Friendship Garden by Shulton c1939

Friendship Garden by Shulton was launched in 1939.  It was originally called Early American Friendships Garden. It is a light, sparkling fragrance, that was aimed at the younger set and those wishing to recapture the carefree days of youth.

Escapade by Shulton c1954

Launched by Shulton in 1954, Escapade was a fragrance that promised to "shake your world a little," an enticing and bold claim that aligned with the spirit of the time. The name "Escapade" itself is intriguing and speaks to the allure of adventure and spontaneity. Derived from French, the word escapade (pronounced eh-skah-PAHD) means a carefree or adventurous undertaking, often one that involves a break from the ordinary. It conjures images of a secret getaway, a romantic rendezvous, or a fleeting moment of excitement. In essence, it captures the essence of youthful exuberance and a desire to break free from routine. The word evokes a sense of escapism—both literal and emotional—that would have appealed to women in the 1950s, a decade when many were seeking new freedoms and personal expression in the post-war world.

The 1950s were a time of significant cultural transformation. The period saw the rise of consumerism, with women embracing more luxurious and sophisticated tastes, while also finding empowerment in personal choices, particularly regarding fashion, beauty, and lifestyle. Feminine ideals were shifting, and the mid-century modern aesthetic, with its emphasis on elegance and optimism, defined much of the era. Women of the time were drawn to the idea of a fragrance like Escapade, which promised not just a scent but a feeling—one of freedom, spontaneity, and a touch of romance. The imagery tied to the word "Escapade" fit perfectly with the social and cultural atmosphere of the 1950s, a period that celebrated both modernity and timeless femininity.

As for the fragrance itself, Escapade is classified as a floral chypre, a genre beloved for its elegant balance between fresh florals and deep, earthy undertones. The opening is a burst of bright aldehydes and citrus, creating an invigorating first impression. As the fragrance unfolds, the heart reveals a classic floral bouquet of roses, carnations, lily of the valley, ylang-ylang, and jasmine, evoking the freshness and vibrancy of springtime. These floral notes rest upon a rich, woodsy base of sandalwood, musk, oakmoss, vetiver, and amber, which adds depth and complexity. The overall effect is lively, romantic, and radiant—a scent that captures the essence of a carefree adventure. The dry-down reveals a soft, powdery floral finish, with the woodsy notes lingering in the background, giving the fragrance a lingering warmth and elegance.

Blue Jeans by Shulton c1971

Before Gianni Versace came out with his Blue Jeans Fragrance, Shulton launched theirs in 1971.

Desert Flower by Shulton c1947

Desert Flower by Shulton, launched in 1947, is a name that conjures vivid imagery and carries rich symbolism. The term "Desert Flower"refers to a rare bloom that thrives in the harsh, arid conditions of the desert. It evokes images of resilience, beauty, and an almost mystical allure—a flower flourishing where life seems improbable. This duality of strength and delicacy mirrors the qualities many women of the time aspired to embody, making the name both poetic and aspirational. The phrase "Desert Flower" stirs emotions of awe, wonder, and appreciation for nature’s ability to create beauty in unexpected places, aligning seamlessly with the romanticism of the post-war era.

The time period in which Desert Flower was introduced was one of great transition and renewal. The world had just emerged from the turmoil of World War II, and society was entering a phase of optimism and modernity. This era, often referred to as the post-war boom, saw women embracing a newfound independence while simultaneously returning to domestic life as prosperity surged in many countries. Fashion during this time reflected this duality, blending the elegance of pre-war styles with softer, more feminine silhouettes—think Christian Dior’s "New Look," introduced in 1947, with its cinched waists and full skirts that celebrated grace and glamour.

A perfume named Desert Flower would have resonated deeply with women of the time. It symbolized survival, renewal, and beauty in adversity, echoing the societal shift toward rebuilding and thriving in the wake of the war. It appealed to the modern woman’s desire to embody both strength and allure, offering a sense of mystery and magnetism as promised in its advertisements. The tagline “modern, mysterious, magnetic” perfectly captured the evolving identity of women who were exploring their individuality within the framework of tradition.