Conquête by Lancôme was launched in 1935, a year that marked the grand debut of the French house itself. The fragrance was one of the five original perfumes introduced by Armand Petitjean at the International Exposition in Brussels—each conceived to express a unique facet of femininity and French sophistication. Petitjean, a former Coty executive and an admirer of French culture and elegance, named this scent Conquête, a French word meaning "conquest" or "the act of conquering." Pronounced kohn-KET (with a soft nasal "on"), the name evokes a sense of triumph, seduction, and bold elegance. It was a deliberate, aspirational title, reflecting Petitjean's vision not only for the fragrance itself but also for the brand: "It was necessary to conquer the world to make the reputation of Lancôme’s willpower," he once declared. Conquête symbolized more than just olfactory delight—it was a statement of ambition and feminine power.
The word Conquête conjures imagery of elegance and allure—perhaps a woman entering a grand theater, her presence commanding attention with just a trace of scent. There is a suggestion of determination and sophistication wrapped in mystery. In scent, Conquête interprets this theme through a bold aldehydic opening, followed by a heart of sumptuous roses—full-bodied and romantic—resting on a leathery, mossy chypre base. The leather lends an animalic sensuality, while the moss grounds the fragrance in the timeless language of classical perfumery. The overall effect is both commanding and deeply feminine.
