Calvin Klein launched Obsession in 1985, and it was the brand’s first blockbuster in fragrance, far outselling the two fragrances that preceded it (Calvin Klein for women and Calvin for men, both long discontinued). Like many of the fragrances of the period, it was not meant to speak softly:

“The name Obsession is big, like a movie poster for this era,” said Calvin Klein. “I think of everything I’ve ever done, how obsessed I was. Everyone is obsessed in the Eighties. And, of course, the name suggests an obsession with someone. A man obsessed by a woman.” (via Women’s Wear Daily, 1/18/1985)

Obsession hit its mark perfectly; based on the steamy advertising and magazine scent strips, it reportedly sold out at many stores before they even had the first shipment in stock…

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