Most Precious by Evyan c1951

Launched in 1951, Evyan’s Most Precious was a fragrance that embodied the sentiment of its name—a nod to a book that Evyan's husband happened to be reading at the time. The title "Most Precious" suggests a sense of rarity and value, evoking images of timeless elegance and cherished beauty. It conjures emotions of exclusivity and refined taste, painting a picture of a fragrance that is both delicate and highly esteemed.

The name "Most Precious" evokes the allure of something extraordinarily valuable and rare, much like the perfume itself. The concept of "preciousness" resonates with the idea of an exquisite collection of the finest elements, in this case, a carefully curated blend of the most beautiful white flowers.

In the context of 1950s fragrance trends, Most Precious was both a reflection of and a departure from contemporary norms. During this period, floral fragrances were immensely popular, but Most Precious distinguished itself by featuring a composition of twenty-two of the rarest white flowers. This dedication to a singular, refined floral theme was notable for its time, as it emphasized purity and sophistication amidst a market filled with more complex and varied scent profiles.

c1962 ad

Golden Shadows by Evyan c1950

Launched in 1950, Evyan's Golden Shadows is a fragrance deeply evocative of its name, which draws inspiration from the estate of Baron Westport, Connecticut. The estate, aptly named Golden Shadows, reflects the enchanting effect of the late New England sun as it cast its golden hues upon the summer home. This picturesque imagery of soft, golden light and tranquil shadows perfectly encapsulates the essence of the perfume.

The name Golden Shadows conjures a range of emotions and images, from the warmth and elegance of a sun-drenched summer afternoon to the serene and comforting ambiance of twilight. It evokes a sense of timeless beauty and sophisticated tranquility, suggesting both a moment of reflection and an air of understated luxury.

In the context of the 1950s, a decade marked by a fascination with elegance and opulence, Golden Shadows stood out with its spicy, sweet floral profile. The perfume's composition—a blend of floral notes with a powdery, resinous drydown—fit well within the trends of the era, which favored rich and complex fragrances. During this time, many perfumes were characterized by their heavy, luxurious scents, often featuring elaborate floral and spicy notes. Golden Shadows aligned with these trends while also introducing a distinctive blend that reflected a refined, yet approachable elegance.

Evyan’s choice to name their fragrance after a place so imbued with golden, fleeting beauty underscores their intent to create a perfume that resonates with both nostalgia and sophistication. The name Golden Shadows thus not only evokes a rich visual and emotional landscape but also situates the fragrance within a broader context of post-war luxury and innovation in the perfume industry.

Great Lady by Evyan c1957

Great Lady by Evyan, launched in 1957, represents a sophisticated evolution in the world of fragrance, crafted by the esteemed Baron Walter Langer von Langendorff, or Dr. Walter Langer, renowned for his creation of the iconic White Shoulders perfume and his leadership of Evyan Perfumes.

The name "Great Lady" was chosen to embody the essence of grace, elegance, and timeless sophistication. In English, "Great Lady" signifies a woman of distinguished stature and refined presence, evoking images of regal poise and aristocratic charm. This title suggests a perfume that celebrates not only beauty but also the commanding, influential aura of a truly remarkable woman.

In the 1950s, "Great Lady" would have resonated deeply with women of the time, a period marked by a post-war renaissance in luxury and fashion. The name aligns with the era’s fascination with grandeur and opulence, reflecting societal aspirations and the desire for sophistication. Women in this period were embracing bold, glamorous styles, and a perfume named "Great Lady" would have complemented their refined tastes and aspirations.

c1967 ad