Jfk's Favorite Scent: The Cologne He Loved

John F. Kennedy's favourite cologne was Eight & Bob, a fragrance he discovered while vacationing in the South of France in 1937. Kennedy was captivated by the scent worn by its creator, Albert Fouquet, and requested a sample. The cologne, featuring notes of pink pepper, cardamom, and lemon, was later sold commercially and remains one of the most exclusive fragrances on the market.

JFK met Albert Fouquet in the French Riviera

In the summer of 1937, John F. Kennedy, then a young American student touring France in a convertible, met Albert Fouquet on the French Riviera (Côte d'Azur). The son of a Parisian aristocrat, Fouquet was a self-made perfumer, known for his expertise in crafting fine fragrances. Kennedy, with his charm and congeniality, was immediately taken with Fouquet and his exquisite cologne.

Kennedy was particularly captivated by the scent Fouquet wore—a fragrance created solely for his personal use. Kennedy persuaded Fouquet to leave him a sample, and the next morning, Fouquet sent a small bottle of cologne to Kennedy's hotel, along with a cheeky note: "In this jar, you will find the dash of French glamour that your American personality lacks."

Kennedy returned to the United States but continued the correspondence with Fouquet. He wrote a letter raving about the success of the perfume among his friends and placed an order for eight more samples, "and if your production allows, another one for Bob." Thus, the iconic name "Eight & Bob" was born.

Fouquet meticulously prepared the order, waiting until his butler, Philippe, found beautiful glass jars in a Parisian pharmacy that were suitable for his cologne. He then labelled them with Kennedy's amusing request: "Eight & Bob."

Little did Fouquet know that his cologne would soon become wildly popular among Hollywood royalty and the rich and famous. The Kennedys' social circles helped spread the word, and soon, Fouquet was receiving letters from Hollywood directors, producers, and actors such as Cary Grant and James Stewart, all wanting their own bottle of "Eight & Bob."

The story of JFK and Albert Fouquet's meeting on the French Riviera is a fascinating chapter in the history of perfumery, one that combines French aristocracy, Hollywood glamour, and an exclusive scent that continues to captivate and intrigue.

JFK requested eight bottles of cologne and one for his brother, Robert

While vacationing on the French Riviera in 1937, John F. Kennedy met Albert Fouquet, a young dandy known for his expertise in crafting fine fragrances. Kennedy was particularly taken with the scent Fouquet wore, later called Eight & Bob. Fouquet left a sample of the cologne at Kennedy's hotel, along with a note that read, "In this bottle, you will find the dash of French glamour your American personality lacks."

After returning to the United States, Kennedy wrote to Fouquet to express his gratitude for the kind gesture and to inform him of the success his perfume was having among his friends. Kennedy then requested another order of eight bottles, plus one for his brother, Robert. This request is reflected in the cologne's name, "Eight & Bob."

The fragrance has notes of pink pepper, cardamom, and lemon, and it is considered one of the most exclusive colognes today. The bottle comes hidden in a book, and its production is limited. After remaining dormant for over 70 years, the cologne is now available again in limited quantities.

The story of JFK's favourite cologne has also been mentioned in Cristina Haag's book, "Come to the Edge," where she notes that JFK Jr. wore Eau Sauvage and vetiver. While the specific brand of vetiver is not known, it is speculated to be Guerlain Vetiver, which was released two years before JFK Jr.'s death.

The cologne was called Eight & Bob

After returning to the United States, Kennedy wrote to Fouquet to thank him for the kind gesture and requested eight samples, "and if your production allows, another one for Bob." This is how the fragrance got its name. Kennedy's appreciation for the cologne led to its popularity among his friends, and it is now considered one of the most exclusive colognes. The fragrance features notes of pink pepper, cardamom, and lemon.

Eight & Bob holds historical significance, as it was loved and worn by President John F. Kennedy. The cologne is presented in a unique way, with the bottle hidden inside a book, adding to its exclusivity. The fragrance has stood the test of time and is still available today, allowing people to experience a piece of Kennedy's elegance and French glamour.

JFK wore the cologne as president

John F. Kennedy's favourite cologne was Eight & Bob, a fragrance he discovered while vacationing in the South of France in 1937. Kennedy was captivated by the scent worn by its creator, Albert Fouquet, a young dandy known for his expertise in crafting fine fragrances. Fouquet left a sample of the cologne at Kennedy's hotel, along with a note that read, "In this bottle, you will find the dash of French glamour your American personality lacks."

Kennedy was so taken with the fragrance that he requested another order of eight bottles, along with one for his brother, Robert—hence the name "Eight & Bob." This cologne became a signature part of Kennedy's classic style, and he continued to wear it as president. The fragrance features notes of pink pepper, cardamom, and lemon, and its production is still limited, just as it was in the past.

Kennedy's appreciation for fine fragrances is well-documented, and his choice of cologne reflects his attention to detail and desire to present himself in a sophisticated and elegant light. The story of how he acquired his favourite cologne also showcases his appreciation for unique and exclusive items. Kennedy's request for additional bottles for himself and his brother highlights his desire to share his discoveries and enjoy them together.

The cologne's association with Kennedy adds to its allure and exclusivity, and it has become a sought-after fragrance for those who want to emulate Kennedy's style and sophistication. Even today, the cologne continues to be one of the most exclusive fragrances on the market, with limited production and a unique presentation—the bottle comes hidden in a book.

JFK's favourite cologne, Eight & Bob, is a testament to his appreciation for fine fragrances and his desire to present himself in a sophisticated and elegant manner. The cologne's limited production and association with Kennedy himself have only added to its allure, making it a timeless and iconic fragrance.

The cologne is still available today

John F. Kennedy's favourite cologne, Eight & Bob, is still available today. The scent was crafted by Albert Fouquet, whom Kennedy met while vacationing on the French Riviera in 1937. Kennedy was so taken with the fragrance that he asked Fouquet for a bottle. The cologne features notes of pink pepper, cardamom, and lemon. Kennedy later requested another order of eight bottles, plus one for his brother, Robert—hence the name, Eight & Bob.

Today, the fragrance is considered one of the most exclusive colognes on the market. It is presented in a limited quantity and comes hidden in a book, just as it was in the past. The cologne is available in 30ml and 100ml bottles, with prices ranging from $60 to $195.

The story behind the fragrance adds to its allure, with Fouquet's note to Kennedy stating, "in this bottle, you will find the dash of French glamour your American personality lacks." This blend of French sophistication and American spirit captures the essence of Kennedy's style and has become a timeless classic.

Eight & Bob has also released a special edition 50ml fragrance in collaboration with the Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights organization. This edition, dedicated to Kennedy's brother, features the original scent and showcases the brand's commitment to social responsibility.

With its rich history, elegant packaging, and captivating scent, Eight & Bob continues to be a sought-after fragrance, offering wearers a unique connection to the past and a touch of glamour.

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