, jonquil, orange, honeysuckle, angelica, lemon, cassie
• Middle notes: orange blossom, tuberose, rose, geranium, orris, jasmine, violet
• Base notes: musk, vanilla, castoreum, benzoin, tonka bean, civet, sandalwood, almond, tolu, storax

Period Advertisements:

Drug & Cosmetics Industry, 1938:

"PARFUMS CORDAY Corday is introducing "Chevre Feuille," and while honeysuckle is an elusive scent, Corday has succeeded in capturing the delicacy and charm of the flower in this presentation. It is packaged in the same type bottle and box used for Orchidee Bleue."

Drug & Cosmetics Industry, 1939:

"Corday's five eau de cologne floral scents of Sweet Pea, Gardenia, Chevre Feuille, Li las and Jasmin, all make their appearance in a gracefully long-necked flask, with a curving petal-like base and an ivory-tinted stopper."

Harper's Bazaar, 1942:

"Corday's seven imported flower perfumes include, "Chevrefeuille," an old-fashioned honeysuckle fragrance — our favorite and a favorite of many women who like to dramatize their femininity."

Bottles:

Offered in the squatty "Orchidee Bleue" lobed bottle originally designed by Baccarat. Also sold in a miniature cylindrical bottle.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued, date unknown. Still being sold in 1951.

Find Le Chevrefeuille Perfume by Corday on ebay