Babe by Faberge c1976

"Babe" by Fabergé, introduced in 1976, was a fragrance that captivated the era with its unique blend of notes. Fabergé, known for its luxurious creations, crafted this perfume to embody elegance and sophistication. With its launch, it became an iconic scent, synonymous with femininity and charm. The fragrance was celebrated for its intricate combination of floral, fruity, and musky accords, creating a timeless allure that enchanted wearers and onlookers alike. Fabergé's "Babe" remains a cherished classic, evoking nostalgia for the glamour and refinement of its era.

"Babe" by Fabergé was conceived to encapsulate the essence of a modern, dynamic woman—a vision brought to life through the captivating persona of Margaux Hemingway. Launched in 1976, the fragrance aimed to evoke the spirit of a woman immersed in a vibrant and multifaceted life. She was envisioned as someone deeply engaged in her career, passionate about sports, and unapologetically embracing romance and adventure. This woman was not bound by conventional notions of femininity; instead, she exuded warmth, affection, and a confident allure.

Margaux Hemingway, then 21 years old, perfectly embodied the spirit of Babe. Her youthful energy, coupled with her undeniable charisma, resonated with women aged 16-30, who were drawn to her magnetic presence. Fabergé recognized her star power and made history by offering her an unprecedented million-dollar contract to become the face of Babe. This landmark deal signaled a shift in advertising dynamics, establishing Margaux Hemingway as an iconic figure and solidifying Babe's status as a fragrance synonymous with youthful sophistication and allure.

Margaux Hemingway's collaboration with Fabergé for the promotion of Babe was nothing short of iconic. Her appearances at upscale department stores not only drew crowds but also infused the fragrance with her own magnetic charm. In her signature husky voice, she famously described Babe as a reflection of herself— "loose and free and kind of crazy," capturing the essence of the scent's allure.

Hemingway's involvement undoubtedly played a pivotal role in Babe's staggering success, contributing to the sale of a remarkable $50 million worth of products within the Babe line. The fragrance itself was a harmonious blend of florals and woodsy notes, accentuated by hints of amber and musk, creating an irresistible olfactory experience.

Interestingly, while Babe embodied the essence of Margaux Hemingway's public persona, she reportedly had her own distinct fragrance—a secret concoction crafted from a blend of seeds and wildflowers. This personalized scent, unknown to the public, added an intriguing layer to Hemingway's mystique, highlighting her unique and enigmatic personality beyond the confines of her public image.

Since its debut in 1976, the Babe fragrance line remained the crown jewel of Fabergé's women's collection, consistently dominating sales charts. In 1982, recognizing its enduring popularity, Fabergé expanded the line to include a range of offerings tailored for different occasions.

To cater to the demand for thoughtful gifts on Mother's Day, Fabergé introduced a popularly priced gift set, providing consumers with an accessible yet luxurious option to celebrate the special women in their lives. This addition further solidified Babe's status as a go-to choice for discerning shoppers seeking elegance and sophistication.

Capitalizing on the festive spirit of the holiday season, Fabergé introduced novelty sets and seasonal 'stocking stuffers' for Christmas, tapping into the gift-giving tradition with offerings that exuded charm and allure. These seasonal additions not only enhanced the brand's appeal but also ensured that Babe remained at the forefront of consumers' minds during the busiest shopping periods of the year.

To support these new offerings and maintain Babe's momentum in the market, Fabergé continued its strategic marketing efforts, leveraging print ads and spot television commercials in key markets during peak selling periods. This multi-channel approach allowed the brand to effectively reach its target audience, driving sales and reinforcing Babe's position as a timeless classic in the world of fragrances.

In 1984, Fabergé launched a fresh campaign for the Babe fragrance line, spearheaded by Kathy Smith, a notable figure in the health and fitness industry. Standing at a statuesque height of 5'9" with her blond locks, Kathy Smith epitomized the epitome of health and vitality. Her appointment as Fabergé's health and fitness director underscored the brand's commitment to promoting an active and empowered lifestyle.

In the print ads, Kathy Smith exuded confidence and dynamism, embodying the essence of the Babe woman—a woman who was not only successful in her professional endeavors but also unafraid to embrace life's adventures, both physically and emotionally. With her magnetic presence, Kathy Smith became the living embodiment of Fabergé's vision for Babe, resonating with consumers who aspired to lead active, fulfilling lives.

Through Kathy Smith's representation, Fabergé successfully refreshed Babe's image, aligning it with the evolving aspirations of modern women. By embracing themes of empowerment, adventure, and vitality, the brand reaffirmed Babe's relevance in the hearts and minds of consumers, ensuring its continued success in the competitive fragrance market.

Fragrance Composition:

So what did it smell like? It is classified as a sweet spicy floral fragrance for women. It begins with a fresh aldehydic top, followed by a romantic floral heart, layered over a sensual powdery, woody base with aromatic herbal tones. 

• Top notes: aldehydes, raspberry, Italian bergamot, hyacinth
• Middle notes: jasmine, Zanzibar ylang ylang, lily of the valley, honey, rose, orris, carnation
• Base notes: benzoin, oak, coriander, Yugoslavian oakmoss, Mysore sandalwood, amber, vetiver, Tibetan musk and celery seed

"Babe" by Fabergé is a captivating fragrance that unfolds in layers, enticing the senses with its intricate blend of notes. Classified as a sweet spicy floral fragrance for women, it offers a rich olfactory experience that transitions from freshness to warmth, culminating in a sensual and alluring afterglow.

At the outset, Babe greets the wearer with a burst of freshness, characterized by aldehydic top notes that sparkle like dewdrops in the morning sun. This invigorating opening is complemented by the fruity sweetness of raspberry and the citrusy brightness of Italian bergamot, creating a vibrant and uplifting introduction. Hyacinth adds a touch of greenness, enhancing the fragrance's youthful and dynamic character.

As the scent evolves, it reveals a romantic floral heart that exudes femininity and charm. Jasmine, Zanzibar ylang ylang, lily of the valley, and rose intertwine in a delicate bouquet, evoking the image of a blooming garden in full bloom. Honey and orris add a subtle sweetness, while carnation lends a spicy nuance, infusing the composition with depth and complexity.

Finally, Babe settles into a sensual powdery, woody base that leaves a lasting impression. Benzoin and oak provide a warm and comforting foundation, while coriander and Yugoslavian oakmoss impart an aromatic herbal quality. Mysore sandalwood adds a creamy richness, while amber and vetiver contribute to the fragrance's earthy warmth. Tibetan musk and celery seed add a touch of intrigue, lingering on the skin like a whispered secret.

With its 118 essences, including fresh and unusual florals, woody notes, and a hint of warm amber and musk, Babe embodies sophistication and allure. Its green floral blend transitions seamlessly into a warm and very sexy afterglow, leaving a trail of elegance and sensuality in its wake.

Bottles:

 

The Babe fragrance line by Fabergé offered a comprehensive range of products designed to envelop consumers in its captivating scent, extending beyond traditional perfumes to include various bath, body, and grooming essentials. Here's a detailed breakdown of the product offerings:

• Non-aerosol spray cologne: A convenient and portable option for on-the-go application, providing a refreshing burst of fragrance.

• Splash cologne: A classic formulation intended for a more generous and indulgent application, allowing users to splash on the scent for a lasting effect.

• Concentrated cologne: A potent and long-lasting formulation that delivers a more intense fragrance experience, perfect for special occasions or evening wear.

• Light cologne: A subtle and airy interpretation of the Babe fragrance, ideal for everyday wear or occasions where a delicate scent is preferred.

• Body lotion: A luxurious moisturizing lotion infused with the Babe fragrance, designed to hydrate the skin while leaving it delicately scented.

• Bath oil: A decadent addition to bath time rituals, enriching the water with the intoxicating aroma of Babe while nourishing the skin with its emollient properties.

• Talcum powder: A silky-smooth powder imbued with the Babe scent, providing a luxurious finishing touch after bathing or showering.

• Deodorant stick: A reliable and effective deodorant option that not only keeps odors at bay but also imparts the irresistible fragrance of Babe.

• Roll-on deodorant: Another convenient deodorant option featuring a roll-on applicator for effortless and precise application.

• Bath powder: A fragrant powder designed to be sprinkled into bathwater, creating a sumptuous and aromatic bathing experience.

• Bath soap: Luxuriously scented soap bars infused with the Babe fragrance, cleansing the skin while leaving it delicately perfumed.

Fabergé collaborated with a select group of suppliers to manufacture and distribute the Babe cosmetic and treatment line. These included Anchor Brush, Orange Plastics, Corona Plastics, Imco Container, Risdon Manufacturing, Carr-Lowrey Glass, Bridgeport Metal Goods, and Roth-Pak, ensuring the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship across the entire product range.

• 0.25 oz Parfum in gold tone case
• 0.5 oz Parfum Splash
• 1/16 oz Perfume Spray

• 1/8 oz Cologne Splash
• 3/8 oz Cologne Splash
• 0.25 oz Essence de Nuit Cologne
• 2 oz Cologne Splash
• 1.25  oz Splash Cologne
• 2 oz Splash Cologne
• 6 oz Splash Cologne

• 0.5 oz Cologne Spray
• 0.84 oz Spray Cologne 
• 1 oz Non-Aerosol Spray Cologne
• 2 oz Non-Aerosol Spray Cologne
• 4 oz Non-Aerosol Spray Cologne
• 3 oz Aerosol Spray Cologne Mist
• 4.2 oz Aerosol Body Spray Cologne

 

 

• 3 oz Dusting Powder
• 3 oz Bath Powder with puff
• 5 oz Bath Powder with puff
• 8 oz Bath Powder with puff
• 1 oz Bath Powder Shaker
• 2 oz Talc Powder Shaker
• 4.2 oz Talc Shaker

• 2.5 oz Soap
• 3 oz Soap
• 3.4 oz Soap (Savon de Toilette)
• 4 oz Soap
• 4 oz Soap in plastic case

 

Since its debut in 1979, the Babe line of women's toiletries has emerged as a cornerstone of Fabergé's sales strategy, significantly contributing to the brand's success. By 1982, the collection had expanded to encompass an array of offerings tailored to meet the diverse needs and preferences of consumers.

The Babe line included a variety of colognes, gift sets, and both scented and unscented anti-perspirant deodorants, catering to different tastes and occasions. This comprehensive range ensured that there was a Babe product to suit every woman's lifestyle and fragrance preferences.

In 1982, Fabergé spared no effort in promoting the Babe line, leveraging a multi-faceted marketing approach to maximize visibility and drive sales. This included strategic print and television advertising campaigns that showcased the allure of Babe to a wide audience. Additionally, in-store promotions and special offerings were deployed to create buzz and incentivize purchases.

One notable promotion that yielded positive results was the introduction of a $1.00 consumer rebate on the purchase of any Babe anti-perspirant deodorant. This initiative not only encouraged trial and repeat purchases but also fostered customer loyalty by rewarding consumers for their patronage.

Furthermore, Fabergé identified and capitalized on the growing demand for travel-friendly products by introducing a new one-ounce trial and travel size Anti-Perspirant Roll-On Deodorant. This compact size, along with the previously introduced small size Splash Cologne, proved to be immensely popular among consumers, driving sales and further solidifying Babe's position as a trusted and beloved brand in the realm of women's toiletries.

• 1 oz Anti-Perspirant Roll On Deodorant
• 2.5 oz Super Dry Solid Anti-Perspirant Deodorant
• 4.5 oz Anti-Perspirant Spray Deodorant

• 8 oz Bubbling Bath
• 2 oz Moisturizing Bath Oil
• 2 oz Moisturizing Body Lotion
• 1 oz Body Lotion
• 6 oz Body Lotion

 

"Faberge thinks you're fabulous. In fact, they think you're so fabulous, they've named their newest fragrance: Babe ... just for you. A fragrance no natural, so fresh and lovely"

There was even a Babe Professional Hair Care line, skin care and a cosmetics line which was released in 1977. The cosmetics line included: lip color, automatic mascara, lip gloss, liquid lip gloss, soft creme blush, eyeshadow, liquid makeup. The skincare line included: cleansing facial soap, fabulous freshener (a toner), light liquid cleanser and a dewy moisturizer. All items were lightly scented with the Babe fragrance.

• 3/8 oz Liquid Lipgloss
• 4 oz Bar Facial Cleansing Soap
• 4 oz Dewy Moisturizer
• 6 oz Light Liquid Cleanser
• 6 oz Fabulous Freshener

Small premiums were given away as gifts with purchase. Among these are gold tone bracelets spelling out B-A-B-E in the center, a Babe note pad set with peach colored paper, a t-shirt with the Babe logo.

Fate of the Fragrance:

The entire Babe line by Fabergé, which had enjoyed significant success since its launch in 1976, was eventually discontinued in early 1992. This decision marked the end of an era for a fragrance that had become iconic in the world of women's toiletries and perfumes.

During its original run, a special edition cologne named "Babe by Night" (Essence Nuit) was also released. However, details about this particular variant are scarce, and it remains a lesser-known chapter in the history of the Babe line.

In 2015, Beauty Brand Development, a London-based company, took on the ambitious project of reviving Babe. Recognizing the nostalgic and timeless appeal of the fragrance, they reformulated and relaunched it, aiming to capture the essence of the original while appealing to a new generation of fragrance enthusiasts. This modern incarnation of Babe sought to honor the legacy of its predecessor while introducing its signature allure to contemporary audiences.

"After lengthy research we were fortunate enough to find the original ingredients from the public records and from collectors of the original perfume. This gave us the assurance that we could recreate the original Babe perfume. We employed the renowned French perfumer, Givaudan to develop the perfume, working with this information in their highly specialised laboratories to create numerous samples for the fans to test and eventually approve."

• Top notes: aldehydes, lavender and hyacinth
• Middle notes: rose, lily, violet, orris and ylang-ylang
• Base notes: sandalwood, ambrette, moss and solar notes 

The new "Babe"is a captivating fragrance that unfolds with sparkling aldehydes, calming lavender, and fresh hyacinth. The heart reveals a romantic bouquet of rose, lily, violet, orris, and exotic ylang-ylang. The scent settles into a warm, sensual base of creamy sandalwood, musky ambrette, earthy moss, and radiant solar notes, leaving an elegant and lasting impression.