Nuit de Versailles by Jean Desprez c1958

In 1958, building on the success of his earlier creation, Debutante de Versailles, Jean Desprez introduced another captivating fragrance for Daggett & Ramsdell: Nuit de Versailles. This new perfume was designed to evoke the enchanting allure of evening, promising to envelop its wearer in a rich, sensual embrace. Initially available in a parfum splash, Nuit de Versailles quickly gained popularity, leading to its release in spray form in 1959, reflecting the evolving preferences of consumers who favored the convenience and modernity of sprayable fragrances.

While some sources suggest that Nuit de Versailles may have been launched as early as 1949, the earliest advertisement uncovered dates back to 1958. This promotional material highlighted both Debutante de Versailles and Nuit de Versailles, indicating that the latter was indeed part of Desprez's strategy to capitalize on the growing fragrance market. This advertisement played a crucial role in establishing Nuit de Versailles in the public consciousness, positioning it alongside the already popular Debutante de Versailles.

A notable development in the history of Nuit de Versailles occurred in 1967, when a patent was granted to Daggett & Ramsdell, which by that time was an assignee of World Wide Fragrances, Inc., for the production of perfume sprays. The patent, filed on December 19, 1966, claimed that the perfume sprays had been in use since October 1964. This indicates that the spray form of Nuit de Versailles was not only a response to market demand but also part of a broader innovation trend in the fragrance industry, moving towards more user-friendly formats.

The combination of these developments illustrates Nuit de Versailles as more than just a fragrance; it was a reflection of shifting societal norms and the increasing desire for elegance and convenience in personal care products during the late 1950s and into the 1960s. As it continued to evolve, Nuit de Versailles would come to represent the sophistication and allure of its namesake, capturing the imagination of fragrance lovers for years to come.

40 Love by Jean Desprez c1947

In 1947, Jean Desprez introduced his only unisex fragrance, 40 Amour, a name that cleverly encapsulates the essence of tennis and its unique scoring system. The phrase “40 Amour” translates to "40 Love," where "love" signifies a score of zero in tennis, while “40” indicates the point just before winning a game. Pronounced "quarante amour," this term evokes images of spirited matches, the thrill of competition, and the elegance of the sport. The name itself conjures emotions of vitality, energy, and romance, perfectly aligning with the brisk and refreshing character of the fragrance.

40 Amour is classified as a fougere fragrance, often associated with natural, green, and aromatic notes. This crisp, sporty scent is designed to embody the spirit of tennis with its invigorating blend of ingredients, including pine oil, tarragon, oakmoss, and sun-ripened hay. One of the standout notes is a secret extract that imparts "the frail insistent smell of pure linen drying on a lawn," evoking images of warm summer days spent outdoors, basking in the sun, and engaging in leisurely activities. This olfactory representation of freshness and cleanliness resonates with both men and women, making it a fitting choice for a unisex fragrance during an era that celebrated athleticism and the outdoor lifestyle.

The late 1940s was a transformative time for tennis as a sport, with increasing popularity among both men and women. Events like the Wimbledon Championships and the U.S. Open were drawing larger audiences, showcasing the athletic prowess and grace of players like Louise Brough and Pancho Gonzales. The inclusive nature of tennis made it an ideal backdrop for a fragrance that sought to appeal to a diverse audience. During the launch party of 40 Amour, Spanish sculptor Juan Palas designed special trophies for the tennis and golf tournaments, further emphasizing the fragrance's connection to the sporting world.

Despite its initial unisex appeal, 40 Amour was discontinued but later reintroduced in 1975 specifically as a men's fragrance. This decision likely stemmed from evolving market trends and a growing emphasis on gender-specific scents. By the mid-1970s, the fragrance industry began to categorize scents more strictly along gender lines, with consumers increasingly gravitating toward distinct profiles. Rebranding 40 Amour for men allowed Parfums Jean Desprez to tap into the nostalgic charm of the original while aligning it with contemporary expectations, thus breathing new life into a classic that had once captured the spirit of a vibrant era in both sport and fragrance.

Perfume Advice from Denis Desprez

In 1977, Denis Desprez, son of Jean Desprez and President of Parfums Desprez had mentioned some very good advice regarding fine perfumes in an interview with the Santa Ana Register newspaper.

• "Perfume should be kept in a cool place, out of the sunlight, and carefully sealed because heat, sunlight, and air are the three big enemies of fine perfume."

• "After a bottle of perfume has been opened, a three to four days supply should be put in an atomizer, and then the bottle should be sealed again."

• "When the atomizer is empty, rinse it clean with alcohol, dry it, then pour another four days supply into the atomizer . It takes lots of time I know, but it’s the only way to make sure the perfume is conserved perfectly."

• "Use it on the warm parts of the body, inside the clothes."

• "One should never mix two perfumes. If you own clothes with which you used Shalimar last week, these clothes have to be used with Shalimar for life!"

Revolution a Versailles by Jean Desprez c1989

Revolution à Versailles by Jean Desprez was introduced in 1989, serving as a follow-up to the iconic Bal à Versailles. The choice of the name "Revolution à Versailles" is intriguing, as it encapsulates a sense of dramatic change and renewal, drawing upon the rich historical and cultural tapestry of France. Translated from French, "Revolution à Versailles" means "Revolution at Versailles." It is pronounced as “Reh-vo-lu-syon ah Ver-sigh.” The name evokes images of the opulent palace of Versailles, a symbol of French monarchy, juxtaposed against the transformative power of revolution, suggesting a break from tradition and an embrace of modernity.

The term "revolution" conjures emotions of upheaval, empowerment, and liberation, resonating with the societal changes occurring at the time. In the late 1980s, as women increasingly sought independence and self-expression, a fragrance named Revolution à Versailles could be interpreted as an olfactory representation of this spirit. The fragrance is classified as a fruity floral, a combination that evokes freshness and vitality, embodying the idea of rebirth and new beginnings.

Women of the late 1980s might have felt a deep connection to a perfume named Revolution à Versailles, as it aligned with their aspirations for change and progress. This era marked a cultural shift characterized by a move towards individuality and personal empowerment, with the feminist movement gaining momentum. The notion of revolution—historically associated with the French Revolution—was not just a political concept but also a metaphor for personal transformation and liberation.

Naming the fragrance Revolution à Versailles was particularly appropriate in this context. It suggested a reinterpretation of traditional values associated with the grandiosity of Versailles while simultaneously celebrating the new freedoms women were claiming in society. This duality reflected the fragrance's essence, merging classic elegance with a contemporary twist, making it a fitting tribute to a time when women were rewriting their narratives and embracing their roles in a rapidly changing world.

Debutante de Versailles by Jean Desprez c1958

As a tribute to the elegant American and French debutantes, the newborn belles of the ball, Jean Desprez created Debutante de Versailles in 1958, a limited edition perfume exclusively created for Daggett & Ramsdell.  The perfume was a tie in for Teleflora's Aura Arrangements campaign line of floral arrangements.

Grand Dame by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the world was on the cusp of great change and turmoil. The looming shadow of World War II began to envelop Europe, and many nations were grappling with the aftershocks of the Great Depression. Despite the economic challenges and the imminent global conflict, the late 1930s also retained a glimmer of the glamour and sophistication of the previous decade. High society still cherished its soirées, elegant gowns, and luxurious lifestyles, even as uncertainty brewed in the background. It was within this context that Jean Desprez launched "Grand Dame," a perfume that seemed to embody the very essence of elegance and grace amidst a world teetering on the edge of chaos.

The term "Grand Dame" originates from the French language, meaning "great lady." In French, "grand" translates to "great" or "large," and "dame" means "lady." The phrase is often used to refer to a woman of dignified bearing, one who is respected and distinguished in society. Choosing this name for a perfume was a deliberate move by Desprez, aiming to evoke an aura of sophistication and timeless elegance. The name "Grand Dame" conveys not only a sense of grandeur but also a nod to the resilience and poise of women, particularly those who navigate the upper echelons of society with grace and strength.

"Grand Dame" is an apt name for a perfume as it suggests a scent that is both commanding and refined. A perfume with such a name would likely be rich and complex, designed to leave a lasting impression, much like the grand ladies who inspired it. It would be a fragrance that exudes confidence and sophistication, appealing to women who see themselves as cultured, influential, and stylish. These women would relate to "Grand Dame" as a reflection of their own identity and aspirations. The perfume would resonate with them, offering a sensory embodiment of their elegance and stature.

Etourdissant by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the year Etourdissant by Jean Desprez was launched, the world was on the brink of profound change. Europe was descending into the chaos of World War II, marking a tumultuous period of uncertainty and shifting societal norms. Despite the looming conflict, the world of fashion and fragrance continued to thrive as an escape and expression of luxury and elegance.

Jean Desprez's choice of the name "Etourdissant" for his perfume carries significant meaning. "Etourdissant" is a French word that translates to "dazzling" or "bewildering" in English. It derives from the verb "étourdir," which means "to dazzle" or "to stun." This choice of name reflects a desire to capture attention and evoke a sense of awe and wonder, qualities highly sought after in a perfume during this glamorous era.

In the context of 1939, "Etourdissant" would have been a bold and evocative name for a perfume. It speaks directly to the desire for opulence and allure amidst the uncertainty of the times. Those who related to a perfume called "Etourdissant" would likely be individuals seeking escape from the harsh realities of war, drawn to the promise of luxury and the transformative power of fragrance.

Escarmouche by Jean Desprez c1949

In 1949, the launch of the perfume "Éscarmouche" by Jean Desprez occurred in a period marked by the aftermath of World War II and the beginnings of the Cold War. Europe was in the process of rebuilding, and there was a palpable sense of cultural and societal shifts. France, in particular, was experiencing a resurgence in art, fashion, and literature, with Paris reasserting its role as a global center of creativity and luxury.

Jean Desprez, a perfumer known for his avant-garde approach and bold compositions, chose the name "Éscarmouche" for his new fragrance. The word "Éscarmouche" originates from French and refers to a skirmish or a minor battle, typically of a verbal or physical nature. It connotes a sense of spirited conflict or engagement, often in a playful or romantic context.

The choice of "Éscarmouche" as a perfume name could be interpreted in several ways. Firstly, it suggests a perfume that evokes a sense of adventure, intrigue, and perhaps even flirtation. The name itself is exotic and evocative, appealing to individuals who seek something beyond the ordinary in their fragrance choices.

Those who related to a perfume named "Éscarmouche" might be drawn to its promise of excitement and drama. It could resonate with individuals who see perfume not just as a scent, but as a statement or an accessory to their personal narrative. The response to such a perfume would likely be one of curiosity and a desire to experience its olfactory journey, expecting it to match the boldness and allure implied by its name.

Versailles Pour Homme by Jean Desprez c1980

Versailles Pour Homme by Jean Desprez: launched in 1980 in association with Groupe Inter Parfums. It was available in eau de toilette and eau de cologne.

Votre Main by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the year "Votre Main" was launched by Jean Desprez, Europe and the world were on the brink of World War II. The late 1930s marked a tumultuous period of rising tensions, political upheaval, and economic instability. France, where Jean Desprez was based, was particularly affected by the looming threat of war, which would soon engulf the continent. It was a time of uncertainty and change, with cultural and societal norms undergoing shifts amidst the backdrop of global conflict.

Jean Desprez chose the name "Votre Main" for their perfume, a phrase that translates to "your hand" in French. This name carries a sense of intimacy and personal connection. In French, the word "main" not only refers to the physical hand but also metaphorically represents touch, connection, and personal expression. By naming the perfume "Votre Main," Desprez aimed to evoke a sense of personal closeness and elegance, suggesting a fragrance that could become intimately associated with its wearer.

"Votre Main" would have appealed to individuals who appreciated sophistication, refinement, and the artistry of fragrance. In the context of 1939, amidst the uncertainties of war, a perfume named "Votre Main" would likely have resonated with those seeking moments of beauty and luxury amid challenging times. It would have been seen as a personal indulgence, a small but meaningful luxury that offered a sense of comfort and elegance amidst the turmoil of the era.

Bal a Versailles by Jean Desprez c1962

Bal a Versailles by Jean Desprez: launched in 1962.

As a tribute to the elegant American and French debutantes, the newborn belles of the ball, perfumer Jean Desprez created Debutante de Versailles, a limited edition fragrance exclusively created for New York cosmetics firm Daggett & Ramsdell. This opulent composition, made up of over 300 ingredients, was to become the legendary Bal a Versailles perfume in 1962, when it was offered to the public for the first time. The crystal bottles for Bal a Versailles featured an image of the famous Fragonard painting, Bal a Versailles on the label.

Janusette Perfume Presentation c1969

In 1969, Leon Leyritz, a renowned French sculptor, brought his artistic vision to the world of perfumery through a unique creation for Jean Desprez's iconic fragrance, Bal à Versailles. Leyritz, whose celebrated works include sculptures gracing the Paris Opera House, was tasked with designing a vessel worthy of the luxurious essence it would contain. His masterpiece for Desprez took the form of a striking statuette of Janus, the Roman god with two faces—a symbol deeply rooted in mythology, representing duality, beginnings, and transitions.

This design choice was both symbolic and elegant. Janus, with his ability to look simultaneously to the past and the future, reflected the timeless nature of Bal à Versailles, a fragrance that paid homage to the grandeur of Versailles while being firmly planted in the present. The sculpted bottle, with its two contrasting faces, also embodied the duality within the fragrance itself—rich, sensual, and opulent, yet also refined and delicate. The Janus figure, carved with Leyritz's signature attention to detail, added an air of classical sophistication to the perfume presentation, aligning perfectly with the aura of regal luxury that Bal à Versailles exuded.

Beyond its artistic merit, the Janus statuette also held practical value as it was designed to hold the precious perfume in a bottle concealed within the sculpture, merging form and function seamlessly. This collaboration between sculptor and perfumer elevated Bal à Versailles from a mere fragrance to a work of art, a collector's piece that appealed to both connoisseurs of fine perfume and admirers of high art.

Bal a Versailles - Le Parfum du Jour by Jean Desprez c1971

Bal à Versailles - Le Parfum du Jour by Jean Desprez, launched in 1971, was a fresh, airy interpretation of the classic Bal à Versailles. While it retained the elegance and opulence of the original fragrance, this version was crafted specifically for daytime wear, offering a lighter touch. Though less intense than its predecessor, it still showcased exceptional longevity—a testament to its high-quality formulation. Its concentration as a parfum de toilette (essentially what we now refer to as eau de parfum) struck the perfect balance between strength and subtlety, ensuring it lingered throughout the day.

The lighter composition of Le Parfum du Jour allowed for versatility, making it ideal for women seeking a scent that was both sophisticated and wearable during the day. It captured the same baroque sensibility that defined the original Bal à Versailles but in a way that was airy, fresh, and suitable for a variety of settings. Whether in a professional atmosphere or a more relaxed social setting, this fragrance radiated refinement and timeless grace, making it the ideal choice for the modern woman of the 1970s.

Despite its lighter, fresher composition, the fragrance did not sacrifice complexity or depth. Le Parfum du Jour still carried echoes of the luxurious sensuality of the original Bal à Versailles, drawing from the same rich palette of florals, resins, and spices but interpreted with a brighter, more luminous quality. This made it an appealing choice for women who desired a refined, long-lasting scent without the weight or intensity of a traditional evening fragrance.

Sheherazade by Jean Desprez c1939

In 1939, the year Jean Desprez launched the perfume "Shéhérazade," Europe was on the brink of World War II. The atmosphere was one of tension and uncertainty as countries prepared for conflict. Despite the looming war, the early 20th century was a time of fascination with exoticism and orientalism in Western culture. The 1930s saw a rise in interest in stories and themes from the Middle East, influenced by literature, art, and travel to distant lands.

Jean Desprez likely chose the name "Shéhérazade" for its evocative power and cultural resonance. Shéhérazade, the legendary Persian queen and storyteller from the collection of Middle Eastern folk tales known as "One Thousand and One Nights" (or Arabian Nights), symbolizes intrigue, allure, and storytelling prowess. Her tales of adventure, romance, and fantasy captivated audiences, making her a timeless symbol of exotic beauty and intelligence.

The term "Jardanel" isn't immediately recognizable as a word in any major language, suggesting it might be a unique or possibly stylized name created for the perfume's branding purposes.

"Shéhérazade" would be an apt name for a perfume in the context of the 1930s. It would have appealed to those who were enchanted by stories of the exotic East, seeking fragrances that transported them to distant lands of mystery and romance. The name conjures images of opulent palaces, shimmering silks, sultry nights filled with tales of love and adventure under starlit skies.

Jardanel by Jean Desprez c1938

Jardanel by Jean Desprez was launched in 1938, a period marked by the looming shadows of World War II. The late 1930s were a time of both tension and transition, with Europe on the brink of conflict but still clinging to the vestiges of pre-war elegance and sophistication. In France, the era was characterized by a blend of anxiety and a desire for escapism. High society sought solace in art, fashion, and fragrance, cherishing the last moments of a world that would soon be irrevocably changed. Perfumes of this time often carried a sense of nostalgia, beauty, and a yearning for simpler, more idyllic times.

Jean Desprez, a master perfumer known for his exquisite creations, chose the name "Jardanel" for this particular fragrance. The name "Jardanel" is a combination of "jardin," the French word for garden, and "anel," which could be derived from the French word "aneler," meaning to entwine or encircle. Thus, "Jardanel" can be interpreted as "garden entwined" or "encircled garden." This evokes imagery of a lush, fragrant garden, a place of natural beauty and tranquility. The name is inherently French, carrying the elegance and sophistication associated with French gardens, known for their meticulously designed landscapes and rich floral displays.

Choosing "Jardanel" as the name for a perfume is particularly appropriate because gardens are often associated with a variety of enchanting scents. A garden is a place where nature's fragrances blend harmoniously, creating an olfactory experience that is both soothing and invigorating. The name suggests a perfume that captures the essence of a garden, with notes that might include floral, green, and earthy elements, reminiscent of blooming flowers, fresh leaves, and damp soil. This aligns with the trends of the time, where there was a strong appreciation for natural and fresh fragrances.

The target audience for a perfume named "Jardanel" in the late 1930s would likely have been women who appreciated the elegance and refinement of French culture. These women would have been drawn to the romantic and sophisticated connotations of a garden, finding comfort and pleasure in a scent that offered an escape to a serene, natural haven. In a world on the cusp of turmoil, the idea of a peaceful, beautiful garden would have been particularly appealing, evoking a sense of calm and stability.

The images and feelings evoked by the word "Jardanel" are those of serenity, beauty, and nature. One might envision a sun-drenched garden filled with a riot of colorful flowers, the gentle buzz of bees, and the soft rustling of leaves in the breeze. The scent would likely transport the wearer to this idyllic setting, offering a sensory escape from the harsh realities of the time. Feelings of joy, tranquility, and a connection to nature would be central to the experience of wearing Jardanel, making it a cherished addition to a woman's perfume collection.

When Jardanel was relaunched in 1944, the world was in the midst of World War II, a starkly different environment from its initial launch. However, the name and concept remained a poignant reminder of peace and beauty amidst chaos. The fragrance would have resonated deeply with those longing for a return to normalcy and the simple pleasures of life, such as the timeless beauty of a garden.