The Dressing Table

[Shelley Dziedzic]

Seems a frivolous topic, but as fashion has had a good run here, why not other little luxuries of the era. Here is a charming link on the perfumes and perfumiers of the 1900's. I was enchanted to learn that Lalique produced many bottle designs for the great designer colognes, and loved the story of how Francois Coty's single note rose floral perfume was slow to move from the shelf until one day a bottle broke on the carpet and women shoppers clamored to know the brand -the 500 bottles soon flew from the display. Houbigant came out with Quelques Fleurs in 1912, which is still available (although some of the great perfume brands are now owned by Proctor and Gamble of all things). These Art Nouveau bottles are lovely, and thinking Chanel was the first to come out with real designer perfume in the 20's with Chanel No. 5, I was surprised to learn Poiret had beat her to the punch earlier with his "Chez Poiret" and a diversion into the Oriental theme. Pricey stuff it was too- and a far cry from a dab of vanilla extract or lavender water behind the ear. http://www.perfumes.com/eng/bottles_1800.htm

 

[Jonathan Granato]

I spray Lalique vanilla/sandalwood on my (hirsute) chest every night before I go to bed. Never use it for anything else. Gives the bedding a fragrant, lingering waft of scent the next morning (or afternoon, as it's been w/me these past few weeks!).

 

[Shelley Dziedzic]

At last, clear directions for getting that Gibson Girl pouf using hair rats. These can be fashioned from the legs of pantyhose carefully padded out with real hair,more scraps of pantyhose or polyfill. Rather like pushing a large doughnut down over one's head. The site has some other useful hints for achieving the Edwardian look.
http://intimelyfashion.com/index2.html

 

[Shelley Dziedzic]

Looks like you'll have to click on "Hairstyles" then "Edwardian". There are some Titanic dress and jewelry links too.