Wednesday, June 15, 2016

Balalaïka by Lucien Lelong c1939

Balalaïka by Lucien Lelong: launched in 1939.







Fragrance Composition:


So what does it smell like? An uplifting, powdery, floral oriental perfume with woody notes layered over a fougere base.

  • Top notes: aldehydes, tangerine, mandarin, bergamot
  • Middle notes: lavender, violet, rosewood, gardenia, anise, spices
  • Base notes: labdanum, oakmoss, patchouli, vetiver, cedar, musk, vanilla, sandalwood, fougere accord



Arts & Decoration, Volume 53, 1940:
"On the lighter side, a new cologne by Lucien Lelong called Balalaika is a good all-around choice. It's a carefree scent, suggesting a field of flowers in the sun, with cool ferny undertones."

The New Yorker, 1963:
" Sirocco- sultry lure, Balalaika- lilting floral, Opening Night— dazzling drama, Numero 7- joyously romantic, Orgueil— elegant intrigue. Beloved fragrances in the provocative mood- cherished for their extraordinary power to move men's hearts!"


Bottles:


Balalaika Parfum was presented in a conical bottle, molded with ascending swirls, accented with gilding. The bottle has an inner glass stopper and a glass over cap.

  • 1/4 oz bottle stands 2.75" tall.
  • 1/2 oz bottle stands 3.25" tall.
  • 1 oz bottle stands 4.25" tall.
  • 2 oz bottle stands 5" tall.
  • 3 oz bottle stands 5.75" tall
  • Factice bottle stands 7" tall.











Fate of the Fragrance:


Discontinued, date unknown. Still being sold in 1975. Was reformulated and relaunched around 2005 or so.


CLICK HERE TO FIND BALALAIKA PERFUME BY LUCIEN LELONG



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