Menace by Evyan c1943

Enchanting Menace by Evyan, launched in 1950, was originally named "Menace" before being renamed to evoke a more captivating allure. The name "Menace" might initially suggest a provocative or daring quality, hinting at a fragrance with an edge of intrigue. However, the renaming to "Enchanting Menace" in 1950 aimed to soften this initial impression, adding a layer of allure and sophistication. The term "Enchanting" suggests a spellbinding, irresistible quality, creating a contrast with the more ominous "Menace" and thereby enhancing the fragrance’s complex character. This juxtaposition conjures images of a scent that is both alluring and enigmatic, with a charm that might be subtly beguiling or intriguingly complex.

"Menace is now called Enchanting Menace (do we detect a nomenclatural boomerang here?), but, whatever its name, it still has an insouciant and merry air about it."

During the early 1950s, the fragrance market was evolving with a focus on bold, innovative scents that reflected the changing social landscape. The post-war era saw a shift towards more sophisticated and exotic fragrances, often featuring complex compositions that combined traditional floral elements with new, avant-garde ingredients. In this context, Enchanting Menace stood out as a unique offering. Classified as a powdery aldehydic green floral, it reflected the period’s fascination with both cutting-edge synthetic components and classic, opulent floral notes.

The fragrance’s powdery aldehydic character was aligned with contemporary trends, as aldehydes became increasingly popular for their ability to create a sparkling, effervescent opening. The inclusion of green notes, alongside a rich floral heart and a sophisticated base, added depth and elegance, appealing to a sense of refinement that was highly prized in the 1950s. The descriptor "sophisticated," "exotic," and "heady" aptly captures the perfume’s character—an evocative blend of freshness and complexity that was both modern and timeless, mirroring the era’s broader aesthetic trends in perfumery.

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

White Shoulders by Evyan c1940

White Shoulders, launched by Evyan in 1940, is a fragrance steeped in elegance and evocative of a particular moment in social history. The name "White Shoulders" is said to have been inspired by a compliment given to Lady Evyan during a dinner party. A guest, admiring her off-the-shoulder evening gown, remarked on her "beautiful white shoulders." Alternatively, another account suggests that the Duke of Marlborough raised his glass in a toast, celebrating "the whitest shoulders I have ever seen." Regardless of the exact source, these anecdotes underscore the perfume’s association with grace and refined beauty.

The term "White Shoulders" evokes imagery of sophistication and understated luxury. The phrase conjures a sense of purity and classic elegance, aligning with the allure of a woman dressed in formal evening attire. For women of the time, the name would have resonated with ideals of feminine grace and high social standing. It suggested a sense of timeless beauty and a certain exclusivity, appealing to those who sought to embody these attributes.

Launched in the early 1940s, White Shoulders was introduced during a period when floral fragrances for women were highly popular. The fragrance industry of that era was dominated by rich, complex scents that often featured floral notes. White Shoulders distinguished itself with a composition that began with a fresh floral top, evolved into a multi-faceted floral heart, and settled into a feminine, subdued, powdery base. While it shared the floral focus common to the period, its refined and layered approach helped it stand out as a classic and sophisticated choice among contemporary offerings.

The perfume's success can be attributed to its alignment with the prevailing trends of the time, combined with its unique appeal to the sensibilities of an era that prized elegance and subtlety in fragrance.

c1948 ad