Balalaïka by Lucien Lelong c1939

Balalaïka by Lucien Lelong: launched in 1939.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? An uplifting, powdery, floral oriental fragrance for women. It is a light floral with hyacinth as main top note, with a spicy background, it's woody notes layered over a fern-laden fougere base.  Gay floral with hyacinth highlight.

• Top notes: aldehydes, tangerine, mandarin, bergamot, plum, hyacinth
• Middle notes: fern, jasmine, rose, carnation, lavender, violet, rosewood, gardenia, anise, clove, cinnamon, nutmeg, orris
• Base notes: ambergris, labdanum, oakmoss, patchouli, vetiver, cedar, musk, vanilla, sandalwood, fougere accord

Arts & Decoration, Volume 53, 1940:

"On the lighter side, a new cologne by Lucien Lelong called Balalaika is a good all-around choice. It's a carefree scent, suggesting a field of flowers in the sun, with cool ferny undertones."

The New Yorker, 1963:

" Sirocco- sultry lure, Balalaika- lilting floral, Opening Night— dazzling drama, Numero 7- joyously romantic, Orgueil— elegant intrigue. Beloved fragrances in the provocative mood- cherished for their extraordinary power to move men's hearts!"

Bottles:

Balalaika Parfum was presented in a conical bottle, molded with ascending swirls, accented with gilding. The bottle has an inner glass stopper and a glass over cap.

• 1/4 oz bottle stands 2.75" tall.
• 1/2 oz bottle stands 3.25" tall.
• 1 oz bottle stands 4.25" tall.
• 2 oz bottle stands 5" tall.
• 3 oz bottle stands 5.75" tall
• Factice bottle stands 7" tall.

Fashions of the Hour, 1940:

"The light gaiety of Balalaika perfume dances straight to her heart. A capricious presentation by Lucien Lelong in a cone shaped glass bottle decorated with swirling gold-colored lines. Bright yarn dolls encircle the box. 1 ounce - $10."

Arts & Decoration, Volume 54-55, 1941:

"The fragrance is Balalaika, an ideal summer scent. A nice traveling companion since there is no danger of leakage, although you will want to keep one close at hand all through the hot weather to cool your fevered brow."

 

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued, date unknown. Still being sold in 1975. Was reformulated and relaunched around 2005 or so.