Launched in 1994, Victoria's Secret Essences de Voyage represented a sophisticated foray into the world of exotic and travel-inspired fragrances. This collection was released during a time when the fragrance market was increasingly fascinated with scents that evoked both luxury and escapism. The early 1990s were characterized by a growing trend towards personal indulgence and exploration through fragrances, with many brands introducing scents that promised to transport users to distant, idyllic locations.
The name "Essences de Voyage" was carefully chosen to evoke a sense of wanderlust and sensory exploration. Translating to “Essences of Travel” in English, this name reflects the collection’s intent to offer a sensory journey through its rich and varied fragrance blends. The use of the word "Essences" implies a deep connection to the core, often exotic, elements of each scent, while "de Voyage" suggests an immersive experience akin to a journey or adventure.
For women in the 1990s, a perfume collection named Essences de Voyage would have been particularly appealing. It promised an escape from the everyday, offering an olfactory experience that combined the comfort of vanilla with exotic, far-flung aromas. This would have resonated strongly with a market interested in both self-pampering and the allure of distant destinations. The collection’s promise to indulge the senses and let the spirit wander aligns with a broader cultural trend of valuing experiences and personal indulgence during this period.
The imagery and emotions evoked by the name Essences de Voyage include a romantic vision of travel and exploration, evoking lush landscapes and distant shores. The collection would have been seen as an invitation to experience the world through scent, offering a touch of luxury and adventure to those who sought to enrich their daily lives with a sensory escape.