Roman Holiday by Bourjois c1951

Roman Holiday by Bourjois, launched in 1951, encapsulates a sense of romance, sophistication, and escapism. The name itself draws from the allure of ancient Rome’s history and the enchantment of the Eternal City as a glamorous destination. It evokes visions of sunlit cobblestone streets, crumbling ruins steeped in grandeur, and the timeless elegance of Roman architecture. The phrase “Roman Holiday” also resonates with the mid-century cultural zeitgeist, as it became synonymous with adventure, freedom, and cinematic romance, particularly due to the iconic 1953 film starring Audrey Hepburn. For women in the 1950s, the name would conjure dreams of adventure and sophisticated leisure, appealing to a desire for refined escapism in their everyday lives.

The name likely speaks to a cultural fascination with travel and a longing for the Old World charm of Europe, especially in the post-war era when transatlantic travel was becoming more accessible. In 1951, Rome symbolized both historical depth and modern glamour, embodying a blend of tradition and vitality that resonated with the growing global interest in European culture. The name promised an evocative journey, inviting wearers to imagine themselves strolling through the Piazza Navona or basking in the Italian sun with an air of sophistication.

The term evokes an atmosphere of passion, mystery, and elegance. It paints a picture of Roman ruins bathed in golden light, fragrant gardens in full bloom, and the tantalizing scent of spices carried on the Mediterranean breeze. Emotionally, it invites feelings of longing, indulgence, and timeless romance, offering a sense of escape from the mundane. The perfume’s classification as a spicy floral fits perfectly with this narrative, marrying the warmth of spices with the lushness of Mediterranean blooms.

The early 1950s marked a period of post-war recovery and renewal. In the United States and Europe, this was the dawn of the Atomic Age, a time when optimism and progress defined cultural trends. The period saw the rise of haute couture fashion houses such as Christian Dior, whose “New Look” redefined women’s fashion with its cinched waists and full skirts, emphasizing femininity and elegance. Women were seeking products that allowed them to feel glamorous and confident, even in their everyday lives. Perfumes like Roman Holiday played into this desire, offering a touch of luxury and escapism.

Travel also became an aspirational theme in the 1950s, with jet-setting beginning to emerge as a glamorous lifestyle. Rome, as a cultural and historical epicenter, was a particularly alluring destination. The name Roman Holiday would have resonated deeply with women of the time, offering a sense of connection to the romance and adventure of the world beyond their doorstep.

Women in the 1950s were redefining themselves in the wake of World War II. While many embraced domesticity, others sought to expand their roles in society. A perfume like Roman Holiday would have appealed to both groups: for homemakers, it offered a touch of glamour and escape; for career women, it symbolized sophistication and independence. Its name and concept tapped into the desire to embrace elegance and romance while exuding a worldly charm.

The spicy floral classification would align with the imagery of Roman Holiday. The bright citrus in the top notes symbolizes the zest and vitality of Roman life, while the heart notes of jasmine, carnation, and rose evoke the beauty of Mediterranean gardens. The warm base notes of Mysore sandalwood and amber add depth and sensuality, mimicking the warmth of the Roman sun and the timeless allure of its history. Together, these notes create a composition that feels sophisticated yet approachable, embodying the elegance and charm of Rome.

In the context of 1950s perfumery, Roman Holiday was both a product of its era and a unique offering. The spicy floral category was not uncommon, but its name and concept differentiated it in a market where romantic, escapist themes were becoming increasingly popular. Many fragrances of the time leaned into themes of femininity and glamour, yet Roman Holiday elevated this by blending historical romanticism with modern sophistication. Its evocative concept and expertly crafted scent made it a standout choice for women seeking both elegance and adventure.

 

.Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a spicy floral fragrance for women.

• Top notes: Calabrian bergamot, cardamom, Italian neroli, aldehydes, Sicilian lemon, Jamaican pepper
• Middle notes: Saigon cinnamon, Manila ylang ylang, Dutch hyacinth, Zanzibar clove, Indian tuberose, Grasse jasmine, French carnation and Grasse rose
• Base notes: Mysore sandalwood, ambergris, Indonesian patchouli, Florentine orris root, Siamese benzoin, Tonkin musk, Ethiopian civet, Mexican vanilla, Cyprus labdanum

"Roman Holiday" — an escape into the world of roses and jasmine, subtly spiced. By Bourjois. One ounce. $15." 

Scent Profile:

Roman Holiday by Bourjois is a captivating olfactory journey, weaving a rich tapestry of exotic spices, florals, and sensual base notes. As you experience each ingredient, you are transported to far-flung regions, their unique terroirs and traditions captured within every essence.

The opening sparkles with the zesty brightness of Calabrian bergamot and Sicilian lemon, their citrusy profiles vibrant yet nuanced. Bergamot from Calabria is famed for its sweet, almost floral undertones, while Sicilian lemons lend a crisp, sunlit sharpness, reminiscent of warm Mediterranean breezes. Complementing these are the green, honeyed facets of Italian neroli, distilled from orange blossoms. This neroli is softer and more radiant than others, embodying the lush orchards of Italy in bloom.

A jolt of Jamaican pepper, warm and aromatic, brings a fiery kick, its sweet spiciness adding depth to the citrus. Cardamom, often called the "Queen of Spices," introduces a cooling contrast with its camphorous, slightly minty profile. Finally, aldehydes infuse the composition with a sparkling, effervescent quality, like sunlight shimmering on crystal-clear waters.

The heart reveals a sumptuous bouquet of florals and spices, each unfolding like a layer of an intricate story. Saigon cinnamon, prized for its rich sweetness, evokes warmth with subtle hints of wood and clove. Paired with the exotic richness of Zanzibar clove, these spices create a fiery core, their aromatic intensity tempered by florals.

Manila ylang ylang introduces a creamy, tropical sweetness with a touch of banana-like richness. This ylang ylang stands apart for its velvety smoothness, cultivated under the gentle Philippine sun. The narcotic opulence of Indian tuberose follows, its heady scent deep and intoxicating. Meanwhile, Dutch hyacinth adds a cool, green freshness, balancing the heavier notes with its light, airy character.

The florals reach their peak with Grasse jasmine and Grasse rose, both absolute treasures from the French Riviera. The jasmine is intensely sensual, with an almost animalic undertone, while the rose is lush, velvety, and slightly spicy. French carnation, with its peppery edge, adds vibrancy and an unexpected twist, weaving beautifully into the spicy floral theme.

The dry down is a luxurious symphony of warmth and depth, anchored by some of the world’s most prized ingredients. Mysore sandalwood lends a creamy, milky smoothness that is unmatched by sandalwoods from other regions, its richness grounding the composition. Ambergris, with its marine, salty nuances, creates a sense of mystery and elegance.

Indonesian patchouli brings an earthy, woody quality, softened by the powdery sophistication of Florentine orris root. Orris root from Florence is revered for its buttery texture and violet-like fragrance, a result of years-long aging. Siamese benzoin adds a sweet, resinous warmth, while Tonkin musk deepens the blend with its animalic, sensual undertone.

The final touch is a sweet, smoky creaminess from Mexican vanilla, paired with the leathery, balsamic richness of Cyprus labdanum. Ethiopian civet lends an exotic muskiness, its intensity balanced by the warmth and complexity of the other base notes.

Roman Holiday is a masterpiece of contrasts—freshness and spice, delicacy and boldness, sweetness and depth. Each ingredient brings a sense of place, weaving a story that feels both timeless and adventurous. It’s as though you’re wandering through a bustling spice market, a fragrant flower field, and an opulent boudoir, all at once.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued, date unknown.