Calypso by Robert Piguet c1949

Launched in 1949, Calypso by Robert Piguet embodies a sense of exotic allure and timeless elegance. The name "Calypso," derived from Greek mythology, refers to the nymph who detained Odysseus on her island, captivated by her beauty and charm. This name evokes images of enchanting landscapes, seductive allure, and a touch of the mythical, suggesting a fragrance that is both captivating and enigmatic.

The term "Calypso" in fragrance conjures an essence of mystery and allure, much like the nymph herself. The name suggests a perfume that would offer a sophisticated blend of aromas, designed to enchant and mesmerize, leaving a lasting impression. Women of the late 1940s, a period marked by a resurgence of elegance and glamour after World War II, would have related to Calypso as a symbol of opulence and sophistication. The fragrance's name aligned with the post-war desire for escape and romance, capturing the imagination of women looking to embrace a sense of luxury and exoticism.

During this era, the fragrance industry was transitioning from the heavy, opulent scents of the earlier decades to lighter, more refined compositions. Calypso, classified as a spicy floral fragrance, stood out with its unique blend of rich, exotic spices and elegant floral notes. While many perfumes of the time adhered to traditional, classic styles, Calypso offered a modern twist with its spicy and floral elements, positioning it as both contemporary and distinctive. Its launch reflects a shift towards more complex and layered scents, catering to the tastes of a new generation eager for innovation in their fragrance experiences.

Casbah by Robert Piguet c2012

Casbah by Robert Piguet: launched in 2012, created by Aurelien Guichard.

From Robert Piguet Parfums:

"Robert Piguet Parfums invites you for a magic carpet ride to Morocco with Casbah, an evocative and mesmerizing fragrance."

So what does it smell like? It is a Spicy Oriental fragrance for both men and women. 

• Top notes: angelica, nutmeg and black pepper
• Middle notes: incense, tobacco and orris root
• Base notes: vetiver and cedar

This fragrance is very similar in scent to three fragrances from the Comme des Garçons Incense Series: Ouarzazate, Avignon and Jaisalmer.

Visa by Robert Piguet c1945

Visa by Robert Piguet, launched in 1945, carries a name that evokes a sense of sophistication and exclusivity. The word "Visa," derived from Latin, means "view" or "sight," and is used in modern times to refer to an official authorization for travel. In the context of perfume, "Visa" suggests a gateway to a new sensory experience, a fragrant passport to a world of luxury and allure. This name was likely chosen to evoke a sense of global elegance and cosmopolitan charm, aligning with the post-war era's burgeoning sense of freedom and exploration.

The name "Visa" would have appealed to women of the time as it symbolized both adventure and sophistication, reflecting the post-World War II era’s optimism and the renewed interest in luxury and refinement. In scent, "Visa" translates to a rich, opulent experience, combining elements of leather, chypre, and oriental notes to create a fragrance that is both assertive and intimate. It would have been perceived as a scent for the modern, confident woman who desired to make a strong impression.

Created by the renowned perfumers Jean Carles and Germaine Cellier, Visa fits within the 1940s perfume landscape but stands out for its bold composition. While the period was characterized by classic floral and aldehydic fragrances, Visa’s leathery chypre oriental profile was innovative and daring. It offered a departure from the more delicate scents of the time, reflecting a more profound and complex olfactory experience. This fragrance’s use of robust leather and rich oriental spices was both pioneering and aligned with the era’s evolving tastes towards more dramatic and layered fragrances.

Futur by Robert Piguet c1960

Launched in 1960, Futur by Robert Piguet marked a bold and visionary statement in the world of fragrance. The name "Futur," derived from the French word for "future," encapsulates a sense of forward-thinking and innovation. In choosing this name, Robert Piguet likely sought to evoke a sense of modernity and progress, aligning the perfume with the emerging trends and aspirations of the era. The word "Futur" conjures images of a new horizon, suggesting an avant-garde vision that breaks away from tradition.

The term "Futur" conveys a sense of anticipation and possibility, painting a picture of the future with its promise of new experiences and discoveries. In the context of a fragrance, this name implies a scent that is ahead of its time, blending contemporary elements with an innovative approach. For women of the early 1960s, a perfume named "Futur" would have resonated as a symbol of modern elegance and sophistication, appealing to those who embraced the shifting cultural landscape and sought to reflect this in their personal style.

Created by Aurelien Guichard, Futur is classified as a floral green woody fragrance, embodying a spring-like freshness with its blend of vibrant citruses, romantic florals, and rich woody undertones. The fragrance opens with a burst of fresh citruses, evoking the crisp and invigorating qualities of the new season. This is seamlessly followed by a heart of delicate flowers, adding a touch of romance and softness. The base reveals opulent woody nuances, grounding the fragrance in a sense of sophistication and depth.

In the context of the 1960s, a time characterized by a shift towards more modern and experimental fragrances, Futur was both innovative and reflective of the era's evolving tastes. While the period saw the rise of bold and unconventional scents, Futur distinguished itself with its unique blend of freshness and complexity, capturing the spirit of a time eager to embrace the future while celebrating the enduring beauty of nature.

Fracas by Robert Piguet c1945

Launched in France in 1945 and introduced to the United States by 1948, Fracas by Robert Piguet quickly became an iconic fragrance, leaving an indelible mark on the world of perfumery. The name "Fracas," pronounced "fruh-CAH" in French, is a curious and deliberate choice. The word "Fracas" itself is French, meaning a loud noise, uproar, or commotion—terms that evoke a sense of drama, intensity, and disruption. In selecting this name, Robert Piguet likely sought to convey the idea that this fragrance was not just another perfume, but a bold statement that would command attention and provoke strong emotions.

The imagery and emotions associated with the word "Fracas" are vivid and powerful. It suggests an explosion of sensation, a burst of energy that breaks through the ordinary. In the context of a scent, "Fracas" would be interpreted as a perfume that is unapologetically bold and vibrant—one that creates an unforgettable impression and perhaps even stirs up a bit of controversy. For women in the mid-20th century, a perfume named "Fracas" would likely have been seen as daring and avant-garde, appealing to those who were confident and unafraid to make a statement.

The time period in which Fracas was launched was a moment of transition and recovery, as the world emerged from the shadows of World War II. The late 1940s were characterized by a return to glamour and femininity, with fashion and beauty seeking to recapture the elegance that had been put on hold during the war years. Many fragrances of the time were soft and romantic, echoing the desire for comfort and normalcy. However, Fracas, created by the legendary perfumer Germaine Cellier, stood out as a unique offering in this landscape.

Classified as an intense white floral fragrance, Fracas was unlike anything else on the market. While many perfumes of the time embraced a more subdued approach, Fracas was bold, lush, and heady, featuring prominent notes of tuberose—a flower known for its rich, intoxicating scent. This made it a trailblazer, setting it apart from other fragrances and solidifying its place in the pantheon of classic perfumes. Women who chose Fracas were likely those who wanted to embody the newfound spirit of independence and strength that defined the post-war era. It was a fragrance for the modern woman—one who was ready to reclaim her identity and make her presence known.