Launched in Europe in May 1980 and introduced to the United States in September 1981, Nocturnes by Caron is a fragrance that evokes the essence of the night, both in name and in scent. The name Nocturnes is derived from the French word for "nighttime" and is pronounced "noh-tur-nuh." The word conjures images of the serene yet mysterious moments that unfold after dusk—an atmosphere of calm, reflection, and allure. It is rooted in the Latin word nocturnus, meaning "of the night," and carries with it an air of sophistication and elegance, evoking the quiet beauty of twilight hours. Women of the time, particularly in the 1980s, would have related to Nocturnes as a fragrance that resonated with their growing sense of independence, sensuality, and the desire for experiences beyond the confines of daylight. The fragrance mirrored the emerging empowerment of women in this era, marking a shift towards more complex and daring perfumes that aligned with the bold spirit of the time.
The word Nocturnes is inherently tied to the idea of a scent that evolves through the hours, like the changing moods of the night. It suggests mystery, intimacy, and a touch of the exotic—qualities that would be beautifully interpreted in scent. The fragrance, created by perfumer Roger Pellégrino of Firmenich, was a labor of love, taking a decade to perfect. It is classified as an aldehydic woody floral, opening with a bright, aldehydic top that soon melds into a radiant floral heart. The fragrance then settles on a sweet, powdery, and distinctly feminine base. This composition of over 80 ingredients, including stephanotis, rose, jasmine, tuberose, and ylang ylang, is a harmonious blend of floral opulence and woody warmth. Pellégrino’s description of Nocturnes as a "flowery and fragile fragrance... blooming with a woody, spicy warm combination, touched by a sensual hint of amber" conveys the deep complexity and balance of its character.
