Launched in 1953, Glamour by Bourjois arrived at the height of post-war optimism and a burgeoning cultural fascination with sophistication and style. The early 1950s were marked by a return to elegance after the austerity of World War II. Christian Dior had revolutionized fashion with his "New Look" in 1947, emphasizing femininity with cinched waists, full skirts, and luxurious fabrics. Hollywood icons like Audrey Hepburn, Grace Kelly, and Marilyn Monroe became global symbols of beauty, charm, and poise. Against this backdrop, Bourjois chose the name "Glamour" to evoke a sense of enchantment and allure that perfectly complemented the era’s cultural ideals.
The word "Glamour" originates from Old Scots, where it referred to a magical or spellbinding quality. By the mid-20th century, it had evolved to signify a captivating charm, elegance, or beauty, often associated with celebrities and the allure of high society. Pronounced “GLAM-er", the word conjures visions of shimmering gowns, glittering jewels, and the magnetic confidence of a woman who commands attention without effort. Women in the 1950s would have been drawn to a perfume named Glamour, imagining it as the invisible accessory that could elevate their presence, much like a favorite lipstick or a well-tailored dress.
In scent, Glamour captures this sense of sophistication and allure through its meticulous composition. The aldehydic opening offers a sparkling freshness, akin to sunlight dancing on crystal. Green and fruity top notes introduce a lively vibrancy, while the green floral heart provides a natural elegance, evoking images of lush gardens and fresh bouquets. These elements flow seamlessly into a mossy, balsamic, and woody chypre base, which grounds the fragrance with depth and warmth. This final accord evokes the sun-soaked hills of Provence, a place of understated beauty and timeless charm.
