In 1889, Guerlain launched Jicky, a pioneering fragrance that incorporated synthetic vanillin alongside natural ingredients. This innovative approach marked a significant development in the perfumery industry, expanding the creative possibilities for fragrance creation. Jicky is often regarded as the first modern perfume, influencing future trends and the use of synthetic materials in scent formulation.

Guerlain's launch of Jicky with vanillin in 1889 represented a fusion of tradition and modernity, mirroring the tension in late 19th-century poetry. Poets like Charles Baudelaire explored themes of beauty and sensory experience, reflecting the changing landscape of consumer culture.