The mid-1970s was a time of cultural shifts and fashion experimentation. Following the tumultuous 1960s, which saw significant social and political changes, the 1970s continued to break traditional norms. This decade was marked by a mix of rebellion against the status quo and a desire for individual expression. Disco culture was flourishing, with its vibrant, extravagant fashion, while the punk movement was beginning to emerge, challenging conventional aesthetics and societal expectations. Amid this backdrop, fashion designer Elsa Schiaparelli, known for her avant-garde and surrealist designs, made a significant impact.
Schiaparelli, a contemporary of Coco Chanel, was renowned for her bold, unconventional approach to fashion. Her designs often featured unexpected elements, such as her famous lobster dress and her collaborations with surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. Schiaparelli's connection to perfumes was a natural extension of her brand, blending her artistic vision with olfactory creations. She understood that a fragrance could be as much a part of a woman's identity as her clothing, and her perfumes were designed to complement her daring fashion.
The name "Shocking You" is a nod to Schiaparelli's iconic fragrance "Shocking," which was introduced in 1937 and named after her signature shocking pink color. "Shocking You," launched in 1976, would evoke the same sense of surprise and boldness that characterized Schiaparelli's work. The name suggests a fragrance that is daring, provocative, and unapologetically bold, capturing the spirit of the era's desire for self-expression and rebellion.
"Shocking You" would be an appropriate name for a perfume because it encapsulates the essence of Schiaparelli's brand—unconventional, vibrant, and designed to make a statement. It implies a scent that would stand out, defy expectations, and leave a lasting impression, much like Schiaparelli's fashion.
The target audience for a perfume called "Shocking You" would likely be women who were confident, daring, and eager to express their individuality. These women would be attracted to the perfume's promise of an audacious and distinctive fragrance experience. They would respond to "Shocking You" with enthusiasm, embracing its boldness as a reflection of their own personalities.
The name "Shocking You" evokes images of vibrant, electric colors, dynamic energy, and a sense of fearless adventure. It conjures feelings of excitement, confidence, and empowerment. The word "shocking" suggests something unexpected and thrilling, while "you" makes it personal and intimate, creating a connection between the fragrance and the wearer. Overall, "Shocking You" embodies the spirit of Schiaparelli's legacy and the adventurous spirit of the 1970s.
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? It is classified as a green floral fragrance for women. It starts off with a green top, followed by green, fruity floral heart, resting on a powdery, mossy base.
- Top notes: plum, peach, neroli, hyacinth, narcissus, galbanum, Calabrian bergamot and aldehydes
- Middle notes: fig, carnation, jasmine, ylang-ylang, orris root, rose, lily-of-the-valley and raspberry
- Base notes: musk, civet, vetiver, cypress, cedar, benzoin, musk, Mysore sandalwood, Yugoslavian oakmoss and leather
Scent Story:
In 1976, the fashion world gathered at the grand salon of Schiaparelli for an evening that promised to be as unforgettable and audacious as the designer herself. The salon was transformed into a dazzling disco wonderland, where the glimmer of black, gold, and light blue fabrics mingled with the opulence of haute couture. The air buzzed with excitement, not just for the fashion show, but for the launch of "Shocking You," the newest fragrance that paid tribute to the legendary Elsa Schiaparelli, who had passed away three years prior.
As I stepped into the salon, my senses were immediately overwhelmed. The space was filled with the intoxicating scent of fresh hyacinths and narcissus, their delicate petals artfully arranged in elaborate bouquets that adorned every corner. The fragrance of these flowers blended seamlessly with the air, creating an atmosphere that was both elegant and invigorating. The room's lighting, soft and golden, cast a warm glow over the shimmering fabrics and the eager faces of the attendees.
I moved through the crowd, feeling the smooth, cool silk of my gown brush against my skin. The fabric was exquisite, with gold threads woven into intricate patterns that caught the light with every movement. I reached out to touch the nearest display, a mannequin adorned in a stunning black and gold ensemble. The texture of the fabric was rich and luxurious, a testament to Schiaparelli's enduring legacy of impeccable craftsmanship.
From the speakers, the pulsing beat of disco music filled the air, a lively rhythm that made my heart race. The sound was infectious, urging everyone to move, to dance, to celebrate. Conversations buzzed around me, a symphony of excitement and anticipation as guests discussed the upcoming show and the new fragrance. The scent of "Shocking You" began to weave its way through the crowd, a green floral symphony that started with the crisp, fresh notes of plum, peach, Tunisian neroli, Dutch hyacinth, Dutch narcissus, Persian galbanum, Calabrian bergamot, and aldehydes.
As I savored a sip of champagne, its effervescence tickling my tongue, the director of Schiaparelli took the stage. She was elegant and poised, her voice clear and resonant as she began to speak about the new fragrance. She explained how each ingredient had been meticulously sourced from around the world, emphasizing the luxury and rarity of the raw materials. From the fig and French carnation to the Grasse jasmine and Madagascar ylang-ylang, each element was chosen for its exceptional quality and unique scent profile.
The fragrance's heart was a lush, fruity floral bouquet, a harmonious blend of fig, French carnation, Grasse jasmine, Madagascar ylang-ylang, Italian orris root, Grasse rose, Alpine lily-of-the-valley, and raspberry. The director described how these notes intertwined, creating a rich, multi-dimensional experience that was both sophisticated and playful. As she spoke, the fragrance seemed to bloom in the air, its layers unfolding and revealing new facets with each breath.
Finally, the base notes emerged, grounding the fragrance with a deep, sensual warmth. Tibetan musk, Abyssinian civet, Haitian vetiver, cypress, Virginian cedar, Siamese benzoin, Mysore sandalwood, Yugoslavian oakmoss, and Russian leather created a powdery, mossy foundation that lingered on the skin, leaving a lasting impression. The director's words painted a vivid picture of the fragrance's journey, from the initial green burst to the complex, velvety finish.
As the show began, models glided down the runway in breathtaking ensembles that combined the daring spirit of disco with the timeless elegance of haute couture. The black, gold, and light blue fabrics shimmered under the lights, each outfit a testament to Schiaparelli's visionary creativity. The scent of "Shocking You" enveloped the room, a perfect accompaniment to the visual feast before me.
In that moment, I felt a profound connection to the legacy of Elsa Schiaparelli. "Shocking You" was more than just a fragrance; it was an embodiment of her daring, her artistry, and her relentless pursuit of beauty and innovation. The name was a fitting tribute, evoking images of boldness, surprise, and the thrill of the unexpected. For those of us who admired and were inspired by Schiaparelli, "Shocking You" was a way to carry a piece of her daring spirit with us, a scent that would always remind us to be bold, to be fearless, and to never shy away from making a statement.
Bottles:
Fate of the Fragrance:
The fragrance "Shocking You" by Schiaparelli, launched in 1976 as a tribute to the iconic designer Elsa Schiaparelli, had a storied history marked by its unique blend of green floral notes and its association with the fashion house's daring spirit. Despite its initial popularity, the perfume was discontinued at an unknown date, leaving its exact fate a mystery to perfume enthusiasts. Remarkably, it continued to be available for purchase as late as 1984, showcasing its enduring appeal and the timeless allure of its composition. Its brief resurgence in availability in the mid-1980s served as a testament to its status as a beloved fragrance that transcended trends and remained cherished by those who appreciated its bold and distinctive character.
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