Chantilly(1941)

Created by Marcel Billot for Houbigant, Chantilly opens on lemon, neroli, bergamot, and fruity notes, moves through an elaborate heart of spices, carnation, ylang-ylang, orange blossom, rose, and jasmine, and closes on sandalwood, vanilla, benzoin, oakmoss, tonka bean, and musk. Named for the town famous for its lace and its nearby chateau, the fragrance evokes refined French elegance and femininity. Its dense, multi-material heart and base reflect the continued influence of the rich, aldehydic-oriental style Houbigant and its rivals had developed over the preceding two decades. Chantilly became one of Houbigant's most commercially successful mid-century releases, remaining associated with the house for decades afterward.