Rusé by Corday c1966

Rusé by Corday, launched in 1966, is a fragrance that carried an air of sophistication and allure, aptly named to reflect the complexity and intrigue of its composition. The word “Rusé” is derived from French, where it means "cunning," "foxy" or "sly," often evoking a sense of cleverness or playful mystery. Pronounced "roo-zay", it suggests someone who possesses a certain charm and subtlety—perhaps even a hint of mischief. In layman's terms, you could think of the word as invoking someone who is both clever and seductive, someone who moves through life with a certain grace and intelligence that draws others in without them fully realizing it.

When this fragrance debuted in the mid-1960s, the world was in the midst of significant social and cultural change. The post-World War II era had given way to the optimistic, fast-paced 1960s, a time of radical transformation in music, fashion, and social norms. Women were embracing greater independence, with the feminist movement gaining momentum and a new wave of fashion icons like Twiggy and Brigitte Bardot embodying bold, new expressions of femininity. The "mod" style, characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes, and daring color choices, was in full swing, as was a growing interest in youth culture and self-expression. In contrast to the elegant but restrained femininity of the 1950s, the 1960s were about breaking boundaries—whether in fashion, music, or attitudes.

Given this context, Rusé would have been an evocative choice of name for a fragrance targeted at women during this time. The word itself—implying something a little elusive, a little sly—likely resonated with the modern woman of the 1960s, who was asserting her autonomy and embracing a new sense of power and agency. The perfume's name would have felt contemporary, aligned with the era's emphasis on playfulness, self-assurance, and a certain enigmatic charm that women of the time were increasingly embracing. It was a name that suggested both sophistication and intrigue—perfect for a fragrance that combined freshness with depth, floral notes with earthy richness, and an underlying complexity.

Femme du Jour by Corday c1926

In 1926, when the perfume "Femme du Jour" was launched, it marked a significant era in the context of the modern woman. This was the Roaring Twenties, a time known for its cultural dynamism and the changing roles of women in society. The modern woman of the 1920s was characterized by her newfound independence, confidence, and boldness. She embraced fashion trends that reflected liberation from traditional norms, such as shorter skirts and bobbed haircuts, and she actively participated in social and cultural activities previously dominated by men.

The name "Femme du Jour," when translated from French to English, means "Woman of the Day." This name would have been chosen by Corday, the perfume brand, to evoke a sense of sophistication, allure, and relevance to the contemporary woman. In the 1920s, there was a growing celebration of the modern woman's autonomy and visibility in public life. By naming their perfume "Femme du Jour," Corday positioned it as a fragrance for the woman who is at the forefront of her time, confident, and ready to seize the day.

This name resonates with women who aspire to be noticed, admired, and remembered. It appeals to those who are fashionable, socially active, and assertive in their pursuits. The kind of woman attracted to such a perfume with this name would likely be someone who appreciates elegance, enjoys being in the spotlight, and values her independence and femininity.

"Femme du Jour" conjures up images of a woman dressed impeccably, with a hint of mystery and allure. It suggests a fragrance that is sophisticated, perhaps with floral or oriental notes that complement the wearer's charisma. Emotionally, the name evokes a sense of empowerment and celebration of womanhood, capturing the essence of a modern woman who is vibrant and influential.

In summary, the launch of "Femme du Jour" in 1926 aligns with the spirit of the modern woman of that era, celebrating her newfound freedoms and expressive individuality. The name itself reflects the aspirations and characteristics of the women who would be drawn to such a perfume, resonating with their desire for elegance, recognition, and self-assured femininity.

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, pronounced as "luh shuh-vray-foy," 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. Also spelled Chevre Feuille in some publications.

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.

Jet by Corday c1924

The perfume "Jet Parfume," launched in 1924, coincided with a vibrant era in Parisian history, marked by the culmination of the Belle Époque and the beginning of the Art Deco period. This period saw Paris as a cultural epicenter, known for its grand architectural projects and ornate public spaces, including iconic fountains that symbolized luxury and artistic expression.

Notable landmarks such as the Place de la Concorde with its monumental fountains, the Palace of Versailles with its sprawling gardens and majestic water features like the Apollo Fountain, and the Luxembourg Gardens showcasing the Medici Fountain, exemplify the grandeur and artistic finesse of Parisian fountains during this time. These landmarks served as inspirations for architects, artists, and perfumers alike, capturing the essence of opulence and refinement.

"Jet Parfume," translated from French, means "Perfumed Jet" or "Perfumed Spray" in English. The name itself evokes imagery of a fine mist or spray of fragrance, suggesting a luxurious and dynamic olfactory experience. The word "Jet" connotes vigor, intensity, and modernity, while "Parfume" adds an element of sophistication and elegance.

For women of the time period, a perfume named "Jet Parfume" would have been alluring and aspirational. It would resonate with their desire for sophistication and modernity, aligning with the progressive spirit of the 1920s. The name suggests a fragrance that is not only powerful and distinct but also enveloping and refined, akin to standing amidst the refreshing mist of a grand Parisian fountain.

Women would likely respond to "Jet Parfume" with admiration for its evocative name and the promise it holds. The imagery and emotions it evokes include feelings of glamour, vitality, and being transported to a place of elegance and luxury. It conjures visions of sparkling water caught in the sunlight, the scent mingling with the breeze, creating a sensory experience that is both refreshing and enchanting.

As a name for a perfume, "Jet Parfume" would indeed be unique and memorable. It blends a sense of movement and modernity with the timeless allure of French perfumery and Parisian elegance. The word "Jet" could be interpreted not only as a forceful spray of fragrance but also as a metaphor for speed and innovation, reflecting the dynamic spirit of the 1920s.

In conclusion, "Jet Parfume" launched in 1924 embodies the essence of its time, capturing the imagination with its evocative name and promising a sensory journey reminiscent of Parisian fountains and the era's cultural vibrancy. It stands out as a name that is both distinctive and evocative, appealing to women seeking sophistication, elegance, and a touch of modern flair in their perfume choices.

Frenzy by Corday c1945

In the years following World War II, the Western world was captivated by a fascination with exoticism and the allure of distant, tropical paradises. This period marked a cultural infatuation with the South Seas and Polynesian islands like Tahiti and Hawaii, characterized by lush jungles, pristine beaches, and a perceived sense of untamed natural beauty. The average housewife of the era, often confined to domestic routines and societal expectations, found in these fantasies a potent escape into a realm of freedom and sensuality.

The wartime experiences in the Pacific Theatre indeed had a significant impact on Western perceptions of these regions. The tales of bravery, exotic landscapes, and encounters with indigenous cultures captured the imagination of the public back home. These narratives fueled a desire for escapism and adventure, elements that often found their expression in cultural artifacts such as literature, films, and even perfumes.

The choice of the name "Frenzy" for a perfume during this time period can be interpreted within this context of escapism and allure. "Frenzy" evokes a sense of intense passion, wild abandon, and heightened emotion, the heart beating like a drum. It suggests a state of excitement and desire that resonated with the cultural fascination with exoticism and the eroticized imagery of the South Seas and Polynesian islands.

Corday likely chose this name to evoke these powerful emotions and associations. Perfume names are carefully crafted to convey a certain image and appeal to a specific demographic. "Frenzy" suggests a perfume that is bold, seductive, and perhaps even a little mysterious. It appeals to women who seek to express their sensuality and embrace their desires.

The name "Frenzy" resonates with women who are confident, adventurous, and unafraid to indulge in their passions. It attracts those who want to stand out, to be noticed, and to evoke a sense of allure and excitement. The imagery and emotions associated with "Frenzy" conjure up visions of tropical nights, rhythmic music, the heat of the jungle, and the intoxicating scent of exotic flowers. It embodies a sense of liberation and uninhibited joy, offering its wearer a transformative experience akin to escaping into a world of fantasy and desire.

Blanchette by Corday c1924

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.

Corday Perfume Gift Sets

These Corday perfume sets were sold in the 1930s. They were packaged in round boxes covered with beige velvet suede, accented with gold and lined in ivory silk.

"Corday Perfume Wardrobe $3.75. This set is known as the “Triplet”, contains 3 dram size bottles filled with the following odors: Toujours Moi, Quand? and Orchidee Bleue. Box is beige velvet suede and gold. The bottles are exact replicas of the larger, original bottles."

Other gift sets were offered over the years. From the 1950s-1960s, oval or square shaped boxes covered with ivory satin and embroidered with gold thread often contained sets of two or three perfumes. These were intended to be used as jewelry boxes when the perfume bottles were empty and the cushioned platforms holding the bottles could be easily removed.

In the 1950s and 1960s, other gift sets appeared.

The graphics on the cover of the presentation box features an impressionist styled scene of Paris.The 12 bottles included are: Zigane, Jet, Pois de Senteur, Muguet, Chevre-feuille, Kai-Sang, Violette, Jasmin, Gardenia, Toujours Moi, Lilas, Fame. Photos from worthpoint.

Quaintance Quartette Eau de Toilette Set of 4 bottles in original box. The bottles are clear glass with Blue plastic caps, 2-3/4" in tall. The bottles are full with excellent labels. The fragrance names are: Zigane, Toujours Moi, Jet and Fame. Included is an advertisement that reads: Corday invites you to "get acquainted" with 4 of its most famous imported from France fragrances in flacons designed to fit in your purse. Take them with you wherever you go Enjoy them. Then choose your favorites and buy them in their regular sizes. Photo from worthpoint.

 Solid perfume sticks, meant to be carried in the purse. Available in Toujours Moi, Zigane, Jet and Fame. Photo from worthpoint.

Gift set with bottles that measure just 1 3/4" tall, box holds mini perfumes of Jet, Toujours Moi, Zigane and Fame, photo from worthpoint.

The gold box lid reads "Her Majesty's Wardrobe of Fragrances de Corday", and lists the fragrances, Toujours Moi, Fame, Zigane & Jet. Each small box contains a ½ ounce eau de toilette bottle and a 1/4 oz mini parfum bottle. Photo from worthpoint.

Purse bottles meant to be housed inside of the metal case for carrying in the purse. Eau de Parfum and Eau de Toilette "Purse Trio" No. 83. Contains 1/2 fl. oz. each of Fame (unknown if this is Eau de Toilette or Eau de Parfum because its front label in missing), Toujours Moi (Eau de Toilette), and Zigane   (Eau de Parfum). Photo from worthpoint.

Vintage Corday 10p set of perfume bottles with original box features: Jet, Muguet, Toujors Moi, Gardenia, Chevrefeuille, Lilas,  Fame, Violette, Kai-Sang, Possession. Photo from worthpoint.