Fleurs Precieuse by Caron c1910

Fleurs Precieuse by Caron: launched in 1910. Contrary to contemporary belief, Precieuse was not an individual fragrance in itself but was a line of three floral fragrances by Caron called Les Fleurs Precieuses. It included: Violette Precieuse, Rose Precieuse and Jacinthe Precieuse. Ernest Daltroff lent his expertise to the creation of these precious fragrances. In a 1913 ad, it states that they were presented in "artistic opaque bottles."

Narcisse Blanc by Caron c1913

Narcisse Blanc by Caron: launched in 1913.  Created by Ernest Daltroff.

Mimosa by Caron c1910

In 1910, when Parfums Caron launched "Mimosa," Europe was still under the enchanting spell of the Belle Epoque, a period characterized by optimism, artistic flourish, and a celebration of beauty and luxury. This era saw a blossoming of cultural movements, from Art Nouveau to the emergence of modernism in art, music, and fashion. Against this backdrop, the choice of naming a perfume "Mimosa" holds significant poetic and sensory appeal.

The name "Mimosa" itself evokes images of delicate yellow blooms, known for their fragility and sweet, powdery scent. Mimosa flowers symbolize sensitivity, femininity, and the ephemeral nature of beauty, fitting seamlessly into the Belle Epoque aesthetic which revered these qualities. The perfume likely aimed to capture the essence of these flowers, offering wearers a glimpse into a world of elegance and refinement.

Mimosa as a scent for a perfume is particularly intriguing due to its unique olfactory profile. The flower's fragrance is often described as powdery, with hints of green freshness and a subtle sweetness. Such a composition would have appealed to those seeking a fragrance that conveyed sophistication without overwhelming, aligning perfectly with the tastes of the time.

The audience for a perfume named "Mimosa" would have been predominantly women of the upper classes, who indulged in luxury and appreciated fine fragrances as part of their daily adornment. They would have responded to Mimosa positively, seeing it not only as a scent but as an accessory that complemented their fashionable attire and reflected their refined tastes.

Emotionally, the word "Mimosa" conjures feelings of delicacy, grace, and nostalgia for a bygone era of elegance and beauty. It suggests a connection to nature and a desire to capture its fleeting essence in a bottle, making it a poetic choice for a perfume name during the Belle Epoque.

Choosing "Mimosa" as a perfume name was likely a strategic move by Parfums Caron. It aligned with the artistic and cultural sensibilities of the time, resonating with both the imagery associated with the flower and the desires of its affluent clientele. Far from being out of touch, "Mimosa" would have been seen as a fitting and evocative name, capturing the spirit of an era where art, nature, and beauty intertwined harmoniously.

Parfum Radiant c1913

Parfum Radiant: created in 1913.

Poivre by Caron c1954

Poivre by Caron: launched in 1954. The name means "Pepper" in French. Created by Michel Morsetti.

N'Aimez Que Moi by Caron c1916

N'Aimez Que Moi by Caron: launched in 1916. Pronounced "NEH-MEH-KUH-MWAH", the name means "Love Only Me" in French. It was reportedly created as a gift that soldiers during WWI could give to their sweethearts.

Tabac Blond by Caron c1919

Tabac Blond: created in 1919. Pronounced "TAH-BAH-BLAWN", its name means "blond tobacco " in French. Created by Ernest Daltroff. It was a unique perfume, because at that time it was the only the only feminine fragrance with tobacco notes.

Le Muguet du Bonheur by Caron c1952

Muguet du Bonheur by Caron: launched in 1952.

Nocturnes by Caron c1980

Nocturnes by Caron: launched in Europe in May of 1980. Introduced to the USA in September 1981.  

Caron, known for a line of perfumes including Bellodgia, introduced Nocturnes de Caron, its first new perfume since Infini in 1970. The English translation of the word “Nocturne," is “nocturnal, nightly; of night”. Created by Roger Pellégrino of Firmenich. The fragrance reportedly took ten years of blending to get it just right.

It was sold at higher end department stores such as Neiman Marcus, Lord & Taylor, B. Altman, Bloomingdales, Saks Fifth Avenue, Henri Bendel, Bergdorf Goodman and Macys.

Narcisse Noir by Caron c1911

Narcisse Noir by Caron: launched in 1911. Created by Ernest Daltroff. Pronounced "NAR-SEESE-NWAR", the name means "black narcissus" in French.

La Fete des Roses by Caron c1936

La Fete des Roses (The Festival of Roses) by Caron was launched in 1936. Created by Ernest Daltroff.

With Pleasure by Caron c1949

With Pleasure by Caron: launched in 1949. Created by Michel Morsetti.

Or et Noir by Caron c1949

Or et Noir by Caron: launched in 1949. Pronounced "OR-AY-NWAR", the name means "gold and black" in French. Created by Michel Morsetti, in homage to Ernest Daltroff and the tradition of Parfums Caron.

Fleurs de Rocaille c1933

Fleurs de Rocaille by Caron: launched in 1933 (1934 in USA). Pronounced "FLERR-DUH-ROCK-EYE", the name means  'rock garden flowers in French. It was created by Ernest Daltroff.

Caron Perfume Tester Racks

Nice looking vintage tester racks for Caron perfumes, the first example is in ivory Bakelite, the second example is made up of black and clear lucite. the perfumes shown are La Nuit de Noel, Le Narcisse Noir, Fleurs de Rocaille, Bellodgia, 

This is a store perfume tester set for Caron. There are 6 bottles in a black lucite holder with CARON in gold on both sides. To remove the bottles from the display you unscrew the gold knobs on each side and the piece lifts up, otherwise the bottles are locked down so they won't tip over or fall out. The perfumes are Le Narcisse Noir, Le Tabac Blond, Nuit de Noel, Muguet de Bonheur, Fleurs de Rocaile and Bellodgia.Photo from worthopedia.

Vintage Caron mini perfume bottle display. I believe this was a store counter display because the only way to access the bottles is to unscrew the gold knobs at each end and lift off the piece that reads "Caron." None of the 4 bottles have labels or marks of any kind. Each contains a glass dauber for testing the perfume. The bottles measure 2 1/4" tall. The base of the display measures 7" by 2 1/2". Photo from worthopedia

Parfum Sacre c1989

Parfum Sacre by Caron: launched in 1989, in USA in 1991. Created by Jean-Pierre Bethouart of Firmenich.

Caron Perfumes 1942 Advertisement

French Can-Can by Caron c1936

In 1936, Parfums Caron launched "French Can-Can," a fragrance that captures the lively spirit of the famed Parisian dance. The 1930s were a time of both turmoil and innovation, with the lingering effects of the Great Depression influencing global economies and cultures. In France, the era was marked by a mix of political instability and artistic flourishing, where the allure of Paris as a center of culture and fashion remained undiminished.

The "French Can-Can" refers to a high-energy and risqué dance that originated in the 1830s in Parisian dance halls, particularly at the Moulin Rouge. It is characterized by its high kicks, splits, and cartwheels, performed to fast-paced music. The dance was both scandalous and thrilling, symbolizing the liberation and joie de vivre of Parisian nightlife. For Parfums Caron, choosing the name "French Can-Can" for their perfume was a strategic decision to evoke the vivacious and glamorous spirit of Paris. This name was designed to appeal particularly to American women, who were enchanted by the romantic and stylish image of Paris.

"French Can-Can" makes an excellent name for a perfume because it instantly conjures images of excitement, elegance, and bold femininity. The name suggests a fragrance that is lively, sensual, and unapologetically confident—qualities that resonate with the energetic and adventurous spirit of the dance. For women in the 1930s, especially American women, this name would evoke a sense of escapism and fantasy, transporting them to the vibrant dance halls of Paris where glamour and allure reigned supreme.

The perfume "French Can-Can" would have particularly appealed to women who sought to embody or experience the charm and sophistication associated with Parisian culture. These women would likely respond to the perfume with a sense of nostalgia and aspiration, desiring to capture some of the magic and allure of Paris in their everyday lives. The images evoked by the term "French Can-Can" include the bright lights of the Moulin Rouge, dancers in frilly skirts performing daring moves, and a general atmosphere of celebration and effervescence. The emotions tied to these images include excitement, joy, and a touch of rebellion.

As a name for a perfume, "French Can-Can" was unique and well-suited to the time period. It was not out of touch; rather, it tapped into the prevailing fascination with Parisian culture and the timeless allure of its nightlife. The fragrance, created by Ernest Daltroff, aimed to capture this essence and provide American women with a sensory link to the glamour and romance of Paris, offering them a piece of the city's spirit to wear and cherish.

Farnesiana by Caron c1947

Farnesiana by Caron: launched in 1947. The man who created Farnesiana was Michel Morsetti who started recreating the perfume in 1941, based on Ernest Daltroff's notes.

Miss Rocaille by Caron c2004

Miss Rocaille by Caron: launched in 2004. Created by Richard Fraysse.

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a Floral Green fragrance for women with dominant notes of lush orange flower and aromatic basil.

• Top notes:African orange flower, basil and tangerine
• Middle notes: water lily, sea water and lily-of-the-valley
• Base notes: musk and pistachio

This fragrance is currently discontinued.

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My Ylang by Caron c2013

My Ylang by Caron: launched in 2013.

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

• Top notes: white flowers, jasmine, ylang-ylang, lily-of-the-valley and green rose
• Middle notes: black currant buds (cassis) and mandarin orange
• Base notes: green Madagascan vanilla

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Piu Bellodgia by Caron c2013

Piu Bellodgia by Caron: launched in 2013. Created by Richard Fraysse. When I first saw this perfume's name, I thought why in the world would they call a perfume phew "pee you" Bellodgia, as in it "stinks", but then I did a little research and found that piu means "more" in Italian. Well that makes more sense as the original Bellodgia perfume was made to remind Felicie Vanpouille of her beloved Bellagio, a romantic Italian village near Lake Como flooded with carnations.

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

• Top notes: carnation, rose, jasmine and lily-of-the-valley
• Middle notes: cinnamon and cloves 
• Base notes: cedar, sandalwood and musk

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Montaigne by Caron c2007

Montaigne by Caron: created in 1982. Relaunched in 2007 and created by Richard Fraysse.

L'Infini by Caron c1912

L'Infini by Caron: launched in 1912, and created by Ernest Daltroff.

Perfume List

1904 Royal Emilia, later Royal Caron
1906 Ravissement
1906 Modernis
1906 Chantecler
1906 Bel Amour, reintroduced in 1923
1907 Rarissime
1908 Affolant
1910 Rose Precieux
1910 Isadora
1911 Narcisse Noir
1911 Jacinthe Precieuse
1911 Elegancia
1912 L'Infini, Still available for sale around 1936.
1913 Violette Precieuse
1913 Radiant
1917 N'Aimez Que Moi, Still available for sale around 1936.
1917 Violette, Still available for sale around 1936.
1917 Rose, Still available for sale around 1936.
1917 Mimosa, Still available for sale around 1936.
1917 London Paris
1919 Tabac Blond, Still available for sale around 1936.
1920 La Mode
1921 Mes Jeunes Années
1922 Nuit de Noel, Still available for sale around 1936.
1922 Narcisse Blanc 1922 Bichon Fard, reintroduced in 1928
1923 Acaciosa, Still available for sale around 1936.
1924 Bain de Champagne
1924 Pocahontas
1927 Pois de Senteur de Chez Moi, Still available for sale around 1936.
1927 Bellodgia, Still available for sale around 1936.
1927 Chez Moi
1929 En Avion, Still available for sale around 1936.
1933 Les Rocailles de Caron
1933 Nuit D'Avion
1934 Fleurs de Rocaille, Still available for sale around 1936.
1934 Caron Pour Un Homme
1935 Madame Peau Fine
1935 Les Cent Fards
1936 La Fete de Roses
1936 French Cancan
1936 Adastra
1939 Voeu de Noel
1939 Alpona
1939 Rose de Noel
1941 Royal Bain de Caron/Royal Bain de Champagne
1947 Farnesiana
1948 Tabac Noir
1949 Rose
1949 With Pleasure
1949 Or et Noir
1949 Caron Pour Une Femme (original)
1952 Muguet du Bonheur
1954 Poivre
1954 Coup de Fouet
1970 Infini
1976 Yatagan
1980 Eau de Caron
1982 Nocturnes
1985 The Third Man/Number 3
1986 Montaigne
1990 Parfum Sacre
1993 Fleur de Rocaille
1994 Caron Eau de Cologne
1996 Eau Pure
1996 Aimez-Moi
1997 Eau Fraiche
1999 Eau de Caron Forte
2000 Lady Caron
2000 L'Anarchiste
2003 Tubereuse
2004 Miss Rocaille
2006 Eau de Reglisse Liquorice by Caron
2006 Violette Précieuse (reformulation)
2007 Montaigne
2008 Les Plus Belles Lavandes de Caron
2010 Parfum Sacre Eau de Parfum Intense
2011 Delire de Roses
2011 L'Accord Code 119
2011 Yuzu Man
2011 Secret Oud
2013 Caron Aimez Moi (2013)
2013 Caron My Ylang (2013)
2013 Caron Nocturnes (2013)
2013 Caron Parfum Sacre (2013)
2013 Caron Piu Bellodgia (2013)
2014 Caron Lady Caron (2014)
2014 L'Eau Cologne
2014 L'Eau Pure

L'Anarchiste c2000

L'Anarchiste by Caron: launched in 2000, created by Richard Fraysse.

Jacinthe Precieuse c1911

Jacinthe Precieuse by Caron: launched in 1911. Created by Ernest Daltroff.

Isadora c1910

Isadora by Caron: created in 1910. Named after Isadora Duncan.

Infini c1970

Infini by Caron: launched in 1970. It was created by Gerard Lefortis and as a tribute to space travel. The Sege Mansau book lists Max Gavarry, master perfumer from IFF as the fragrance's composer.

 The name is directly inspired by the 1912 Caron perfume L'Infini by Ernest Daltroff.

The original L'Infini was discontinued, date unknown. Still being sold in 1957. In 1943, the perfume was changed to Infini.

Delire de Roses c2011

Delire de Roses by Caron: launched in 2011. Created by Richard Fraysse.

Nuit de Noel by Caron c1922

Nuit de Noël by Caron: launched in 1922, created by Ernest Daltroff. Pronounced "NUWEE-DUH-NO-EL", the name means "Christmas Night" in French.

Voeu de Noel by Caron c1939

Launched in 1939, Voeu de Noel by Caron is a captivating floral oriental fragrance for women, crafted by the renowned perfumer Ernest Daltroff. This perfume emerged during a period rich with innovation and elegance in the fragrance world. The late 1930s were a time when the art of perfumery was deeply intertwined with the evolving trends in fashion and luxury. The era was characterized by a preference for opulent and complex fragrances, often blending floral and oriental notes to create sophisticated and multi-layered scent profiles. Voeu de Noel, with its floral oriental composition, aligns with this trend while offering a distinctive touch through its rose-centric formulation.

The name Voeu de Noel translates to "Christmas Wish" in English. This choice of name reflects a sentiment of hope and celebration, which was particularly poignant in the context of the late 1930s. The period was marked by a sense of anticipation and renewal as the world emerged from the uncertainties of the pre-war years. By naming the fragrance Voeu de Noel, Caron evoked images of festive cheer, romance, and the warmth of the holiday season. The name suggests a fragrance that embodies the spirit of giving and the joy of celebration, aligning with the emotional resonance associated with Christmas.

The choice of this name was quite unique for its time, as it directly connected the perfume to a specific holiday theme, which was less common in the industry. This thematic naming would have been evocative, appealing to consumers' desires for luxury and festive spirit. Voeu de Noel thus stood out as a distinct offering among its contemporaries, which often had names focused on abstract or exotic concepts rather than seasonal or emotionally charged themes.

In terms of cultural context, the late 1930s saw a variety of artistic and cinematic themes that resonated with notions of elegance and celebration. Films of the era, such as those showcasing glamorous holiday settings or romantic narratives, would have mirrored the kind of festive allure embodied by Voeu de Noel. The perfume's name and its association with a joyful occasion like Christmas would have been interpreted as a symbol of refined taste and seasonal luxury, making it a memorable and distinctive choice in the perfume market of the time.

La Mode by Caron c1915

The perfume "La Mode" by Caron was launched in 1915, a time characterized by the culmination of the Belle Époque, a period marked by peace, prosperity, and cultural flourishing in Europe. This era, which lasted from the late 19th century until the onset of World War I, was a time of artistic innovation, luxury, and a blossoming of the arts. Fashion during this period was extravagant and elegant, with women adorned in opulent gowns featuring intricate lace, delicate embroidery, and luxurious fabrics such as silk and satin. The styles of the Belle Époque celebrated femininity and sophistication, with a strong emphasis on beauty and refinement.

The name "La Mode" translates to "The Fashion" in English. Parfums Caron likely chose this name to resonate with the fashionable and style-conscious society of the time. Fashion was not merely about clothing but a lifestyle and an art form, symbolizing the epitome of elegance and taste. Naming the perfume "La Mode" positioned it as a quintessential accessory for the fashionable elite, aligning it with the high standards of couture and the sophisticated lifestyle associated with Parisian fashion.

"La Mode" would be an excellent name for a perfume because it directly appeals to the aspirations of those who wish to be seen as stylish and chic. It suggests that wearing this perfume is akin to wearing the latest fashion, thereby offering not just a scent but an experience of being in vogue. The name evokes images of the glamorous salons of Paris, bustling with designers, models, and socialites, all striving to capture the essence of beauty and trendiness.

Pois de Senteur by Caron c1950

Rare amphora bottle, convex curved belly, fully coated with gold (wear) with bell shaped stopper curved, titled. Model designed by Felicie Bergaud. h: 17cm

photo by Pierre Berge

photo by ebay seller milagritos25

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Pour Un Femme de Caron c1949

Pour Un Femme de Caron: launched in 1949, created by Michel Morsetti. 

Chantecler by Caron c1906

In 1906, the time period surrounding the launch of Chantecler by Caron was marked by a fascination with literary and theatrical themes. The name "Chantecler" itself derives from Edmond Rostand's play of the same name, where a rooster (Chantecler) believes his crowing brings forth the sun. This play was a significant cultural phenomenon, blending whimsical anthropomorphism with deeper philosophical themes.

Parfums Caron's choice of "Chantecler" as a perfume name likely aimed to capitalize on the play's popularity and its evocation of natural beauty and charm. In the early 20th century, perfumes often drew inspiration from literature and theater, aligning with the romantic and artistic sensibilities of the time. "Chantecler" would have resonated with individuals familiar with Rostand's work, evoking imagery of a proud, vibrant rooster heralding the dawn—a symbol of optimism, awakening, and the natural world.

For those who related to this perfume, it would have sparked associations with the play's themes of beauty, nature, and the magic of everyday life. The name itself suggests a perfume that promises to awaken the senses, much like how Chantecler's crowing is believed to bring forth the morning light.

Eaux de Caron c1995-1997

The Eaux de Caron collection was composed up of three fragrances, that were issued starting in 1995 until 1997. The line also included: body lotion, shower cream, powder, soap and deodorant. 

Eau de Reglisse Liquorice c2006

Eau de Reglisse Liquorice: Created in 2006.

Elegancia by Caron c1911

The perfume Elegancia by Caron, created by Ernest Daltroff and launched in 1911, emerged during the final years of the Belle Époque, a period characterized by its remarkable elegance, artistic flourishing, and social progress in Europe, particularly in France. The Belle Époque, which spanned from the late 19th century until the outbreak of World War I in 1914, was a time of cultural renaissance. Paris, the heart of this era, was an epicenter of art, fashion, and luxury. The city radiated a sense of optimism and sophistication, with its grand boulevards, opulent theaters, and bustling cafes. This period saw the rise of haute couture, pioneered by designers like Charles Worth and Paul Poiret, who emphasized opulence and exquisite craftsmanship in their creations. Against this backdrop of artistic and social exuberance, Elegancia by Caron was born, encapsulating the essence of the age in a fragrant tribute to style and grace.

The name "Elegancia" translates to "Elegance" in English, a term synonymous with refinement, grace, and sophisticated beauty. Parfums Caron’s choice of the name "Elegancia" was a deliberate nod to the sophisticated and polished nature of the Belle Époque. By naming the perfume "Elegancia," Caron aimed to evoke the refined and stylish essence that was so highly prized during this time. The name itself would have resonated deeply with those who valued the cultured and artistic ethos of the era, reflecting a sense of timeless beauty and understated luxury.

"Elegancia" is an ideal name for a perfume as it immediately conveys a sense of refined sophistication and timeless charm. Perfume is often seen as an invisible accessory that enhances one's presence and allure. The name "Elegancia" suggests that the wearer of this fragrance would embody grace and refinement, appealing to those who appreciate the finer things in life. It speaks to an aspirational quality, promising the wearer a touch of the elegance that was so central to the Belle Époque. In a market where the name of a perfume can evoke a wealth of imagery and emotions, "Elegancia" stands out as a beacon of high style and poise.

Those who would have related to a perfume called "Elegancia" in 1911 were likely individuals who appreciated the arts, fashion, and the cultured lifestyle of the Belle Époque. This would include the fashionable elite, artists, and socialites who frequented the grand salons and cafes of Paris. The name would resonate with them as it encapsulates the elegance and sophistication they sought to embody in their own lives. Upon encountering this perfume, they would likely respond with admiration and a sense of connection to the cultural zeitgeist of the time. They would appreciate the perfume as a statement of their refined taste and a reflection of their social status. 

En Avion by Caron c1929

En Avion by Caron: launched in France in 1929, in USA by 1932. Pronounced "ON-AH-VEE-ON", the name means "By Plane" in French. Created by Ernest Daltroff as a tribute to not only the vogue of air travel, but to both the aviators Jean Mermoz, Hélène Boucher and Lena Bernstein, the latter surpassed the record for time in the air by a woman.

Coup de Fouet by Caron c1954

"Coup de Fouet," a perfume launched by Parfums Caron in 1954, arrived during a dynamic and transformative era. The 1950s were marked by post-war optimism and economic prosperity. This decade saw the rise of consumer culture, fashion innovation, and a burgeoning interest in luxury goods. People were eager to embrace modernity and sophistication, seeking products that reflected their newfound sense of confidence and glamour. The perfume industry, in particular, was thriving, with many brands introducing bold and distinctive fragrances to cater to the tastes of an increasingly discerning clientele.

The name "Coup de Fouet" translates to "Crack the Whip" in English. This evocative phrase suggests a sudden, sharp, and invigorating action, embodying a sense of power, dynamism, and excitement. Parfums Caron likely chose this name to convey the perfume's intense and stimulating character. The imagery of a whip cracking implies an immediate and striking impact, which aligns with the fragrance's composition featuring a sharp note of pepper. The name also hints at a certain audacity and boldness, qualities that would appeal to those seeking a perfume that makes a statement.

The spicy floral fragrance, created by Michel Morsetti, is known for its sharp note of pepper. "Coup de Fouet" is an apt name for this perfume because it encapsulates the essence of a scent designed to awaken the senses and leave a memorable impression. The spicy floral fragrance, with its distinct peppery note, provides a jolt of energy and vivacity, much like the sudden crack of a whip. This immediate and powerful sensation would be both invigorating and alluring, making it an appealing choice for those who desire a fragrance that stands out and captivates attention.