Godey's Lady's Book, 1852
In the more industrially innocent days of our Victorian ancestors, women frequently opted to concoct their own fragrances and beauty potions. The cost was minimal, but the investment of time and effort was considerable. Many of the ingredients could be found right in a woman's own household. In the garden, a variety of fragrant flowers and herbs could be used to create pleasantly scented waters, lotions, and hair rinses. Almonds, lemon juice, milk, olive oil, and even wine might be called for in many Victorian beauty recipes. Of course, no respectable lady would have chosen a heavy, overwhelming scent. To do so would be considered "common" and was morally equivalent to "painting one's face". A soft, subtle scent was prefered. The most popular fragrances were lavender and rose, but cinnamon, mint, sage, chamomile, and others were not uncommon. Today's easy availability of mass produced and pre-packaged beauty products makes it unnecessary for twentieth century women to concoct their own beauty potions, although they probably have more to fear from the additives used today than did our nineteenth century ancestors. Ladies' books that our great grandmothers read warned of the impurity of processed goods that might contain additives such as "olive oil" and "salt of tartar". Today's fillers and stretchers are far more complex and much less easily identified! It's certainly still possible to create your own perfume or hand cream, and certainly easier today than it was a hundred years ago. They are inexpensive, easy to make, all natural, and very Victorian. Package your home-made potions in fancy bottles or jars with a lovely Victorian label and give as gifts. The recipients will be delighted, and Granny would be very proud! |
"It is a woman's business to be beautiful."