Le Plus Beau Jour de Ma Vie by Guerlain: launched in 2015. Created by Thierry Wasser.
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Hello and welcome! Please understand that this website is not affiliated with Guerlain in any way, it is only a reference site for collectors and those who have enjoyed the classic fragrances of days gone by. All trademarks belong to their respective owners.
The main objective of this website is to chronicle the 200+ year old history of the Guerlain fragrances and showcase the bottles and advertising used throughout the years. Let this site be your source for information on antique and vintage Guerlain perfumes. Another goal of this website is to show the present owners of the Guerlain company how much we miss many of the discontinued classics and hopefully, if they see that there is enough interest and demand, they will bring back these fragrances!
I invite you to leave a comment below (for example: of why you liked the fragrance, describe the scent, time period or age you wore it, who gave it to you or on what occasion, what it smelled like to you, how it made you feel, any specific memories, what it reminded you of, maybe a relative wore it, or you remembered seeing the bottle on their vanity table), who knows, perhaps someone from the current Guerlain brand might see it.
If you have any questions, please send all images of your bottle and pertinent information directly to me at cleopatrasboudoir@gmail.com. I will try to assist you the best I can.
Thursday, April 16, 2015
Wednesday, April 15, 2015
No. 25 c2002
No. 25 by Guerlain: launched in 2002 as part of the Les Parisiennes line.
This is the perfume Terracotta Voile D'Ete. Created by Jean-Paul Guerlain and Mathilde Laurent. Discontinued by 2001.
This is the perfume Terracotta Voile D'Ete. Created by Jean-Paul Guerlain and Mathilde Laurent. Discontinued by 2001.
- 1999 Terracotta Voile D'Ete (discontinued)
- 2002 No. 25 (discontinued)
- 2005 Quand Vient l'Été
Tuesday, April 14, 2015
Friday, April 10, 2015
Thursday, April 9, 2015
Iris Ganache c2007
Iris Ganache by Guerlain: launched in 2007. Created by Thierry Wasser as part of the L'Art et la Matiere collection.
Friday, March 27, 2015
Idylle Duet c2011
Idylle Duet by Guerlain: launched in 2011. Created by Thierry Wasser. The inspiration came from Les Nuits d'Ete, an 1841 work by Hector Berlioz .The duet in question is the marriage of rose and patchouli.
Monday, March 23, 2015
Thursday, March 19, 2015
ON EBAY!! Vintage 1920s Guerlinade Baccarat Flacon
On Ebay - Vintage 1920s Guerlinade Baccarat Flacon
Measure approx.5" inches *13 cm.bottle high,5,1/2" inches *14 cm.box high.
Click here to see the auctionMeasure approx.5" inches *13 cm.bottle high,5,1/2" inches *14 cm.box high.
Thursday, March 12, 2015
Marechale by Guerlain c1833
Maréchale by Guerlain, launched in 1833, is a perfume that carries a name steeped in historical and cultural significance. The word "Maréchale" is French for "Marshal," a high-ranking military officer. The choice of this name evokes images of authority, honor, and sophistication, reflecting a sense of grandeur and distinction. In the context of fragrance, "Maréchale" suggests a scent that is both commanding and refined, embodying the elegance and prestige associated with military rank.
The name "Maréchale" conjures up visions of regal military uniforms, elaborate ceremonies, and a world of formality and decorum. It resonates with the romanticized image of a distinguished officer whose presence is marked by an air of sophistication and strength. For women of the period, a perfume named "Maréchale" would have been associated with these qualities, suggesting a fragrance that was both potent and sophisticated, perhaps reflecting the valor and refinement of a Marshal.
In the early 19th century, when "Maréchale" was launched, the perfume industry was in a state of transition. The period was marked by an increasing interest in complex and sophisticated scents, moving beyond the simpler, single-note fragrances of earlier decades. Guerlain's creation of "Maréchale" would have aligned with this trend, offering a fragrance that was both unique and reflective of the era's evolving tastes.
The origins of "Maréchal" trace back to 1669, when it was originally created as a sachet powder for Madame La Maréchal d'Aumont, wife of Antoine, Marshal of France. This powder was designed to complement her hair color and was used to powder her coiffure. Its composition included powdered elecampane root and vetiver, which were also featured in other fragrances of the time, such as Guerlain’s own Bouquet du Roi. The original formulation, known as Poudre à la Maréchal, combined rose, elecampane, vetiver, iris, cloves, violet, orange, lavender, and marjoram, creating a scent that was as layered and complex as the Marshal’s own esteemed position.
By launching "Maréchale" in 1833, Guerlain not only paid homage to this historical fragrance but also tapped into the era's growing appreciation for nuanced and elaborate scents. The fragrance likely embodied the rich and varied notes of its predecessor, delivering a perfume that was both sophisticated and evocative of the distinguished character implied by its name.
Tuesday, March 10, 2015
Bouquet du Jardin du Roi c1890
Bouquet du Jardin du Roi by Guerlain: launched around 1828. The name means Bouquet of the King's Garden in French.
Monday, March 9, 2015
Unter den Linden c1850s
Unter den Linden by Guerlain, introduced in the 1850s, carries a name steeped in evocative imagery and historical significance. The name Unter den Linden translates from German to "Under the Linden Trees," referencing a famous boulevard in Berlin’s Mitte district. This tree-lined avenue, known for its serene, grassy mall and the grand linden trees that shade its pathways, evokes a sense of elegant tranquility and refined urban beauty.
The choice of this name for Guerlain’s fragrance suggests a deliberate effort to capture the essence of this iconic location. The imagery conjured by Unter den Linden is one of leisurely strolls beneath the dappled light of lush linden trees, a setting that blends natural splendor with sophisticated city life. In scent, Unter den Linden would likely be interpreted as an attempt to encapsulate the delicate, fresh aroma of linden blossoms. Linden flowers are known for their soft, sweet fragrance with subtle honeyed undertones, which would have appealed to those seeking a refined and soothing floral experience.
Women of the 19th century encountering Unter den Linden would have been drawn to its elegant and evocative name, associating it with the cultured and leisurely pursuits of high society. The fragrance would resonate with a sense of sophistication and grace, reflecting the period’s growing appreciation for nuanced and complex scents.
During the 1850s, the fragrance market was evolving rapidly, with increasing experimentation in scent formulation. Unter den Linden fits within this context as part of a broader trend of creating floral compositions that highlighted both natural and newly synthesized elements. Early formulas for Unter den Linden would have utilized natural extracts, infusions, and tinctures to achieve the fresh, floral aroma of linden blossoms. As the century progressed, the introduction of synthetic compounds such as coumarin and heliotropin began to influence perfume creation, enabling more consistent and enduring representations of delicate floral notes.
In summary, Unter den Linden was more than just a fragrance; it was a sensory homage to a beloved Berlin boulevard, designed to evoke the timeless beauty and sophistication associated with its namesake.
Sunday, March 8, 2015
L'Instant d'Un Ete c2006
L'Instant d'Un Ete by Guerlain: launched in 2006.
So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral oriental fragrance for women.
So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral oriental fragrance for women.
- Top notes: grapefruit, bitter orange
- Middle notes: magnolia, jasmine, ylang-ylang
- Base notes: vanilla, benzoin and musk
It is available as eau de toilette.
Friday, March 6, 2015
Le Présentoir à Secrets c2013
Le Présentoir à Secrets - was one of several special presentations created in 2013 to mark the 160th anniversary of the creation of the bee bottle, known as the Abeille flacon.
Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.
The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online.
Ludwig Vogelgesang, Maître d’art – Class of 2010. A cabinet maker who specialised in the discerning restoration of luxurious antique Art Deco furniture, originally designed by such notables as Ruhlman, Groult, Franck. His exquisite taste and astute style is sought after not only by renowned interior designers, galleries and museums, but by discriminating private collectors as well.
Guerlain commissioned nine “Maîtres d’art” of the Institut National des Métiers d’Art of France. Giving them full artistic freedom to create whatever they could envision to centre around a one litre bee bottle. The resulting incarnations are truly the epitome of one of a kind masterpieces.
The unique bottles were on display at the Maison Guerlain, 68, Champs-Élysées, from the 10th of December 2013 to the 14th of February 2014 and were showcased in photo and video exhibitions in Guerlain’s Exclusive Line Doors in 2014. They will be sold to help fund the “Maîtres d’art – Students” project, in which master artists pass down rare and exceptional skills to apprentices, overseen by the Institut National des Métiers d’Art (INMA). You can read more about the INMA online.
Ludwig Vogelgesang, Maître d’art – Class of 2010. A cabinet maker who specialised in the discerning restoration of luxurious antique Art Deco furniture, originally designed by such notables as Ruhlman, Groult, Franck. His exquisite taste and astute style is sought after not only by renowned interior designers, galleries and museums, but by discriminating private collectors as well.
From Guerlain:
“Le Présentoir à Secrets” (“The Display Case with Secrets”)
This precious cylindrical sculpture unites two luxurious materials: ivory shagreen and brown rosewood. On its façade, the rare wood traces and outlines the honeycombs. A few small and painstakingly sculpted bees act as clever handles for hidden drawers that can be used to hide one’s treasures. Like crowns, two carved friezes adorn the base and top of this delicate piece. The imperial bottle reigns from the top of the case on a radiant shagreen tray.
Saturday, February 28, 2015
ON EBAY!! Vintage 1920s DJEDI Parfum Baccarat Flacon with Box
On ebay this week!! Vintage 1920s Djedi Parfum Extrait in Baccarat crystal bottle with original box. There is about 25% of the original perfume still inside. Base of bottle has the Baccarat acid stamp. Bottle stands 3.5" tall.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Idylle Love Blossom c2014
Idylle Love Blossom by Guerlain: launched in 2014. Created by Thierry Wasser. It is a limited edition fragrance found only at exclusive international airports.
Sunday, February 22, 2015
L`Instant Magic Elixir c2009
L`Instant Magic Elixir by Guerlain: launched in 2009.
So what does it smell like? t is classified as a Floral Woody Musk fragrance for women.
So what does it smell like? t is classified as a Floral Woody Musk fragrance for women.
- Top notes: bitter almond
- Middle notes: orchid
- Base notes: white musk and Tahitian vanilla
Unfortunately, this fragrance has been discontinued by Guerlain.
.
Wednesday, February 18, 2015
ON EBAY!!! Vintage 1990s Guerlain Perfume Dramming Case
This is only the second known case that I have seen. This is a very rare, Guerlain perfume organ used across the United States in retail stores at some Guerlain perfume counters to dram perfume into mini bottles as a gift with a Guerlain perfume purchase in the early 1990's - 1996 to be exact. Each bottle size is approximately 8 fluid ounces, has a label, and a glass dropper with a rubber top.
The faux blue leather box (outside measurements are 16 & 1/2 inches wide, 16 & 1/2 inches tall, and a little over 6 & 1/2 inches deep), the interior has an upper row and a lower row for the bottles, the inside back is a plastic mirror. Each bottle is held in place by a metal clamp secured against the back. There are slots for 24 bottles, however only 19 have survived over the years. The latches have a key hole, but no keys.
The fragrances are as follows along with the date written on the label which is the date of the scent's creation;
Click HERE to view auctionThe faux blue leather box (outside measurements are 16 & 1/2 inches wide, 16 & 1/2 inches tall, and a little over 6 & 1/2 inches deep), the interior has an upper row and a lower row for the bottles, the inside back is a plastic mirror. Each bottle is held in place by a metal clamp secured against the back. There are slots for 24 bottles, however only 19 have survived over the years. The latches have a key hole, but no keys.
The fragrances are as follows along with the date written on the label which is the date of the scent's creation;
- Eau de Cologne Imperiale 1853 - 1/2 full
- Shalimar 1925 - 7/8 full
- Champs Elysees 1996 - 1/2 full
- Samsara 1989 - 1/4 full
- Mitsouko 1919 - 1/5 full
- Jicky 1989 - almost 1/2 full
- L'Heure Bleue 1912 - 1/3 full
- Eau de Fleur de Cedrat 1920 - 1/4 full
- Eau de Guerlain 1974 - 1/2 full
- Eau de Cologne du Coq 1894 - over 1/2 full
- Jardins de Bagatelle 1983 - 1/6 full
- Vol du Nuit 1933 - 1/2 full
- Chamade 1969 - 1/5 full
- Apres L'Ondee 1906 - 1/2 full
- Nahema 1979 - 1/3 full
- Parure 1975 - almost 1/6 full
- Habit Rouge 1965 - over 1/2 full (small chip on opening of bottle)
- Vetiver 1959 - almost 1/3 full
- Heritage 1992- 1/3 full (small chip on end of dropper)
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Monday, February 16, 2015
La Route de la Soie - Limited Editions c1999
In 1999, Guerlain issued Samsara, Champs Elysées, and Shalimar in limited edition boxes and bottles for a new collection called La Roue de la Soie, or the Silk Road.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
ON EBAY!! Guerlain Limited Edition Signed by Roja Dove c1998
ON EBAY THIS WEEK!! Guerlain Limited Edition Flacon Signed by Roja Dove c1998. Roja Dove worked with Guerlain for nearly 20 years; after a number of years he was honoured with the position of Global Ambassador, the first non-Guerlain family member to be given the role, and eventually became known by the industry as the world's sole Professeur de Parfum.
Click HERE to see GuerlinadeTuesday, February 10, 2015
ON EBAY! Rue de la Paix Parfum
Here are several bottles of the rare perfume Rue de la Paix by Guerlain listed on ebay this week.
Click HERE to see ebay listing
Click HERE to see ebay listing #2
Click HERE to see ebay listing #3
Rue de la Paix: Created by Jacques Guerlain in 1908. Possibly only in USA in 1922.
What does it smell like? It is classified as a soft floral fragrance for women.
Still available for sale in 1955. Discontinued (date unknown)
What does it smell like? It is classified as a soft floral fragrance for women.
- Top notes: bergamot, orange blossom
- Middle notes: jasmine, rose, peach, lilac, carnation
- Base notes: sandalwood, orris, ambergris, musk
Still available for sale in 1955. Discontinued (date unknown)
Thursday, February 5, 2015
ON EBAY!! Vintage 1940s A Travers Champs in Baccarat Quadrilobe Flacon with Box
ON EBAY!! Vintage 1940s A Travers Champs in Baccarat Quadrilobe Flacon with Box. This is a rare find and still has perfume inside.
Vintage A Travers Champs Parfum Extrait FlaconON EBAY! Vintage 2.7 oz Shalimar Parfum Extrait Bottle
Measuring approx. 6 3/8” tall x 4 1/4” wide x 2” deep (at the top), this is a huge vintage bottle of Shalimar perfume.
Vintage Shalimar 2.7 oz Parfum Extrait FlaconON EBAY! - L'Heure Bleue Wartime Bottle - Scarce
On eBay this week - Vintage Guerlain Perfume Bottle L' Heure Bleue, 80 CC War Time Edition 1938-1945. Bottle is 4 1/4" in height and 2 1/2" in width at largest point. Bottle on base has paper label "80 CC".
L'Heure Bleue Wartime FlaconWednesday, February 4, 2015
Gouttes Parfumées - Scented Pocket Drops
Guerlain's Gouttes Parfumées (Scented Pocket Drops) were small, pocket sized glass tubes holding perfume. The cylindrical vials were topped by ground glass ball stoppers. These bottles are very rare and can be very hard to find. They most likely date to around 1860s-1880s.
Some perfumes that could be found: Spring Flowers, Fleurs de Serre, Frangipane, and more.
Some perfumes that could be found: Spring Flowers, Fleurs de Serre, Frangipane, and more.
Creme Patti by Guerlain
Creme Patti by Guerlain was a face cream used to fade age spots or freckles and to whiten the complexion. It was sold in porcelain jars. The cream was named after the famous singer Miss Adelina Patti.
The Pall Mall Budget: Being a Weekly Collection of Articles, 1887:
Town Topics, the Journal of Society, 1893:
You can read more about Madame Patti's Cold Cream here.
Public Opinion, Volume 3, 1887:
"It is said that Mme Patti has not washed her face for years. She believes that the use of water upon the face brings wrinkles and only cold cream or what is known as the bath of Isis composed rose water and glycerine. French women who are enameled never allow water to touch their face shoulders or arms. They wipe them dry with a towel every morning and then with a soft small sponge rub on an ointment that is prepared for the purpose rubbing it out again with square of very fine white flannel."
"Does Mdme Patti wash her Face? Is the New York paper which alleged that Mdme Patti never washed her face with soap but used cold cream instead for fear of wrinkles is a mendacious print. We have seen the original of the famous letter which the great prima donna addressed to the Messrs Pears It runs in this wise I have found Pears soap matchless for the hands and ramplexz on We might have overlooked the fact had not the alert soap makers addressed the following letter to us We observe in your issue of the 1st inst your query Is Mdme Patti s face never washed? This question we can answer emphatically authoritatively and affirmatively Mdme Patti is especially particular in respect of her choice of toilet soap and we have for years supplied her. In order that you may publicly deny the truth of the statement in the American paragraph that Mdme Patti's face is unacquainted with soap we enclose herewith for your perusal an autograph letter from Mdme Patti respecting the advantages resulting to her complexion from the use of a soap which we need not particularize. We know at any rate that Messrs Pears send the soap whatever becomes of it."
Town Topics, the Journal of Society, 1893:
"To keep your powder on, there is one famous article from Guerlain's, called "Creme Patti." The Comtesse de B. always uses it, and she is certainly the best-arranged woman in France. You put it on all over your face and rub it well in."
Tuesday, February 3, 2015
Bouquet de Jenny Lind by Guerlain c1848
Bouquet de Jenny Lind by Guerlain, introduced in 1848, was a tribute to the renowned Swedish opera singer Jenny Lind, affectionately known as the "Swedish Nightingale." Jenny Lind gained international acclaim for her exceptional vocal talent and captivating stage presence, earning her a place in the annals of musical history. Her fame and reputation made her a fitting muse for a perfume, as her name symbolized grace, beauty, and a soaring artistry that resonated across Europe.
The name "Bouquet de Jenny Lind" translates from French to "Bouquet of Jenny Lind." This title evokes a sense of elegance and refinement, conjuring images of a lavish floral arrangement dedicated to the celebrated singer. The term "bouquet" implies a carefully curated selection of flowers, reflecting the artistry and craftsmanship involved in creating a perfume that embodies the sophistication and charm of its namesake. The addition of "Jenny Lind" personalizes the fragrance, linking it to a figure synonymous with grace and vocal excellence.
In scent, "Bouquet de Jenny Lind" would likely be interpreted as a complex and harmonious floral composition. The fragrance may aim to capture the delicate yet powerful essence of Lind's performances, offering a bouquet that is both rich and nuanced. Women of the time would have associated the perfume with the same qualities that made Jenny Lind famous—elegance, refinement, and a touch of dramatic allure. The name would evoke a sense of high society and cultural sophistication, aligning the wearer with the grandeur and distinction of the opera singer herself.
The mid-19th century was a period of rich experimentation and refinement in perfumery. When "Bouquet de Jenny Lind" was launched, the fragrance industry was becoming more sophisticated, with an increasing emphasis on creating unique and memorable compositions. Guerlain's choice to name the perfume after Jenny Lind was a nod to the growing trend of honoring prominent cultural figures through fragrance, a trend exemplified by Eugène Rimmel's own dedication to the singer just a year earlier. While Guerlain's offering was part of a broader movement of personalized and high-quality perfumes, its connection to a celebrated figure of the time added an extra layer of prestige and appeal, setting it apart from other offerings on the market.
Habit Rouge Sport c2009
Habit Rouge Sport by Guerlain: launched in spring of 2009.
Habit Rouge Sport will be available from March 2009 as EDT.
So what does it smell like? It is classified as an aromatic citrus fragrance for men.
Habit Rouge Sport is available as an eau de toilette.
Discontinued in 2015.
Habit Rouge Sport will be available from March 2009 as EDT.
So what does it smell like? It is classified as an aromatic citrus fragrance for men.
- Top notes: lime, bitter orange, pink pepper
- Middle notes: bamboo, rose, jasmine, patchouli
- Base notes: vanilla, leather, woody notes, musk
Habit Rouge Sport is available as an eau de toilette.
Discontinued in 2015.
Monday, February 2, 2015
International Perfume Bottle Association's 25th Anniversary - Limited Edition Shalimar
Special edition created exclusively for the International Perfume Bottle Association's 25th Anniversary. Familiar white bee bottle adorned with a gilded necklace with lapis cabochon pendants wrapped around the neck. A shiny gold foil label commemorates the club's success. This was a limited piece of only 20 examples given to members. This edition is nearly identical to the 2012 limited edition collector's bottle called the Imperial Bijoux de Shalimar, which also sported the lapis pendants.
The International Perfume Bottle Association (IPBA) is an organization of collectors of perfume bottles and related fragrance items covering all time periods from antiquity to the present. It is a 501c3 nonprofit corporation. It is run by an elected Board of Directors, who are all volunteers. The purpose of the IPBA is to provide information about all aspects of this collecting field including identification, uses, history, and manufacture, and to promote fellowship among members. The IPBA represents education, collecting and camaraderie. All members, whether beginners or experienced collectors, are greatly welcome.
IPBA member collectors and dealers from the U.S. and overseas embrace all aspects of this wonderful art form—early American and European, Victorian, French and American Commercials, Minis, Art Nouveau and Art Deco atomizers, Czechoslovakian, Art Glass, Novelties, and others. In addition, related categories of vanity items (such as powder compacts, lipsticks, and ladies purses) are included.
Please click here for more information.
The International Perfume Bottle Association (IPBA) is an organization of collectors of perfume bottles and related fragrance items covering all time periods from antiquity to the present. It is a 501c3 nonprofit corporation. It is run by an elected Board of Directors, who are all volunteers. The purpose of the IPBA is to provide information about all aspects of this collecting field including identification, uses, history, and manufacture, and to promote fellowship among members. The IPBA represents education, collecting and camaraderie. All members, whether beginners or experienced collectors, are greatly welcome.
IPBA member collectors and dealers from the U.S. and overseas embrace all aspects of this wonderful art form—early American and European, Victorian, French and American Commercials, Minis, Art Nouveau and Art Deco atomizers, Czechoslovakian, Art Glass, Novelties, and others. In addition, related categories of vanity items (such as powder compacts, lipsticks, and ladies purses) are included.
Please click here for more information.
Sunday, February 1, 2015
Imperial Bijoux de Shalimar c2012
For the 160th anniversary of the Bon Marche Rive Gauche department store, Guerlain created a limited edition of Shalimar called "The Imperial Bijoux de Shalimar."
Shalimar Eau de Parfum is housed inside of a 250ml white bee flacon that is decorated by a necklace suggestive of the jewelry worn by Indian princesses. The brass necklace, created by Sylvia Toledano, features two lapis lazuli pendants. Lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone coming from India and is a deep, cobalt blue color with flecks of gold.
The limited edition flacon retailed for 450 euros.
Shalimar Eau de Parfum is housed inside of a 250ml white bee flacon that is decorated by a necklace suggestive of the jewelry worn by Indian princesses. The brass necklace, created by Sylvia Toledano, features two lapis lazuli pendants. Lapis lazuli, a semi-precious stone coming from India and is a deep, cobalt blue color with flecks of gold.
The limited edition flacon retailed for 450 euros.
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