Ambush by Dana c1955

Launched in 1955, Ambush by Dana is a fragrance that stands out not only for its composition but also for its provocative name. The choice of the name "Ambush" is intriguing, as it evokes strong imagery and emotions. The word "ambush" is derived from the French word embuscade, which refers to a surprise attack, often sudden and unexpected. The term carries a sense of stealth, tension, and unpredictability. It conjures images of something hidden, poised to strike, which contrasts with the more traditional, romantic names often chosen for perfumes. By naming their fragrance Ambush, Dana may have been looking to evoke a sense of allure, mystery, and sudden intrigue, inviting the wearer to embrace a bold and unexpected persona.

The 1950s was a transformative decade in many ways, particularly in the realms of fashion, culture, and perfume. It was a period marked by post-war optimism, the rise of youth culture, and an era of conspicuous consumption. This time was characterized by a resurgence of femininity in fashion, with Christian Dior’s "New Look" (1947) continuing to dominate the style of the early 1950s—full skirts, fitted waists, and an emphasis on hourglass silhouettes. Women’s clothing, though elegant and refined, began to evolve as the decade wore on, with designers like Pierre Cardin and Jacques Fath introducing more youthful and casual styles that embraced the growing demand for more freedom in movement and expression.

Tabu by Dana c1932

Javier Serra, the founder of Les Parfums de Dana, chose to name two of his perfumes—Tabu and Totem—after Sigmund Freud's influential work Totem and Taboo, published in 1913. Freud’s book explored the psychological and cultural significance of totems and taboos in primitive societies, proposing that these concepts were fundamental to human behavior and the development of social structures. By naming his perfumes after this provocative text, Serra likely sought to evoke a sense of mystery, depth, and primal allure. Totem and Tabu both suggest powerful, elemental forces—symbols of belief, taboo, and ritual—that could be associated with deeply ingrained human instincts. The choice of these names suggests that Serra wanted his fragrances to evoke complex, emotional responses, tapping into the subconscious and exploring the intersection of civilization and the untamed, the familiar and the forbidden. These names not only connected his perfumes to intellectual and cultural themes but also positioned them as bold and evocative offerings in the competitive perfume market.

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.