Mascarade by LT Piver was launched in 1928, during an era characterized by glamour, boldness, and significant cultural shifts. The choice of the name "Mascarade" (pronounced mahs-kah-RAHD in French) was likely intentional, evoking the mystery, elegance, and allure of a masquerade ball. The word "mascarade" originates from French, meaning "masquerade" or "a festive gathering where participants wear masks and costumes." It suggests images of opulence, intrigue, and revelry, inviting the wearer to step into a world of enchantment and mystery.
The late 1920s marked the culmination of the Roaring Twenties, a decade defined by artistic innovation, social liberation, and a departure from traditional norms. This was the age of Art Deco, a design movement that celebrated modernity and luxury with bold geometric patterns, rich colors, and opulent materials. Fashion was equally daring—women embraced shorter hemlines, beaded dresses, cloche hats, and bobbed hairstyles. The period was also known for its fascination with exoticism, fueled by global exploration and the popularity of Orientalist art and design.
In this vibrant context, the name Mascarade would have resonated deeply with women seeking to embody the spirit of sophistication and intrigue. A perfume called Mascarade would suggest a transformation, much like the role of a mask at a masquerade, allowing its wearer to assume a new identity—one of allure and mystery.