subject: Fragrances Of Then And Now [print this page] Over the centuries perfume has become synonymous with many famous historical names. This has continued today and one of these is Britney Spears perfume which is by no means the only one.
However, as legend would have us believe, it might surprise you to know that almost 100 bottles of cologne were used in a single month by Napoleon. When he charged into battle, he would wear his favourite scent, perhaps for luck or maybe just to impart added strength and hidden power.
In a different Court in the era of extravagance and luxury, courtiers during the reign of Louis XIV were actually ordered to use different fragrances every day. Imagine that happening today if your boss at work gave you the order to wear a classic brand one day, and Britney Spears perfume the next. It would perhaps be quite delightful, especially if you could claim an allowance.
In another trend, it is reported that Eau de Cologne was invented by a young Italian in 1709. In his ingredients, he included ethanol, water and wonderfully exotic and naturally calming or stimulating citrus oils. These would be natural ingredients such as neroli, bergamot, orange, tangerine, lemon and lime grapefruit. Other floral fragrances included jasmine and lavender, and then there were herbs such as thyme and rosemary. Interestingly these are the same ingredients we find today that are used in aromatherapy oils. The Eau de Cologne invented by this particular Italian gained worldwide popularity. And it seems little wonder, given that these ingredients are so well renowned to have huge therapeutic benefits.
Back in the days of such far ago history, perfumes such as Britney Spears perfume would not even have been dreamed about and perfumes were considered to be a luxury. Wearing of perfume was therefore largely restricted to being worn by people of certain means and wealth. It wasnt until the late 1800's that scents and perfumes began to divide into separate classifications for male and female. Ingredients typically incorporated into male colognes and fragrances tended to be made up of such things as tobacco, musk, sandalwood and cloves.
These remain today ingredients of some of the most popular male perfume brands. In a similar way the ladies tended to wear scents comprised of violet, rose, jasmine, lavender and lily. Again, these bases and additions tend to be popular infusions in todays fragrances and perfumes. Today, however, perfumes are not considered a rich luxury.
