Modern perfume, a history and origins spanning the centuries

Although many people think it is recent, perfume actually has its origins in Antiquity. In Greece and In Egypt , the people of this period had a veritable cult of scents. The inhabitants used perfumed oils or fragrant fumes to accompany sacred rites and attributed medicinal virtues to them. This ancient period saw the birth of the art of perfume and the beginning of its history.

The appearance of perfume over the centuries

Although perfume appeared in Antiquity, it had to wait until Middle Ages to develop. At this time, new scents from the Orient were discovered. But the clergy forbade the use of odorous fragrances to laymen. Perfume was then reserved for religious rites and the wealthiest of the time, like the members of royalty .

They didn't spray their fragrance like we do today. Instead, they wore scented apples around their necks, allowing them to enjoy their favorite scents.

A technique that is being refined

Upon returning from the Crusades, the knights discovered new plants and spices, as well as the technique of distillation. By using water vapor and allowing it to evaporate, they realized that it absorbed the fragrant scents of the plants. This allowed them to significantly develop the art of perfumery. This technique is still used today.

In the 19th century, other techniques emerged, and perfume became industrialized. It was produced in large quantities and became popular. The first synthetic molecules were created, and the vaporizer appeared. Perfume was at its peak.

A story of scents

The development of modern perfumes was mainly made possible by the discovery of new scents. Renaissance , the musk , the vanilla and the jasmine appear in Europe. At the same time, perfume becomes more democratic and all wealthy families take a keen interest in it. The profession of perfumer is created and many boutiques open in large cities. These new artists start creating their own creations and can even design custom perfumes. It is in the south of France, in Grasse, that this art is most developed. There are many perfumers there, because they can benefit from high-quality raw materials.

Later, in the 1980s, the scents became more exotic and inspired by oriental fragrances. Patchouli was given pride of place, as were amber and vanilla. The perfumes were appreciated for their sensuality and their invitation to travel.

Then, little by little, trends changed. Within a decade, these captivating fragrances were somewhat neglected. Instead, more gourmand and tangy scents were preferred.

Today, modern perfume is multifaceted. Scents are diverse and fragrances are increasingly unisex. The idea? To make your own olfactory trail and wear your perfume as a symbol of your personality! By associating eaux de parfum with your image, you create your own wake .

More original and personal than ever, modern perfume resembles the person who wears it. Applied like a second skin, it marks your difference and symbolizes your personality. Discreet, intense, charismatic, sweet, gourmand, fresh... So many possibilities are open to you with your perfume!