Tabu by Dana c1932

Tabu perfume by Dana, a legendary creation born in 1932, is a fragrance that has captured imaginations and provoked curiosity for decades. Conceived by the master perfumer Jean Carles, Tabu was the result of a unique and bold challenge: to craft a perfume so sensuous and provocative that it could be described as "un parfum de puta," or a perfume that a prostitute would wear. This brief from Dana's creative team was not merely to shock or titillate but to explore and embody a scent of raw, unapologetic sensuality—a scent that defied conventions and embraced the allure of forbidden passion.

Jean Carles, renowned for his ability to blend unconventional notes into harmonious compositions, approached this task with his characteristic flair. The resulting fragrance, Tabu, is a testament to his artistry and daring vision.

The creation of Tabu as "un parfum de puta" was a bold and provocative move, one that challenged the norms of its time. It was not merely about creating a scent that was overtly sensual but about capturing the essence of uninhibited passion and desire. Tabu was designed to evoke a world of forbidden allure, a world where societal boundaries are blurred, and sensuality reigns supreme. It is a fragrance that invites exploration and seduction, a scent that has become iconic for its rich, intoxicating blend of florals, spices, and earthy notes.

In this guide, as we delve into the sensual world of Tabu, we are not just exploring a fragrance but also a piece of history—a symbol of daring creativity and the timeless allure of passion. Tabu continues to captivate and enchant, a true testament to the enduring power of scent and the artistry of Jean Carles. Whether you are new to this classic fragrance or a longtime admirer, Tabu offers an experience that is as rich and complex as the emotions it evokes.

20 Carats by Dana c1933

First introduced in 1933, 20 Carats emerged as a follow-up to Parfums Dana's groundbreaking debut fragrance, Tabu, launched just a year prior. The name "20 Carats" evokes a sense of rarity, opulence, and unparalleled quality, referencing the term used to measure the purity of gold or the weight of gemstones. Derived from the French word "carat" (pronounced "kah-rah"), the name would resonate with sophistication and luxury, suggesting a fragrance of exceptional value. For Spanish-speaking markets, the name was translated as 20 Quilates, aligning with the local term for carats. Some bottles bear the dual or even triple branding of 20 Carats-20 Quilates-20 Ks, reflecting the global reach and multilingual adaptability of the fragrance.

The name "20 Carats" evokes images of gleaming gold, sparkling gemstones, and timeless elegance. It conjures emotions of aspiration and indulgence, offering a touch of refinement in a turbulent era. Launched during the depths of the Great Depression, the fragrance offered a slice of escapism and a promise of luxury during a time defined by economic hardship. This was the period of the early 1930s, characterized by a stark contrast between austerity and the enduring allure of glamour. Despite the financial strain, women clung to beauty and fashion as expressions of hope. Hollywood’s Golden Age popularized sleek gowns, fur accents, and intricate accessories, fueling the desire for affordable luxury like an elegant fragrance.

To women of the time, 20 Carats symbolized sophistication, aspiration, and confidence. Perfumes were an accessible indulgence, allowing women to express their femininity and individuality, even amid societal struggles. A name like "20 Carats" suggested not only beauty but also resilience—a sparkling reminder of one’s intrinsic worth.