The perfume "Makila" by Jean Patou, launched in 1961, was introduced during a time when romance in popular culture was characterized by elegance, sophistication, and a sense of allure. This period was marked by the continuation of post-war optimism and the burgeoning of the Space Age era, where technological advancements were shaping a future full of promise and modernity.
The word "Makila" translates to "walking stick" or "cane" in English. Jean Patou might have chosen this name for its evocative imagery of elegance, support, and refinement. A "Makila" conjures images of walking through lush gardens, strolling along boulevards, and attending glamorous soirées. It suggests a blend of tradition and modernity, where classic elegance meets contemporary sophistication.
The name "Makila" would appeal to individuals who appreciate refined tastes, classic beauty, and a sense of understated luxury. Those drawn to this perfume would likely respond to its sophisticated allure and its ability to evoke images of timeless romance and elegance.
This type of perfume would be most popular in cosmopolitan cities and among individuals who enjoy cultural sophistication and luxury. Places like Paris, New York, and London would resonate with the essence of "Makila," where its blend of tradition and modernity would be appreciated.
The word "Makila" evokes images of sleek lines, polished wood, and the sense of support and elegance associated with a walking stick. Emotionally, it suggests confidence, grace, and a touch of mystery, making it a captivating choice for a perfume name.
"Makila" would indeed be a unique name for a perfume, standing out with its evocative imagery and cultural resonance. It offers a distinctive identity that combines heritage with contemporary allure, appealing to those who seek timeless elegance in their fragrance choices.
Interpreted metaphorically, "Makila" could symbolize guidance, support, and a journey through life's experiences with grace and style. It suggests a fragrance that accompanies one through various moments, enhancing the wearer's presence and confidence.
This perfume would be most likely worn during evening events, special occasions, and moments that call for sophistication and allure. It complements formal attire and enhances the wearer's elegance, making every moment feel extraordinary and memorable.
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral chypre fragrance for women. Opens with a harsh green accord before a white flower bouquet filled with jasmine upon a leathery, dry hay accord.
- Top notes: lemon, bergamot, green notes, neroli, reseda, oregano, sweet pea
- Middle notes: violet, tuberose, orange blossom, lilac, Grasse jasmine, heliotrope, broom, rose
- Base notes: patchouli, Mysore sandalwood, leather, dry hay accord, oakmoss, musk, tonka bean, vetiver, labdanum, ambergris
Combat, 1961:
"New at Jean Patou: the Makila Parfum de Toilette. Claim it at the best perfumeries. Its warm scent, whose musk makes a flowery complex of tuberose, heliotrope, reseda and oregano infinitely attractive, with a touch of violet, is ideal for the dizziness of dancing nights."
Combat, 1961:
"On the eve of the end-of-year celebrations, in this harsh December: heated by the generous quest for gifts, Jean Patou is launching a new parfum de toilette which is a sweet message of sunny days. Spring? Summer? What to say? Tuberose dominates sentimental violet. Resedas and heliotropes vibrate on edge, mingled with the exquisite aroma of sweet peas painted by Marie Laurencin. A base where I believe I can discern the warmth of amber sensualized with a hint of musk and woody with the particular nuance of oregano, makes 'Makila', a perfume of intimacy 'designed' for the female body, to impregnate these intimate silks from which the woman gets rid of her petals like a rose. There is, in this smell, a kind of calm surrender to the sacred disarray of happy hours. In the whirlwind of dancing on New Year's Eve, this garden aroma will idealize the artifices of too concerted pleasures. For the crackling evenings of the mountain chalets, when the night recovers the great silence of the snow, it will be like a fine reassuring ray, a ray for the sense of smell."
Scent Profile:
Imagine stepping into Holly Golightly's world in Breakfast at Tiffany's, where each note of Makila by Jean Patou unfolds like a sensory journey through her glamorous life. As the perfume envelops you, the scene opens with a burst of citrus freshness, as if the morning light filtering through Tiffany's windows casts a vibrant glow over New York City. The lemon and bergamot mingle with green notes, evoking the crispness of freshly cut flowers arranged in her chic Manhattan apartment. The air is filled with the delicate scent of neroli and sweet pea, adding a touch of floral sweetness to the bustling city atmosphere.
As you continue your olfactory exploration, the heart of Makila reveals itself like a bouquet of white flowers, reminiscent of Holly's iconic elegance. Tuberose and orange blossom dominate, their intoxicating aromas mingling with the subtle violet and lilac notes that linger in the air like whispers of secrets shared over breakfast. Grasse jasmine, known for its unparalleled richness, adds a layer of sophistication that mirrors Holly's enigmatic allure, while heliotrope and broom bring a hint of softness and warmth to the composition.
Descending deeper into the fragrance, the base notes of Makila transport you to a more contemplative moment, akin to wandering through Central Park at twilight. Patchouli and Mysore sandalwood create a woody, earthy foundation, while leather and dry hay accords evoke the texture of Holly's iconic trench coat and the warmth of the city's hidden corners. Oakmoss and vetiver add a touch of greenery, reminiscent of the park's lush surroundings, as musk and ambergris lend a sensual depth that lingers on the skin like a whispered promise.
Touching on all senses, Makila by Jean Patou becomes not just a fragrance but a journey through time and place, capturing the essence of Holly Golightly's world with each delicate note. From the bright lights of Fifth Avenue to the quiet moments of introspection, this floral chypre fragrance embodies the elegance, mystery, and timeless allure of a woman who continues to captivate hearts and minds long after the credits roll.
Bottle:
"Makila," available as a parfum de toilette during its launch in 1961, represented a concentration akin to today's eau de parfum. This formulation ensured a rich and lasting fragrance experience, embodying Jean Patou's commitment to luxury and refinement. The parfum de toilette version of "Makila" would have offered a sophisticated blend of top notes, heart notes, and base notes meticulously crafted to linger delicately on the skin, unveiling its layers of elegance throughout the day or evening. Its availability in this concentration underscored its appeal to those seeking a fragrance that transcended mere scent, becoming an integral part of their personal style and allure.
Later in the film, during a more vulnerable moment when Holly is escorted home by Fred after a night of revelry, she once again reaches for Makila. The fragrance, now intertwined with the whimsical and emotional journey of the characters, adds a layer of nostalgia and intimacy to the scene. It becomes a subtle yet poignant symbol of Holly's desire for independence and her search for meaning in a world of superficial glamour.
Makila's presence in these pivotal scenes underscores its role as more than just a perfume; it becomes a narrative device that enhances the atmosphere and character development within the film. Its timeless elegance and evocative scent mirror Holly Golightly's journey of self-discovery and the allure of the glamorous world she inhabits, making Makila a memorable and integral part of the cinematic experience in "Breakfast at Tiffany's."
Fate of the Fragrance:
The fragrance Makila, despite its allure and popularity during its brief production run, faced an unfortunate fate with its discontinuation sometime in the late 1960s. This decision marked the end of a short yet memorable era in the world of perfumery, leaving behind a legacy of elegance and sophistication that captivated its wearers.
During its limited availability, Makila distinguished itself with a composition that balanced timeless allure with contemporary sensibilities. Its blend of top notes, heart notes, and base notes crafted by Jean Patou's master perfumers offered a distinct olfactory experience, evoking images of cosmopolitan elegance and refined tastes.
The short production run of Makila adds to its mystique and allure, becoming a cherished memory for those fortunate enough to have experienced its fragrance. Its discontinuation in the late 1960s left a void in the perfume industry, highlighting the ephemeral nature of luxury and the ever-changing tastes of consumers.
Despite its short-lived availability, Makila continues to hold a special place in the hearts of perfume enthusiasts and collectors alike, remembered fondly for its sophisticated blend and the era it represented. Its legacy serves as a reminder of the fleeting beauty of fragrances and the enduring impact they can have on personal style and cultural zeitgeist.
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