Imprudence by Worth c1938

Imprudence by Worth: launched in 1938. Created by Maurice Blanchet.

The name means "reckless" in French.

Worth was clever in crafting a series of perfumes with evocative names that told a love story, making each fragrance feel like a chapter in a romantic narrative. The titles of this series included "Dans la Nuit" ("In the Night"), "Vers le Jour" ("Towards the Day"), "Sans Adieu" ("Without Goodbye"), "Je Reviens" ("I Will Return"), "Vers Toi" ("Towards You"), "Projets" ("Plans" or "Projects"), "Imprudence" ("Recklessness"), and "Requête" ("Request"). Together, these names reflect the emotional stages of a love affair: the mystery and intimacy of the night, the promise of a new day, the bittersweet parting without farewells, the pledge of return, and the eventual reunification. These titles conjure up a romantic progression, from the initial allure of love to the challenges and uncertainties that arise, and finally, the enduring nature of affection.

It was available in parfum, bath soap, dusting powder, eau de cologne and hand soap. It was suggested to be worn during the autumn and winter months.

Requete by Worth c1944

Requête by Worth, launched in 1944, emerges as a fragrance rich in both emotional and historical significance. The name "Requête" is French, translating to "request" or "appeal" in English. It evokes the sense of a plea, a tender yet urgent call—perhaps for love, hope, or connection during a time of uncertainty. The word "Requête" carries a gentle longing, an expression of something deeply desired but not yet attained. In the context of the fragrance, the name suggests a scent that delicately invites, yet doesn't overwhelm, a soft request for attention, much like the allure of a garden gradually warming under the early morning sun.

This idea of gentle appeal translates beautifully into the fragrance’s olfactory composition. Classified as a light green floral bouquet, Requête captures the essence of a June garden as it stirs to life. The scent evokes images of dewy grass and flowers in bloom, touched by the warmth of the morning sun. As the fragrance develops, the sensual notes of rose and jasmine mingle with the fresh greenery, bringing to mind a serene, intimate setting where nature's beauty is celebrated. The musky base adds depth, anchoring the delicate florals and giving them a soft, sensual finish. In scent, "Requête" would be interpreted as both inviting and romantic, blending youthful freshness with a quiet elegance.

When Requête was introduced in the 1940s, it was a time of profound emotional upheaval. The world was engulfed in war, and women were living with the constant anxiety of having loved ones fighting overseas. In such a context, a perfume named "Requête" would resonate deeply. For many women, it would symbolize the silent prayers and appeals for the safety and return of those they loved, an olfactory echo of the letters they sent across borders and battlefields. In an era marked by separation and sacrifice, the fragrance could serve as a quiet comfort, a gentle expression of hope, desire, and personal connection.

A daytime perfume like Requête was suggested for a young woman, its lightness reflecting the innocence and optimism of youth even in dark times. Women of the time would likely have seen this fragrance as a representation of resilience and grace under pressure. The scent’s floral and green notes were a reminder of nature’s ability to renew and bloom again, even after hardship—symbolizing, perhaps, their own strength and perseverance. The musky undertone, though subtle, hinted at the romantic undertones of waiting, yearning, and, ultimately, the possibility of reunion.

Projets by Worth c1936

Launched in 1936, Projets by Worth was a fragrance that captured the essence of a vibrant, evolving world. Created by the esteemed perfumer Maurice Blanchet, the name "Projets" is derived from French, meaning "projects" or "plans," and is pronounced "proh-zheh." This term evokes a sense of ambition and forward-thinking, reflecting the aspirations and dreams of women during a time when they were beginning to carve out their own identities in society. It conjures images of sun-drenched days, exhilarating adventures, and a zest for life, all perfectly encapsulated in a fragrance designed for the modern woman.

Projets is classified as a floral chypre perfume, characterized by its spicy yet refreshing aroma. The scent embodies the exhilaration of mimosas in full bloom, harmoniously mingling with the cool sea breeze that wafts across the Mediterranean hills. This delightful fragrance is not just a sensory experience; it paints a vivid picture of outdoor escapades and joyous sporting events, making it an ideal choice for women who revel in the beauty of nature and the thrill of activity. With its dry, sweet notes, Projets invites wearers to embrace the spirit of adventure and the joys of life in the open air.

Vers le Jour by Worth c1924

Worth was clever in crafting a series of perfumes with evocative names that told a love story, making each fragrance feel like a chapter in a romantic narrative. The titles of this series included "Dans la Nuit" ("In the Night"), "Vers le Jour" ("Towards the Day"), "Sans Adieu" ("Without Goodbye"), "Je Reviens" ("I Will Return"), "Vers Toi" ("Towards You"), "Projets" ("Plans" or "Projects"), "Imprudence" ("Recklessness"), and "Requête" ("Request"). Together, these names reflect the emotional stages of a love affair: the mystery and intimacy of the night, the promise of a new day, the bittersweet parting without farewells, the pledge of return, and the eventual reunification. These titles conjure up a romantic progression, from the initial allure of love to the challenges and uncertainties that arise, and finally, the enduring nature of affection.

Vers le Jour by Worth, launched in 1924 and crafted by perfumer Maurice Blanchet, carries a name that speaks to the optimism and hope of a new day. In French, “Vers le Jour” translates to "Towards the Day," and it is pronounced “vehr luh zhoor.” The choice of this name by Parfums Worth suggests a fragrance that mirrors the transition from night to morning, capturing the freshness and anticipation that accompanies dawn. The imagery evoked by the name conjures scenes of the first light filtering through the mist, flowers beginning to unfold, and a sense of renewal that only early morning can bring. It speaks to the beginning of something new—a time of reflection and quiet excitement before the world fully awakens.

In scent, "Vers le Jour" would be interpreted as a cool floral chypre, a genre known for its balance of freshness and depth, traditionally built around notes like bergamot, oakmoss, and patchouli. Given its classification as a floral chypre with a "heavy oriental background," this perfume likely opens with bright, crisp floral notes, followed by deeper, richer undertones that linger on the skin. The cool florals would evoke the fresh bloom of flowers in the morning air, while the ambery base adds warmth and mystery, reminiscent of the slow, steady rise of the sun, hinting at sensuality beneath the surface. The scent would feel both invigorating and grounding, ideal for outdoor activities or sports, as suggested.

When it was launched in 1924, the world was emerging from the shadows of World War I, and the Roaring Twenties were in full swing. Women were embracing newfound freedoms, both in society and fashion. They were more active, participating in sports and outdoor activities, reflecting a modern lifestyle that embraced both elegance and practicality. A perfume like "Vers le Jour" would have resonated with women of the time, offering a fragrance that captured this balance between light and depth—something fresh enough for daytime wear, yet complex enough to feel luxurious and sophisticated.

The time period in which "Vers le Jour" was launched was one of dramatic social change. Women's fashion had evolved towards more practical and liberated styles, and perfumes became an essential part of a woman's identity. For women in the 1920s, "Vers le Jour" would have symbolized more than just a fragrance—it would have represented their own personal transition towards modernity, freedom, and confidence. A scent designed for sporting activities and the outdoors, yet with a sophisticated and rich background, would appeal to a woman who was at once practical and glamorous, ready to embrace life with both energy and elegance.