In 1933, as the world grappled with the Great Depression, fashion and entertainment offered an escape from economic hardship. Jean Patou launched "Folie Divine," a perfume crafted by Henri Almeras. This era contrasted the allure of Hollywood glamour and Parisian haute couture with the bleakness of everyday life. Women found solace and elevated their spirits through fashion and beauty, with "Folie Divine" designed to complement Jean Patou's sleek white satin and silk bias-cut evening gowns, offering a counterpoint to Chanel's little black cocktail dresses.
The name "Folie Divine," meaning "Divine Madness," perfectly encapsulates the theme of passionate, uncontrollable love. It suggests a love so intense that it borders on madness, transforming ordinary experiences into extraordinary moments. This name implies a fragrance embodying wild, passionate, and almost reckless love, evoking a realm of divine enchantment.
"Folie Divine" as a name captures the imagination and evokes mystery and allure, hinting at the transformative power of fragrance. It suggests that wearing it can induce euphoric bliss, appealing to those seeking escapism and unrestrained joy. Women in the 1930s, especially those attending glamorous social gatherings, would have been drawn to its promise of enhancing their allure and complementing their elegant evening gowns.
The perfume would have been popular in fashion capitals like Paris and Hollywood, where the elite embraced the latest trends and luxurious products. The association with Jean Patou's evening gowns made it a must-have accessory for those aiming to stand out and exude sophistication. "Folie Divine" evokes images of opulent, candlelit rooms, women in shimmering gowns, and emotions of intense passion and joy—a dance on the edge of reason where beauty and madness intertwine.
Some collectors might be confused by the names "Divine Folie" and "Folie Divine." The original perfume, registered as "Folie Divine" in 1931 and renewed in 1951, encapsulated a luxurious escape into passionate enchantment. In 1984, Jean Kerléo reformulated and relaunched the perfume as "Divine Folie," modernizing it with contemporary ingredients while retaining its original spirit.
