How La Maison Dorin Paris Shaped Centuries of Beauty
March 21, 2025, Perfume, Maison DORIN PARIS
Founded by Mademoiselle Montansier Midway Through the 18th Century, the Maison Soon Became a Favorite Amongst Aristocrats and Nobility, and in 1780 It Became the Official Purveyor to the Royal Court of Versailles.
In the second half of the 18th century, a Parisian beauty brand called Fards Rouges & Blancs, founded by Mademoiselle Montansier—a renowned actress and businesswoman directing plays for the Royal Court of Versailles—rose to prominence for its exceptional powders, makeup, and perfumes. In 1780, in recognition of its superior quality, Queen Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI granted the brand the prestigious title of Supplier to the Royal Court of Versailles.
The Maison continued to supply Versailles until the French Revolution, a turning point that marked the downfall of the monarchy. Yet, Mademoiselle Montansier was undeterred. She navigated the shifting tides of history, ensuring the brand’s survival and growth. Her own career flourished alongside it—she managed esteemed establishments including the Théâtre des Beaujolais, the Théâtre du Palais Royal, and the Théâtre des Variétés.
To expand the business, Marguerite Montansier partnered with Jean-Marie Dorin, who later acquired the Maison and renamed it Dorin in 1819. With an unrelenting work ethic and a deep passion for innovation, Dorin refined the brand’s formulations, focusing on safety and ease of use.
In 1884, Hector Monin, then Mayor of Paris’s First Arrondissement, took over as the Maison’s new director. Under his leadership, Dorin expanded beyond France, bringing its exquisite beauty products to Europe and the Americas, elevating the brand to international renown.
Dorin Paris Shapes Beauty History and Returns to Glory
Dorin continued its pursuit of innovation, leaving a lasting mark on the history of modern perfumery. Un Air de Paris Montansier quickly became the must-have makeup product in the French capital.
In 1886, Dorin launched an eponymous perfume that would soon achieve legendary status. A unique scent blending iris, mandarin, and white peach with a soft powdery note, it became the Maison’s most iconic fragrance.
By 1920, Dorin products had reached global recognition. The brand’s influence was so profound that the word “Dorin” became synonymous with “lipstick” in the United States and “white powder” in Japan. Additionally, with the launch of the Pour Monsieur range, Dorin became one of the first brands to introduce a dedicated line of men’s grooming products.
After decades of near disappearance, the Maison was revived in 1998 when Bashar Nasri took on the mission of awakening this sleeping beauty—a Maison with a remarkable history ready to reclaim its place in the modern world.
The Musée Dorin
The Musée Dorin is symbolically located between Paris, the birthplace of Dorin, and the Royal Court of Versailles, in a historic building dating back to the 1860s.
Since 1998, Dorin France Excellence has curated a collection of over 700 items and archival documents, dedicated to retracing the rich history of the Maison. Visitors can explore exquisite perfume bottles and makeup products designed for royalty, stage actors, and beauty enthusiasts across the world—from Queens and Kings to Parisians and global trendsetters.
The Collections
Dorin Paris perfumes span multiple collections, each crafted by hand in the Maison’s workshops in the heart of Pays de la Loire, France. Every fragrance tells a story, blending heritage with artistry. Here are the most iconic collections:
SCENTS OF VERSAILLES
Inspired by Dorin’s deep ties to the Palace of Versailles, this collection celebrates the Maison’s royal history. It features five exquisite scents, each capturing a chapter of French heritage.
CLASSICS
A tribute to Un Air de Paris, Dorin’s most legendary fragrance, born in 1886. These timeless scents continue to define elegance and refinement.
LES DORINES
The essence of Maison Dorin. This collection honors Marguerite Brunet, also known as Mademoiselle Montansier—a visionary in theater and business. In 1780, she introduced Dorin to the Court of Versailles before becoming the director of royal performances.
EAUX POUDRÉES
A tribute to Dorin’s historic connection with powders and blushers. These five floral, powdery fragrances celebrate the flowers that have shaped French traditions and fashion.
DORIN D’OR
The Maison’s signature collection. These rare, luxurious scents are presented in golden bottles, housed in exquisite wooden cases—a tribute to Dorin’s most prestigious creations.
ORIENTAL PERFUMES
A bridge between cultures, this collection infuses traditional oriental fragrances with a French touch. Subtle nuances create a sensory journey, rich in warmth and mystery. Let Dorin transport you to a world of deep, evocative scents.
WITHOUT A HISTORY, A PERFUME HAS NO SCENT
🛍️ Shop Online: Most of Dorin Paris’ enchanting fragrances are available for purchase via the official online boutique.
🏛️ Private Visits: To schedule a private tour of Musée Dorin, please contact:
📧 Email: events@babble-up.com
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