In 1924, the launch of "Allez Hop!" by Jovoy would have been a significant event in the world of perfume, especially considering the societal context of the time. The early 20th century marked a period of burgeoning independence for women, following the First World War when many took on roles traditionally held by men. This newfound freedom was often expressed through fashion, entertainment, and personal grooming, including the use of perfumes.
The name "Allez Hop!" itself carries a lively and spirited connotation, perfectly suited to the era's zeitgeist. "Allez" is French for "go" or "let's go," evoking a sense of energy, adventure, and forward movement. This would have resonated with women who were embracing a more active and dynamic lifestyle. The exclamation "Hop!" adds a playful touch, suggesting spontaneity and joy, qualities that were increasingly valued in the post-war years as people sought to move beyond the trauma of the conflict.
Blanche Arvoy, the creator of "Allez Hop!", likely chose this name to capture the essence of optimism and vitality that characterized the era. It reflects a departure from the more subdued and formal names of perfumes that were popular in previous decades, aligning instead with the modern spirit of the 1920s. By naming her perfume "Allez Hop!", Arvoy aimed to appeal to women who were seeking fragrances that complemented their newfound sense of freedom and confidence.
The design of the bottle, shaped like a dalmatian puppy in a basket, further enhances the appeal of "Allez Hop!" to women of the time. Small dogs, particularly fashionable breeds like dalmatians, were popular accessories among the elite and symbolized companionship and elegance. The whimsical choice of a puppy-shaped bottle not only reflects this cultural trend but also adds a charming and endearing quality to the perfume, making it both a delightful fragrance and a coveted decorative item.
Overall, "Allez Hop!" would have appealed to women of the 1920s by resonating with their desire for independence, fun, and style. Its name and design encapsulate the spirit of the era, offering a fragrance that women could relate to on both a personal and cultural level, thereby solidifying its place as a fashionable and desirable perfume choice.
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? It was reportedly a floral fragrance for women. It was said to be "subtle, yet exquisite, precious, lasting floral bouquet perfume."
Bottles:
"Allez Hop!" by Jovoy, introduced in 1924, was not just a perfume but a whimsical statement piece, encapsulated in a bottle that was a true delight to behold. Crafted in the shape of a Dalmatian puppy, the bottle exuded charm and playfulness. Its clear and frosted glass body was adorned with delicate enameled accents, enhancing its visual appeal. The pièce de résistance was the stopper fashioned as the adorable head of the puppy, complete with endearing features that added to its appeal.
Standing at 4.5 inches tall and containing 2 ounces of parfum, the bottle was not just a container but a work of art. A pink satin bow elegantly tied around the puppy's neck added a touch of femininity and sophistication. A small oval paper label, perhaps unobtrusively placed, completed the presentation, contributing to its overall charm and elegance.
The presentation set for "Allez Hop!" was designed to enhance its allure. Packaged to resemble a wicker dog bed, the interior was lined with coral-hued satin, adding a luxurious touch. The outer box, square-shaped and colored in vibrant orange, featured splashes of metallic gold ink, further highlighting the perfume's playful and extravagant nature.
Initially priced at $12.50 in 1924, which translates to approximately $190.01 in 2019 dollars, "Allez Hop!" positioned itself as a luxury item reflective of its time. However, by 1927, the price had decreased to $6.00, equivalent to about $91.20 in 2019 dollars, perhaps indicating shifts in market demand or production costs.
In essence, "Allez Hop!" not only captured the essence of its era with its lively name and whimsical bottle design but also stood as a testament to the evolving tastes and aspirations of women in the 1920s. Its combination of artistic packaging, luxurious presentation, and a fragrance that likely matched its charming exterior made it a coveted item then and a nostalgic treasure today.
Fate of the Fragrance:
"Allez Hop!" by Jovoy, though celebrated in its time for its unique charm and vibrant presentation, eventually met its end as many perfumes do. While the exact date of its discontinuation remains elusive, records confirm it was still available as late as 1927, marking a span of several years during which it captivated consumers with its whimsical allure.
During its brief but impactful existence, "Allez Hop!" carved out a niche in the perfume market of the 1920s, standing out not only for its lively name but also for its distinctive bottle design. The playful shape of a Dalmatian puppy, complete with a stopper fashioned as the puppy's head and adorned with delicate enameled accents, made it a beloved collector's item and a symbol of elegance and sophistication.
Its presentation set, reminiscent of a wicker dog bed with a luxurious coral-hued satin interior, packaged within a boldly colored orange box splattered with metallic gold ink, further underscored its appeal as a luxury item of its time.
Priced initially at $12.50 in 1924 and later reduced to $6.00 by 1927, "Allez Hop!" catered to the tastes and desires of women seeking both quality and style in their choice of fragrance. Its eventual discontinuation may have been influenced by changing trends in perfume preferences, economic factors, or shifts in consumer demand.
Nevertheless, "Allez Hop!" remains a fond memory for those who experienced its charm, serving as a testament to an era when perfumes were not just scents but expressions of personality and lifestyle. Its legacy lives on in the annals of perfume history, a reminder of a bygone era of elegance and allure.
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