Popular Perfumes From The '50s That Will Make You Smell Like An Old Hollywood Icon

Despite Old Hollywood being firmly in the past, it seems the era still has more to offer. From the stunning eyeliner looks from Old Hollywood's biggest stars to old-school beauty tips from Joan Crawford that you can still use today, there are a lot of things to learn from these glamorous starlets. And rather than more beauty tricks, you can now bathe yourself in the same scents that legends such as Rita Hayworth and Katharine Hepburn regularly reached for. 

The sultry Rita Hayworth, for example, was reportedly in love with Guerlain's Shalimar perfume made in 1925. It seemed "The Lady from Shanghai" star favored sweeter floral, muskier scents, as the perfume incorporated notes of vanilla, tonka beans, bergamot, iris, and jasmine. But if you prefer sharper, woodier scents, like the orange-scented perfumes that are having a moment this summer, then Guerlain's Vol de Nuit would be the ideal fit. A go-to of four-time Oscar winner Katharine Hepburn, the perfume has notes of black pepper, daffodil, and galbanum that would be perfect for any event.

Other Old Hollywood legends also deserve a mention of their own, their go-to scents as iconic as they were in life. Elizabeth Taylor was known for her extravagance, so it comes as no surprise that her favorite perfume was as luxurious as they come. The brainchild of world-class perfumer Jean Desprez, Bal á Versailles — as the name suggests — was inspired by the ostentatious festivities that were the hallmark of the Palace of Versailles. This rich, powdery scent has top notes of bergamot, neroli, and orange blossoms, along with ylang-ylang, vetiver, vanilla, and sandalwood.

Another equally opulent figure in Old Hollywood was Grace Kelly, whose transition to royalty in 1956 cemented her status as an unforgettable icon. However, Kelly's favorite perfume was a custom creation specially designed for her nuptials. Creed's Fleurissimo has top notes of mandarin orange and bergamot, along with an infusion of sandalwood, tuberose, jasmine, and orris. Truly, the perfect accompaniment for anyone's special day.