Les Lilas de Corday c1931

"Les Lilas de Corday," launched in 1931, emerged during a fascinating period in perfume history, characterized by a resurgence of interest in simpler, more singular floral fragrances reminiscent of the Victorian era. This era marked a return to soliflore perfumes, which focus on showcasing the scent of a single flower, echoing the elegance and refinement associated with the past.

The name "Les Lilas," meaning "The Lilacs" in French, would make a perfect choice for a perfume in this context. Lilacs, with their delicate, sweet fragrance, are symbolic of springtime and renewal. For women of the early 20th century, a perfume called "Les Lilas" would evoke images of blooming gardens, romantic walks in the countryside, and the innocence and femininity associated with flowers. It would resonate deeply with their desire for elegance and nostalgia for simpler times, aligning perfectly with the cultural sentiments of the era.

Women of this time period would likely respond positively to a perfume named "Les Lilas." The name itself suggests a fragrance that is floral, fresh, and evocative of nature's beauty. It would appeal to their desire for refined and classic scents that complemented their elegant attire and sophisticated lifestyles. The emotions stirred by "Les Lilas" would be those of joy, nostalgia, and a connection to the natural world.

Le Pois de Senteur by Corday c1931

In 1931, the launch of "Pois de Senteur de Corday" occurred during a period characterized by a return to simpler, more natural fragrances. This era marked a shift away from the complex, opulent perfumes of the 1920s, aligning instead with the elegance and purity reminiscent of the Victorian era's soliflore (single flower) perfumes. This trend was partly a response to the turbulent times following the Wall Street Crash of 1929, which led to the Great Depression. As people sought comfort and stability, there was a nostalgic return to simpler, more familiar scents.

"Pois de Senteur," which translates to "Sweet Pea" in English, is an excellent name for a perfume due to several reasons. The name evokes the delicate, fresh, and sweet fragrance of the sweet pea flower. This flower is associated with the innocence, grace, and purity often celebrated in Victorian floral symbolism. The imagery of blooming sweet peas can conjure up feelings of nostalgia, tranquility, and romanticism. The French name "Pois de Senteur" adds an element of sophistication and elegance, distinguishing it from more straightforward English names. It conveys a sense of refinement and exclusivity that would appeal to women seeking an air of grace and class. Women of the early 20th century were familiar with the language of flowers, a popular Victorian practice where different flowers held specific meanings. Sweet pea flowers symbolized delicate pleasure and lasting friendship, making the name resonate emotionally and culturally.

Women in the 1930s, living through economic hardship, would likely appreciate the nostalgic and simple beauty of "Pois de Senteur." The perfume would evoke memories of a more stable and refined past, offering a sense of comfort and elegance amid the uncertainty of the Great Depression. The delicate and natural scent would also appeal to the growing desire for authenticity and simplicity in daily life, countering the opulence of the previous decade.

Le Jasmin by Corday c1931

The launch of Le Jasmin de Corday in 1931 occurred during a period marked by a nostalgic return to simpler, more refined tastes in perfume, reminiscent of the Victorian era. This era saw a resurgence of interest in soliflore perfumes, which focus on single floral notes, embodying a sense of purity and elegance. Perfumes like Le Jasmin aimed to capture the essence of a specific flower, in this case, jasmine, renowned for its intoxicating scent and association with femininity and sensuality.

"Jasmin" is an ideal name for a perfume during this time for several reasons. Firstly, jasmine has a rich cultural symbolism, often representing beauty, grace, and romance. Naming a perfume "Jasmin" immediately evokes imagery of lush gardens, warm evenings, and the delicate yet potent fragrance of jasmine blossoms. Women of the 1930s would likely resonate deeply with a perfume named "Jasmin" due to its classical appeal and the intrinsic allure associated with jasmine itself.

For women of that era, "Jasmin" would represent more than just a fragrance; it would evoke a sense of sophistication and femininity. The perfume would likely be received with enthusiasm, offering wearers a connection to nature and a timeless elegance that transcends passing trends. The name "Jasmin" suggests a purity and simplicity that would appeal to those seeking understated yet captivating scents.

Toujours Toi by Corday c1951

"Toujours Toi" by Corday was launched in 1951, a period marked by post-World War II recovery and a resurgence of glamour and sophistication in fashion and beauty. Perfumes of this era often reflected elegance, femininity, and the desire for luxury and allure, catering to a growing market of women seeking both practicality and indulgence in their beauty routines. In French, "Toujours Toi" translates to "Always You" in English. This phrase carries with it a sense of intimacy, devotion, and enduring presence. It suggests a personal connection and a constant reminder of someone beloved, evoking emotions of warmth and romance.

"Toujours Toi" makes a compelling name for a perfume due to its romantic and evocative nature. It conveys a timeless appeal, emphasizing a fragrance that remains memorable and significant, much like its wearer. The name implies a perfume designed to enhance allure and leave a lasting impression, resonating well with the elegance and sophistication sought after in the 1950s. Women would likely respond positively to "Toujours Toi," appreciating its romantic and evocative name. The fragrance would be perceived as sophisticated and alluring, catering to the desire for elegance and charm characteristic of the post-war period. It would evoke feelings of warmth, tenderness, and a deep emotional connection, aligning with the desire for timeless beauty and romance.

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.

Silver Queen Compact by Corday c1928

"Silver Queen" Golf Ball compact. Complete with original box.

Fabulous sports compact with textured waffle lid and back. Even the facial powder has the same pattern still impressed into it. The Powder puff is a forest green color with the 18th hole red leather flag.

The mirror is clear. Stamped around the mirror frame, "BLANCHETTE, DE CORDAY, PARIS, LIONEL, NEW YORK".

Box marked "No. 716. Perfumed with Blanchette De Corday Paris. Refillers May Be Obtained From Your Dealer. Distributed by Lionel, New York, Paris."

The Golf Ball compact measures 2 inches in diameter.

 Note the 1928 ad featured in Roselyn Gerson's book, Vintage & Vogue Ladies Compacts, 2nd Ed., on page 140.

Photos from ebay seller *heart-of-a-woman*

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.

Jet for Jentlemen by Corday c1949

In the late 1940s, particularly around 1949 when "Jet for Jentlemen" by Corday was launched, society was transitioning from the austerity of World War II to a period of renewed prosperity and glamor. This was an era marked by sophisticated, playboy-like gentlemen who embodied a new wave of confidence and style. These men were often seen in well-tailored suits, attending exclusive social gatherings, and leading lives of leisure and luxury. They were the epitome of post-war elegance and charm, often influencing trends in fashion and lifestyle.

The reinterpretation of the original Jet perfume for women into a men's fragrance was a strategic move to capture the essence of this sophisticated masculinity. The name "Jet" refers to the jet stone, a gemstone known for its deep black color and glossy finish. This stone symbolizes strength, power, and a mysterious allure, all qualities that would appeal to the distinguished gentlemen of the time. A fragrance named "Jet" would naturally evoke images of a man who is both strong and enigmatic, someone who commands attention and exudes confidence.

"Jet for Jentlemen" would particularly appeal to men who saw themselves as modern-day dandies—cultivated and stylish individuals who were unafraid to make a statement. These men would appreciate the boldness and sophistication that the fragrance represented. The use of the term "gentlemen" in the name also suggested a certain level of refinement and class, aligning with the values of these men who prized elegance and propriety.

Corday 1930 Ad with Prices

The Argus (Melbourne, Vic.) Tuesday 23, December 1930.

Corday Kai-Sang Perfume - In attractive novelty containers of Japanese design. Special Prices: 10/6 value, now 9/6; 19/6 value, now 17/9; 45 value, now 40.

Corday Kai-Sang Face Powder - Usually 6 box; now 5/6.

Corday Lavender Water - A delightful refreshing fragrance. Special Prices 8/6 value, now 7/11; 13/6 value, now 12/6 bottle.

Corday Orchidee Bleue Perfume - Delicate and elusive, artistically boxed. Special prices: 12 value, now 10/11; 22/6 value, now 21; 50 value, now 45.

Corday Femme de Jour Face Powder - Soft, clinging and delicately perfumed. Usually 7/6 box; special price 6/11.

Corday Femme de Jour Perfume - Special price; 12 value, now 10/11; 22/6 value, now 21; 60 value, now 54; 70 value, now 63.

Corday Blanchette Perfume - A most attractive gift suggestion. Special prices: 12 value, now 10/11; 22/6 value, now 21; 57/6 value, now 49/6; 70 value, now 63.

Corday Blanchette Face Powder - Usually 7/6 box; special price 6/11.

Corday Jasmin Face Powder - Fine, soft and charming fragrance. Usually 7/6 box; special price 6/11.

Corday Jasmin Dusting Powder - Usually 11/6 box; now 10/6.

Corday Jasmin Perfume - A delightful perfume, artistically boxed. Special price: 12  value, now 10/11; 22/6 value, now  21; 57/6 value, now 49/6.

Corday Toodle-Oo Perfume - A novelty presentation of most unusual design. Priced ordinarily at 40 bottle; now 36.

Kai Sang by Corday c1924

Kai Sang by Corday, launched in 1924, emerged during a period marked by a significant fascination with Orientalism and exoticism in Western culture. The 1920s, known as the Roaring Twenties, were a time of substantial social and cultural change. Post-World War I, there was a collective desire for escapism and indulgence, leading to an embrace of exotic influences from Asia and the Middle East. The Art Deco movement, flourishing during this era, frequently incorporated motifs and aesthetics inspired by ancient Egypt, China, Japan, and India. This cultural trend extended to perfumery, where opulent oriental perfumes featuring rich, complex notes like ambergris, spices, incense, lush flowers, and precious woods became highly popular.

The name "Kai Sang" is believed to mean "To Be Triumphant" in Chinese. This name conveys a sense of victory, success, and exaltation, making it an appealing choice for a perfume. It suggests confidence and allure, aligning perfectly with the bold and luxurious character of oriental fragrances. The evocative and triumphant name would have attracted women seeking a scent that embodied strength, mystery, and exotic appeal.

Blanche Arvoy, the creator of Kai Sang, likely chose this name to capitalize on the contemporary fascination with Oriental themes. By using a name with an exotic sound and a triumphant meaning, she aimed to draw in customers intrigued by the luxurious and mysterious lifestyle associated with the Orient. The fact that "Kai Sang" was also the name of a thoroughbred horse in 1919 adds an element of elegance and prestige, further enhancing the perfume's luxurious image. Thoroughbred horses are often associated with nobility and high status, which complements the opulence suggested by the fragrance.

Women of the 1920s were increasingly breaking away from traditional roles and embracing new freedoms in fashion and personal expression. A perfume named "Kai Sang," with its connotations of triumph and exoticism, would resonate with the modern woman of the time, who sought to express her independence and sophistication. The rich, opulent notes of oriental perfumes were popular because they offered a sense of escape and indulgence. Influenced by the trends of Orientalism, women in the 1920s would likely find a perfume like Kai Sang appealing both for its luxurious scent and its evocative name.

In summary, Kai Sang by Corday perfectly encapsulates the era's fascination with Orientalism and exotic luxury. Its name, meaning "To Be Triumphant" in Chinese, would have resonated with the period's themes of empowerment and allure. Blanche Arvoy's choice of this name likely aimed to attract the modern, sophisticated women of the time who were drawn to the opulence and mystery of oriental perfumes.

Toodle-oo by Corday c1924

The perfume "Toodle-oo" by Corday was launched in 1924, a time marked by significant cultural and social changes, especially in the Western world. This period, known as the Roaring Twenties, followed the end of World War I and was characterized by economic prosperity, technological advancements, and a general sense of liberation and modernity. The post-war economy was booming, leading to increased consumerism and the rise of a new middle class with disposable income. Technological innovations such as automobiles, radio, and cinema were becoming widely accessible, transforming daily life and entertainment. The Jazz Age flourished, with jazz music and dance halls gaining popularity, embodying the era's spirit of breaking away from past conventions. Women gained the right to vote in many countries, including the United States in 1920, and the flapper fashion symbolized a break from traditional norms, embracing shorter skirts, bobbed hair, and a more carefree lifestyle.

"Toodle-oo" is derived from the French phrase "à tout à l'heure," meaning "see you soon." The term has a light-hearted, whimsical sound, evoking a sense of playfulness and casual farewell. Given its French origin, the name would also carry a certain sophistication and elegance, appealing to the cosmopolitan sensibilities of the time. The 1920s saw a surge in travel due to advancements in transportation, such as automobiles and airplanes, making travel more accessible. The name "Toodle-oo" aligns well with the era's spirit of adventure and wanderlust, suggesting a sense of departure and anticipation of new experiences.

Blanche Arvoy's choice of the name "Toodle-oo" reflects the modern, liberated spirit of the 1920s, appealing to women who embraced new freedoms and lifestyles. The French connection would lend an air of elegance and charm, aligning with the fashion and cultural trends of the time. Women of the 1920s, particularly the flappers and those influenced by the new modernist trends, would likely respond favorably to a perfume named "Toodle-oo." It encapsulates the carefree, adventurous spirit of the age. The whimsical yet chic nature of the name would resonate with the fashionable, trend-conscious women who were eager to embrace products that reflected their new-found independence and modern lifestyles.

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.

Quand? by Corday c1930

"Quand?" by Corday, launched in 1930, emerged during a period characterized by the aftermath of the Roaring Twenties and the onset of the Great Depression. This era was marked by significant societal shifts, particularly in fashion and culture, where women were asserting more independence and sophistication.

In French, "quand?" translates to "when?" in English, posing a question about time and anticipation. This word could make a compelling name for a perfume due to its mysterious and evocative nature. It suggests a sense of longing, contemplation, and allure, which would have resonated with women of the 1930s.

For women of that time, "Quand?" would likely have been perceived as a fragrance that embodies elegance, mystery, and a touch of sensuality. Its name alone would evoke images of candlelit soirées, jazz-filled nights, and the glamour of Hollywood, making it appealing to those seeking a perfume that embodies sophistication and intrigue.

Trapeze by Corday c1956

In 1956, the year in which the perfume "Trapeze" was launched by Corday, marked a period of post-war optimism and burgeoning prosperity in Western societies. The world was transitioning from the austerity of the war years into an era characterized by economic growth, technological advancement, and evolving social norms. This was also a time when women's roles in society were starting to undergo significant changes, with increasing opportunities for independence and self-expression.

When we think of a trapeze artist performing high above the ground, there's a sense of being elevated to great heights, both literally and metaphorically. In the realm of love, "dizzying heights" can represent the exhilaration and euphoria experienced when falling in love — the feeling of being swept off one's feet, the rush of emotions, and the sense of being on top of the world.

Emotionally, the name "Trapeze" conjures up images of circus tents under starlit skies, the thrill of acrobats performing breathtaking stunts, and the exhilaration of taking risks. It suggests a perfume that is not merely a fragrance, but a sensory experience that ignites the imagination and stirs the senses.

The name "Trapeze" for a perfume is intriguing and evocative in several ways. Firstly, a trapeze is a type of circus apparatus, symbolizing grace, agility, and daring feats. It embodies a sense of freedom, excitement, and a touch of danger. Choosing "Trapeze" as the name suggests a perfume that aims to capture these qualities — something that is alluring, adventurous, and perhaps a bit unconventional.

For Corday, selecting such a name could have been a strategic decision to appeal to women who were embracing their newfound freedoms and aspirations in the 1950s. The name "Trapeze" implies a sense of risk-taking and exhilaration, qualities that can be metaphorically connected to the thrill and excitement of falling in love and romance. Love itself can be seen as a daring endeavor, often involving risk and uncertainty, yet holding the promise of great rewards.