Grigri by Weil c1943

Grigri by Weil: launched in 1943. The name pronounced "Gree Gree", is African in origin and means "magic charm" or "talisman." I believe that this perfume, with its exotic name and advertisements, was some sort of patriotic allusion to the French colonies in West Africa. Jean Patou, another French perfume manufacturer visited this theme with his perfume, Colony.

Carbonique Fizzing Cologne c1935

In 1935, Weil released it's Carbonique, an eau de cologne which was carbonated and sold in a cute seltzer style bottle, it was available in Bambou, Zibeline and Cassandra scents.

Stage, 1936:

"There's something pretty exhilarating about the new fizzing cologne of Parfums Weil called Carbonique. It comes in three odors: Cassandra, Bamboo, and Zibeline, and the seltzer-bottle container is returnable for credit on a new one."

Noir by Weil c1937

In 1937, the world was on the brink of significant upheaval. The late 1930s were marked by political tension, economic recovery from the Great Depression, and a cultural shift towards modernity and sophistication. Against this backdrop, Parfums Weil launched their new fragrance, "Noir," a creation by the esteemed perfumer Jacqueline Fraysse. This period saw a fascination with the mysterious and the elegant, qualities that "Noir" encapsulated perfectly.

The name "Noir" is a French word meaning "black." In the context of the late 1930s, black symbolized sophistication, mystery, and timeless elegance. Choosing the name "Noir" for a perfume was a deliberate move by Parfums Weil to evoke a sense of intrigue and allure. The word "Noir" carries with it connotations of the unknown, the seductive, and the dramatic, aligning perfectly with the era's fascination with film noir and the glamor of the silver screen.

A perfume named "Noir" would appeal to women who identified with these qualities. These were women who embraced the sophistication of eveningwear, the elegance of classic fashion, and the allure of mystery. The scent would likely evoke images of smoky jazz clubs, elegant soirées, and the enigmatic femme fatale. "Noir" was designed for the woman who wanted to feel captivating and irresistible, who appreciated the blend of darkness and light that characterized both the fragrance and the era.

The perfume itself, created by Jacqueline Fraysse, would have been a rich, complex scent that mirrored the layered emotions and experiences of the time. Women who wore "Noir" would respond to its depth and sophistication, finding in it a reflection of their own complexity and allure. The fragrance would evoke feelings of power, confidence, and seduction, making it an appropriate and desirable choice for the modern woman of the late 1930s.

Chunga by Weil c1977

Chunga by Parfums Weil was launched in 1977, a decade characterized by a cultural renaissance that embraced boldness, individuality, and an eclectic mix of influences. The 1970s saw significant shifts in fashion, music, and art, with a notable return to natural and exotic elements. This era was marked by a fascination with global cultures, reflected in the vibrant, diverse trends of the time. The fragrance industry was no exception, with many brands drawing inspiration from far-flung locales and unique cultural motifs.

The name "Chunga" likely stems from a word in Spanish, where "chunga" can mean playful or jesting. In this context, it suggests a sense of fun, mischief, and light-heartedness. Parfums Weil may have chosen this name to evoke a playful, exotic allure, aligning with the adventurous spirit of the 1970s. "Chunga" as a name for a perfume carries connotations of intrigue and excitement, a playful dance of scents that tease and tantalize the senses.

Choosing "Chunga" as a name for a perfume fits well with the adventurous, boundary-pushing ethos of the 1970s. During this period, people were eager to explore new experiences and break away from traditional norms. A perfume named "Chunga" would appeal to individuals seeking a unique, bold fragrance that stood out from the more conventional scents of the time. The name suggests a fragrance that is not just an accessory but a statement, a playful and daring choice for those who want to express their individuality and zest for life.

The imagery and feelings evoked by the word "Chunga" are rich and vibrant. One might envision a lively, colorful marketplace filled with exotic spices and flowers, where every corner holds a new surprise. The scent would likely be a blend of vibrant, spicy, and floral notes, capturing the essence of a carefree, spirited adventure. The name conjures up images of playful flirtation, spontaneous dancing, and the joy of living in the moment. It suggests a perfume that is both exotic and accessible, appealing to the senses with its unique, captivating blend.

Padisha by Weil c1922

he launch of "Padisha" by Parfums Weil in 1922 and its subsequent re-launch for public sale in 1947 coincided with distinct periods of cultural and historical significance. In 1922, when the perfume was first introduced as a gift to special clients, Europe and the Middle East were undergoing significant political and social changes following World War I. This period marked the decline of the Ottoman Empire and the emergence of new nation-states in the Middle East, with Turkey transitioning into a republic under Mustafa Kemal Atatürk.

The name "Padisha," derived from the Turkish word "Padishah," refers to a high-ranking sovereign title historically used in the Ottoman Empire and Persia. It translates to "Great King" or "Emperor" in English. Choosing "Padisha" as the name for a perfume could evoke images of grandeur, opulence, and imperial authority, resonating with the cultural richness and historical legacy associated with the Ottoman Empire. The name suggests luxury, authority, and exoticism, qualities that would appeal to a clientele seeking prestige and sophistication in fragrance.

For Parfums Weil, re-launching "Padisha" for public sale in 1947 came during a post-World War II era marked by recovery and rebuilding across Europe. This period saw a renewed interest in luxury goods and a desire to recapture the elegance and refinement of pre-war times. The name "Padisha" would have appealed to individuals who appreciated classical elegance, exotic allure, and a sense of history in their perfumes. It would likely have been marketed to a sophisticated clientele who valued tradition, exclusivity, and the allure of oriental mystique embodied in the name.

Cassandra by Weil c1935

The launch of the perfume "Cassandra" by Parfums Weil in 1935 coincided with a period of artistic and cultural richness in both Europe and the United States. This era, between the two World Wars, saw a blend of traditional elegance and modernist experimentation in fashion, art, and literature. It was a time when perfumery was evolving, with new fragrances being crafted to reflect changing tastes and societal norms.

Parfums Weil likely chose the name "Cassandra" for its perfume to evoke a sense of mystery, allure, and sophistication. In Greek mythology, Cassandra was a Trojan princess blessed with the gift of prophecy but cursed so that her predictions would never be believed. She embodies a tragic yet compelling figure whose story resonates with themes of foresight, fate, and the tension between truth and disbelief.

Cassandra's association with prophecy and her tragic fate could make her an apt symbol for a perfume. Fragrance, like prophecy, can evoke emotions, memories, and anticipation of the future. Naming a perfume after Cassandra suggests it might possess an enigmatic allure, hinting at hidden depths and a captivating, yet perhaps elusive, beauty.

People who would relate to a perfume named "Cassandra" might be drawn to its evocative name and the mythological connotations it carries. They might see it as a perfume that promises to awaken senses, evoke emotions, and leave a lasting impression. Those familiar with the myth might be intrigued by the idea of wearing a fragrance that channels Cassandra's mystique and tragic allure.

The word "Cassandra" evokes images of ancient Greece, of prophetic visions, and of a woman with an intense gaze and a compelling story. It carries feelings of mystery, wisdom, and a touch of sorrow. For those attracted to the perfume, "Cassandra" could embody a blend of sophistication and emotional depth, offering wearers a chance to connect with a fragrance that speaks to both the past and the present, resonating with timeless themes of beauty, fate, and the complexity of human experience.