Launched in 1942, Lancôme’s Marrakech was a fragrance that embodied the allure and mystery of French Morocco—a land that captivated European imagination with its exotic landscapes, vibrant culture, and intricate artistry. The name "Marrakech" itself refers to the historic city in Morocco, and is pronounced as “mah-rah-kesh.” The word evokes rich sensory images: sun-drenched orange groves, the intricate patterns of Moorish architecture, the softness of flowing silks, and the intoxicating blend of spices and florals carried on desert winds. Emotionally, it conjures feelings of adventure, opulence, and an escape to a faraway, enchanting world.
The perfume debuted during the difficult years of World War II, a time marked by austerity and upheaval in Europe. Despite the hardships, there remained a yearning for beauty and fantasy—an opportunity for women to momentarily transcend the constraints of war through scent. This period, often described as the Occupied Years in France, saw fashion and perfumery navigate a balance between practicality and desire. While the war limited resources, the fascination with exoticism and the “Oriental” aesthetic in perfumery grew stronger, reflecting a broader cultural fascination with far-flung places and the romance of the unknown.
Armand Petitjean’s choice of the name "Marrakech" captured this zeitgeist perfectly. It signaled a departure from the restrained and classic floral perfumes of the past toward something more opulent and sensuous. Classified as a seductive floral oriental, Marrakech featured dominant notes of rose, magnolia, and orange blossom delicately layered over a rich leather base. This combination evoked both softness and strength, echoing the dual nature of Marrakech itself—a city of beauty and resilience. The original 1945 Lancôme catalog described the scent as a journey through “the perfumed breezes of orange groves and Moorish gardens, mingled with the deep, heady aromas of caravans paused in the heat of the desert,” perfectly capturing its exotic and luxurious essence.
