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.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a fruity floral fragrance for women.

• Top notes: artemisia, mirabelle and plum
• Middle notes: frangipani, jasmine, cinnamon, tuberose, gardenia and rose
• Base notes: sandalwood, musk, vanilla, amber and cedar

Scent Profile:

As you delve into Revolution à Versailles, the fragrance begins with a captivating burst of top notes that awaken the senses. The aromatic herb artemisia introduces a crisp, slightly bitter green edge, reminiscent of a sunlit garden at dawn. This fresh and invigorating note is beautifully balanced by the luscious mirabelle, a fruit that offers a sweet, juicy aroma akin to ripe peaches and delicate apricots. Its nectarous scent envelops you in warmth, evoking memories of summer afternoons spent basking in the sun. As the mirabelle unfolds, the deep, rich scent of plum emerges, adding a velvety layer of complexity. Its dark, fruity sweetness brings a sense of opulence, drawing you further into this aromatic journey.


Transitioning to the middle notes, the fragrance flourishes into a lush floral symphony. The intoxicating scent of frangipani wafts through the air, conjuring images of tropical paradise with its creamy, exotic fragrance that is both soothing and uplifting. It dances gracefully with the romantic essence of jasmine, whose heady, night-blooming scent envelops you like a soft silk scarf, exuding femininity and allure. 

The warmth of cinnamon adds a tantalizing spice, enhancing the floral notes with a hint of warmth and comfort, reminiscent of cozy evenings. This intricate bouquet is further enriched by the seductive richness of tuberose, which exudes an alluring and almost hypnotic sweetness, alongside the fresh, green notes of gardenia that evoke a sense of lushness and sophistication. Completing this floral crescendo is the classic elegance of rose, which unfolds like a blossoming petal, its soft and romantic fragrance interweaving beautifully with the surrounding florals.


As the fragrance settles, the base notes emerge, grounding the composition with a warm and inviting finish. The creamy, smooth scent of sandalwood envelops you in a cocoon of tranquility, its woody undertones creating a serene backdrop that complements the preceding notes. Intertwined with it is the sensual warmth of musk, which adds depth and a lingering allure, enhancing the overall richness of the fragrance. 

The sweet, comforting aroma of vanilla introduces a familiar, indulgent sweetness that wraps around you like a soft blanket, evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia. Hints of amber add a resinous depth, offering a subtle warmth that resonates with the heart of the fragrance, while the crisp, clean notes of cedar provide a grounding finish, bringing balance and sophistication. Together, these base notes create an exquisite foundation that lingers on the skin, leaving a captivating trail that echoes the elegance and allure of Revolution à Versailles.


In every whiff, this fragrance tells a story—a celebration of femininity, elegance, and the essence of spring and summer, inviting you to experience the luxurious journey from the vibrant top notes to the enchanting floral heart, culminating in a warm, inviting embrace of the base.

Product Line:

The Revolution à Versailles fragrance line offers a diverse range of options to cater to different preferences and occasions. At the heart of the collection is the 5ml Eau de Toilette Mini, perfect for those who appreciate portability without compromising on quality. This miniature version allows users to carry a touch of luxury in their bags, making it an ideal companion for travel or a night out.

For those seeking a more substantial experience, the 50ml Eau de Toilette serves as a versatile option that can be used daily. This size is designed for both casual and special occasions, allowing the wearer to indulge in the refreshing fruity floral notes that define the fragrance. Meanwhile, the 100ml Eau de Toilette offers a generous amount for those who are enamored with the scent, ensuring they can enjoy it liberally. This larger size is often favored by devoted fans of the fragrance who appreciate its captivating essence.

In addition to the Eau de Toilette offerings, Revolution à Versailles includes a selection of Eau de Parfum Concentrée products. The 15ml Eau de Parfum Concentrée is a luxurious option that provides a more intense and long-lasting experience. This size is particularly suited for those who prefer a more concentrated fragrance that lingers beautifully throughout the day. Complementing this is the 30ml Eau de Parfum Concentrée, which is ideal for those who wish to indulge in a richer scent profile.

Each product in the Revolution à Versailles line reflects the brand's commitment to quality and elegance, allowing wearers to choose the format that best suits their lifestyle. With options ranging from convenient miniatures to lavish concentrates, this fragrance collection appeals to a wide audience, making it a versatile addition to any perfume wardrobe.

Bottles:

The Revolution à Versailles perfume is elegantly encased in a round, disk-shaped bottle that pays homage to its predecessor, Bal à Versailles. While the original bottle featured a classic round paper label at its center, this new design distinguishes itself with a striking satin ribbon cocarde in white and red. This ribbon not only adds a touch of sophistication but also serves as a powerful symbol of France and its revolutionary spirit.

The cocarde, a circular emblem often made from fabric or ribbon, became widely recognized during the French Revolution as a symbol of liberty and national pride. It typically features the colors of the French flag—blue, white, and red—representing the values of the revolutionaries: liberty, equality, and fraternity. The cocarde was worn by revolutionaries as a badge of honor, signifying their commitment to the ideals of the revolution and their desire for a new France free from the constraints of monarchy and oppression.

By incorporating the cocarde into the design of the Revolution à Versailles bottle, the fragrance not only nods to the rich history of the French Revolution but also captures the essence of transformation and renewal that characterized that era. The white and red colors evoke a sense of passion and purity, reflecting the bold spirit of the time. This symbolic ribbon elegantly contrasts with the luxurious round bottle, making it not just a container for perfume but a piece of art that tells a story of resilience and cultural identity. Together, the design elements create a fragrance experience that is both sophisticated and historically resonant, inviting wearers to embrace the revolutionary spirit that inspired its creation.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued, date unknown.