Affolant by Caron c1908

In 1908, the launch of "Affolant" by Parfums Caron occurred during a time of great cultural and social transformation. This period marked the Belle Époque in Europe, characterized by a flourishing of arts, literature, and a sense of romanticism. It was an era where love and passion were idealized, often portrayed as intense and consuming.

The name "Affolant" translates to "bewitching" or "enchanting" in English. Parfums Caron likely chose this name to evoke a sense of irresistible allure and overwhelming attraction, perfectly capturing the essence of a perfume designed to captivate the senses and evoke strong emotions.

"Affolant" would have been a fitting name for a perfume in this period because it resonates with the romantic ideals of the time. It suggests a fragrance that not only enhances one's allure but also has the power to enthrall and enchant those who encounter it. For individuals during the Belle Époque, a perfume named "Affolant" would have held the promise of enhancing their allure and embodying the intoxicating nature of love and passion.

The name "Affolant" evokes images of seduction, romance, and allure. It brings to mind the idea of being irresistibly captivating and leaving a lasting impression on others. Emotionally, it suggests a fragrance that stirs desire and fascination, drawing people closer.

During the Belle Époque, such a name would have been seen as innovative and fitting with the era's fascination with luxury, beauty, and romanticism. It would not have been out of touch but rather in tune with the cultural and social currents of the time, where perfumes were not just scents but expressions of identity and desire.

In summary, "Affolant" by Caron launched in 1908, embodies the spirit of the Belle Époque with its name that suggests enchantment and allure. It would have appealed to those seeking to embody the intoxicating power of love and passion, evoking images of romanticism and sensuality that were central to the cultural zeitgeist of the time.

Toilettes, 1912:

"Legrand's Convoitise (at $6.55), Houbigant's Violette ($5.20), and Caron's Affolant ($7.50) are the most costly ones, at present, but they are no whit more meritorious, probably, than the elegant Roger & Gallet productions — Vera Violetta.."

In 1912, "Affolant" by Parfums Caron commanded a luxurious price tag of $7.50 per bottle. Adjusted for inflation, this would equate to approximately $240.36 in 2024. Such a cost reflected the exclusivity and prestige associated with fine perfumery during that era. The price tag of $7.50 signified more than just a purchase; it represented a statement of elegance and refinement, accessible only to those who could afford the finest luxuries of the time. For comparison, in today's terms, this would be considered a significant investment, emphasizing the high value placed on quality fragrances in early 20th-century society.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It was classified as a floral fragrance for women dominated by violet.

• Top notes: methyl ionone, cassie, almond, bergamot, geranium
• Middle notes: jasmine absolute, orris root, natural violet essence, rose, tuberose, ylang ylang
• Base notes: vanilla, tolu balsam, musk, ambrette

Scent Story:

In the heart of Paris during the Belle Époque, there existed a small, elegant perfume boutique tucked away on a cobblestone street, where the air was always tinged with the sweet scents of flowers and spices. Madame Céline, the proprietor, was renowned for her extraordinary ability to craft perfumes that seemed to possess a magical allure.

One brisk autumn afternoon, a young woman named Élise ventured into Madame Céline's boutique, drawn by whispers of a new creation that was said to enchant the senses. As Élise stepped through the door, she was greeted by the warm aroma of cinnamon and bergamot, mingling with the delicate sweetness of almond. Each inhalation seemed to transport her deeper into a realm of exquisite fragrances.

Madame Céline appeared from behind a cloud of violet-scented mist, her eyes twinkling with the knowledge of ancient secrets. With a knowing smile, she presented Élise with a slender bottle adorned with delicate floral motifs. "This," Madame Céline murmured, "is Affolant."

Élise lifted the bottle to her nose, and instantly, the scent of methyl ionone enveloped her senses like a soft velvet cloak, its powdery violet allure whispering of mystery and elegance. Cassie and geranium danced together, their floral notes intertwining with the gentle tang of bergamot, creating a symphony that awakened memories long forgotten.

As Élise breathed deeper, the perfume began to reveal its heart. Jasmine absolute and orris root unfolded like a bouquet of freshly picked flowers, their essence pure and intoxicating. But it was the natural violet essence that held her captive—a scent so true and ethereal that it seemed to capture the very essence of spring itself. Rose and tuberose added their heady sweetness, while ylang ylang whispered of exotic lands and secret desires.

Time seemed to stand still as Élise savored each layer of Affolant. Madame Céline's hands trembled slightly as she described the base notes—vanilla and tolu balsam, their warmth embracing the wearer like a lover's embrace. Musk and ambrette lent a sensual depth, lingering on the skin like a promise of evenings filled with whispered confessions and stolen kisses.

As Élise left the boutique that evening, a trail of Affolant lingered in her wake, leaving those she passed enchanted by its spell. For in that bottle lay not just a perfume, but a tale of romance and intrigue, woven from the finest ingredients and crafted with a touch of magic that only Madame Céline could bestow. And so, the legend of Affolant continued to bewitch all who dared to experience its enchanting fragrance.

Bottle:

Presented in a bottle designed by Felicie Vanpouille.

Fate of the Fragrance:

In 1929, amidst the bustling avenues of Paris, the shelves of perfume boutiques displayed a dazzling array of scents that captured the essence of their time. Among them, alongside beloved classics like Bel Amour, Isadora, and Nuit de Noël, were the enduring fragrances Mes Jeunes Années, Le Tabac Blond, and Narcisse Noir, each bottle a testament to the artistry and allure of Parfums Caron. These perfumes, including the enchanting Eau de Caron and the timeless Chantecler, adorned dressing tables and perfumed the air with their distinctive bouquets. Yet, among this symphony of scents, some perfumes quietly faded from production, their exact departure from the market obscured by the passage of time—a silent tribute to the fleeting nature of beauty and fashion.