Tuvara by Tuvache c1948

In 1948, the launch of Tuvara by Tuvache occurred during a post-war period marked by a desire for renewal and elegance. This era was characterized by a shift in societal norms, where fragrances played a significant role in expressing sophistication and femininity. The name "Tuvara" holds a special significance rooted in both botanical and personal symbolism. Cassia, the plant from which the name derives, is known for its aromatic properties, often used in perfumery for its warm, spicy notes reminiscent of cinnamon. This connection to cassia suggests a perfume with a rich, comforting aura, likely appealing to those seeking a blend of exotic allure and familiar warmth.

Bernadine de Tuvache's decision to name the perfume "Tuvara" likely stemmed from personal and strategic considerations. Naming it after her daughter suggests a deep personal connection, possibly intending to imbue the fragrance with qualities associated with her daughter's essence: youth, beauty, and a timeless charm. Strategically, choosing a botanical name like Tuvara aligns with the trend of naming perfumes after natural elements, evoking images of lush gardens and exotic locales, which were particularly appealing in the immediate post-war period.

"Tuvara" would have resonated with sophisticated women of the era who valued elegance and understated luxury. It would likely have been embraced by those who appreciated fragrances that blended floral and spicy notes, offering a sense of both refinement and warmth. Women who wore Tuvara might have felt enveloped in a scent that conveyed both familiarity and a touch of exoticism, suitable for both daytime wear and evening engagements.

The name "Tuvara" evokes images of sun-dappled gardens, where fragrant blooms mingle with spices under a warm, inviting sun. It suggests a fragrance that is both comforting and intriguing, with notes that unfold to reveal layers of sophistication and allure. Emotionally, "Tuvara" might evoke feelings of nostalgia for simpler times yet with an appreciation for modern elegance and femininity. Overall, Tuvara by Tuvache embodies a blend of botanical charm and personal elegance, capturing the spirit of its time with grace and allure.

Tuvara was available as:

• Perfume
• Skin perfume
• Bath perfume
• Soap
• Dusting powder
• Talc

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as an oriental fragrance for women. Comprised of tantalizing aromatic spices for a dramatic, bold, sparkling fragrance. It starts off with a spicy fruity top, followed by a spicy, exotic floral heart, layered over a sweet balsamic base. Intensely, electrifying - a spicy fragrance as magnetic as it is lasting.

• Top notes: aldehydes, mandarin, orange, fruits, cardamom, allspice, cassia, ginger, nutmeg
• Middle notes: jasmine, oriental rose, carnation, cinnamon bark, ylang ylang, orris
• Base notes: patchouli, vanilla, vetiver, benzoin, tolu balsam, incense, ambergris

Scent Story:

At Bergdorf Goodman, the air was filled with the enchanting scent of fresh red roses and carnations, their petals vibrant against the elegant backdrop of Mme. Bernadine Tuvache's perfume launch. The perfume department shimmered with a sense of anticipation as guests gathered, their eyes drawn to the display of sparkling evening gowns that echoed the essence of the new fragrance, "Tuvara".

Mme. Tuvache herself stood at the heart of the gathering, her presence as graceful as the fragrance she presented. Her voice, smooth and assured, carried through the room as she explained the inspiration behind Tuvara. "This perfume," she began, her accent lending a soft cadence to her words, "was crafted for moments of utmost sophistication." Her eyes twinkled with pride and maternal warmth as she revealed that Tuvara was named after her own beloved daughter.

As she spoke, the air seemed to come alive with the essence of Tuvara. The first notes to greet the senses were bright and lively—a burst of aldehydes and mandarin, tinged with the warmth of cardamom and the exotic allure of cassia. It was as if the air itself carried the zest of orange and the subtle spice of nutmeg, inviting anticipation with every breath.

Moving closer to the display, guests could almost taste the tantalizing blend that Mme. Tuvache described. There was a hint of ginger, adding a touch of fire to the fruity top notes, and allspice weaving through, promising depth and complexity. The senses reveled in the promise of what was to come, the perfume unfolding like a well-orchestrated symphony of flavors.

Amidst the soft murmur of conversation, the heart of Tuvara emerged—jasmine and oriental rose entwined with carnation and the rich, earthy tones of cinnamon bark. Ylang ylang added a floral sweetness, while orris lent a powdery softness that danced lightly upon the skin. Each note seemed carefully chosen to evoke a sense of opulence and femininity, resonating with the luxury of the evening gowns that surrounded them.

The base notes lingered, drawing one deeper into the embrace of Tuvara. Patchouli and vanilla melded with vetiver and benzoin, creating a warm, balsamic foundation that was both comforting and seductive. Tolu balsam and incense added a hint of mystery, while ambergris whispered of far-off shores, leaving a lingering impression of sophistication and allure.

Guests couldn't help but be drawn in, their fingers tracing the delicate bottles adorned with the name "Tuvara", their touch a testament to the craftsmanship and artistry behind each drop. Mme. Tuvache's explanation of the rare and precious ingredients—sourced from around the globe—added to the perfume's allure, each essence a testament to the perfume's grandeur and exclusivity.

As the evening unfolded, Tuvara by Tuvache proved to be more than a fragrance—it was an experience. A bold, sparkling oriental scent that captured the essence of sophistication and elegance, leaving its mark on all who encountered it, much like the indomitable spirit of Mme. Bernadine Tuvache herself.

Vogue, 1965:

"This is sexy. Well, if a determined mix of cardamon and cassia, ginger and nutmeg, is sexy, Tuvara is. Named after the daughter of the late Mme. Tuvache, author of Jungle Gardenia (the pet, remember?, of one of our most alluring movie queens), Tuvara comes in fifteen forms, starting a couple of months ago ranging from perfume to purse sprays through skin perfume through powder through soap.."

Mademoiselle, 1966:

"Tuvara by Tuvache is all spices. Lentheric bottled a country lane and called it Tweed. Finally, sniffed from Dana, a mingling of delicate flowers, a high note of red, red roses called Platine."

Harper's Bazaar, 1967:

"Spicy scents, traditionally tantalizing, include Intoxication by D'Orsay, adventurous and elusive; 20 Carats by Dana, sparkling, bouyant, pulse-quickening; Tuvara by Tuvache, spiciness with brilliant clarity — purposeful, persistent. Surely not to disappoint."

Mademoiselle, 1967:

"Patchouli, allspice, rose, and jasmine: the sexy seasoning Tuvache calls Tuvara"

The Victoria Advocate, Apr 5, 1968:

"TUVARA PERFUME . Try Tuvara, a bold and shimmering blend as immediate as tonight! Tuvara stays and stays,, with a freshness and clarity that never flog. A travel flacon of Tuvara Skin Perfume is yours as a gift with the $3.50 purchase of Tuvara from Tuvache. Priced from $3.50 to $40.00."

San Diego Magazine, 1974:

"Jungle Gardenia and Tuvara by Tuvache jungle Gardenia frees the spirit, liberates the mind and encourages memorable moments of pleasure that linger long after you leave. Tuvara is a piquant blend of rose, jasmine, patchouli, vetiver and sweet balsam. It delivers a promise of better things to come. Spray Mist 2 oz. 6.50, Creme All Over Lotion 8 oz. 6.50 Perfume 1/3 oz. $10."

Vintage 1960s bottle of Tuvara skin perfume, photo from ebay seller iconpix

Fate of the Fragrance:

The journey of Tuvara by Tuvache took an unexpected turn when it was discontinued, the exact date lost in the annals of perfume history. Despite its departure from shelves, its allure persisted, still available for purchase as late as 1981. This longevity attested to its enduring appeal, cherished by those who valued its distinctive blend of oriental spices and floral richness.

Around 1995, Tuvara was resurrected under the careful curation of Long Lost Perfumes/Irma Shorell, Inc., a revival that sparked renewed interest among fragrance enthusiasts. The reformulation aimed to capture the essence of the original while adapting to modern sensibilities. The result was a perfume that retained the essence of its predecessor yet bore a contemporary twist.

Though not exactly the same as the original, the reformulated Tuvara unfolds with a richness that is both nostalgic and refreshing. Herbaceous notes greet the senses, their green, earthy tones evoking images of lush gardens and ancient spices. This herbaceous quality adds depth and complexity, setting the stage for the perfume's unfolding story.

Spice takes center stage in the heart of the fragrance, with a symphony of oriental spices weaving together in harmonious union. Each note—warm, inviting, and intricately layered—creates a tapestry of scent that is both familiar and exotic. The spicy allure is unmistakable, drawing one deeper into its embrace with every inhalation.

As the perfume settles, its oriental character becomes more pronounced. A lingering richness, enhanced by balsamic undertones, leaves a lasting impression on the skin. The warmth of amber and the subtle sweetness of vanilla add a luxurious finish, rounding out the perfume's composition with a touch of indulgence.

For those who experience the reformulated Tuvara, it is not just a fragrance but a journey through time—a testament to resilience and reinvention. Classified as a spicy amber (oriental) perfume for women, it embodies the spirit of sophistication and allure, resonating with those who appreciate complexity and timeless elegance in their olfactory experiences.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does the reformulation smell like?  It has been described as "rich, herbaceous and spicy. " and is classified as a spicy oriental fragrance for women.

• Top notes: chamomile, bergamot, lavender and aldehydes. 
• Middle notes: ylang-ylang, geranium, jasmine, patchouli, incense. 
• Base notes: sandalwood, myrrh, vetiver, labdanum, oakmoss, musk, patchouli and vanilla.

Scent Profile:

The reformulation of Tuvara by Long Lost Perfumes/Irma Shorell, Inc. unveils a tapestry of olfactory delights, capturing the essence of its heritage while embracing a contemporary allure. Described as "rich, herbaceous, and spicy," this spicy oriental fragrance for women begins its journey with a captivating blend of top notes. Chamomile and lavender infuse the opening with a soothing herbal bouquet, complemented by the brightness of bergamot and the sparkling touch of aldehydes. Together, they create an initial impression that is fresh yet complex, inviting the senses to delve deeper.

As Tuvara evolves, the heart notes unfold with a rich tapestry of floral and earthy tones. Ylang-ylang adds a floral sweetness, while geranium and jasmine contribute their lush, aromatic facets. Patchouli and incense lend a mystical depth, their smoky, resinous qualities intertwining with the floral bouquet. This intricate interplay of notes evokes a sense of opulence and intrigue, drawing the wearer into a world of sensory delight.

In its final act, Tuvara's base notes anchor the fragrance with a warm and enveloping embrace. Sandalwood and myrrh provide a creamy, woody richness, while vetiver and oakmoss add an earthy green undertone. Labdanum and musk enhance the perfume's depth, imbuing it with a sensuous allure that lingers on the skin. Vanilla adds a sweet, comforting finish, rounding out the composition with a touch of indulgence and warmth.

For those who encounter the reformulated Tuvara, it is more than just a fragrance—it is a symphony of scents that celebrates the complexities of femininity and sophistication. Each note, carefully selected and harmoniously blended, contributes to a perfume that is as timeless as it is contemporary, offering a sensory experience that captivates and delights with every wear.

Fate of the Fragrance:

The original Tuvara fragrance by Tuvache, renowned for its spicy oriental allure and timeless elegance, was discontinued at an unknown date, leaving a void in the hearts of its dedicated followers. Despite its departure from the market, Tuvara remained a cherished gem in the world of perfumery, celebrated for its rich complexity and distinctive blend of aromatic notes. In a bid to revive its legacy, Long Lost Perfumes/Irma Shorell, Inc. reformulated Tuvara around 1995, introducing a new version that retained its original spirit while incorporating contemporary nuances. However, this reformulation too was eventually discontinued, adding to the mystique and rarity of the fragrance. The discontinuation of both the original and its reformulated version has left Tuvara as a coveted collector's item, its enchanting scent and storied past enduring in the memories and collections of those who treasured its unique essence.