Chloro-Cologne by Schiaparelli c1952

In 1952, Schiaparelli unveiled a bold innovation in the world of fragrance with Chloro-Cologne. Infused with chlorophyll, this cologne offered a unique twist on traditional scents like Shocking and Si from the Schiaparelli line. Chlorophyll, once heralded for its purported ability to neutralize odors, was a trendy addition in various personal care products of the era, despite later scientific findings that it merely dulled the perception of smells by desensitizing olfactory nerve endings.

 

Harper's Bazaar captured the allure of Schiaparelli's Chloro-Cologne, describing it as a refreshing antidote to the day's heat. Packaged in generous twelve-ounce bottles, it boasted the unmistakable essence of "Shocking," its cool green hue derived from chlorophyll lending an aura of cleanliness and freshness to the skin. Offered at $5, it became a sought-after item at prestigious retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue.

Kiplinger's Personal Finance humorously acknowledged the blend as "Chloro-Cologne de Schiaparelli," mixing chlorophyll with a generous splash of the renowned Shocking fragrance. This combination, perhaps included for its aromatic safety, highlighted Schiaparelli's penchant for bold experimentation in scent composition, marking Chloro-Cologne as both a functional and fashionable addition to personal grooming routines of the time.

Harper's Bazaar, 1952:

"Giant editions of famous classics help improve a September day. Here, twelve ounces of Schiaparelli's Chloro-Cologne scented with "Shocking" and turned cool green by chlorophyll, to keep your skin clean and fresh. $5. Saks Fifth Avenue."

Kiplinger's Personal Finance, 1952:

"Chloro-Cologne de Schiaparelli — chlorophyll plus a slug of the famous Shocking fragrance, presumably thrown in for safety's sake."

Si by Schiaparelli c1957

In 1957, when Schiaparelli launched her perfume "Si," it was a time marked by post-war optimism and a resurgence of creativity in fashion and art. The name "Si" carries a multifaceted significance that intertwines with both music and the essence of Schiaparelli herself. Derived from the "Valse des Si," a waltz composed by Henri Sauguet dedicated to Schiaparelli, "Si" resonates with musical notes, particularly the note B, and also serves as a play on the French word for "yes" and the English pronoun "it." The name cleverly incorporates the first and last letters of Schiaparelli's surname, embodying a personal touch that reflects her bold and innovative spirit.

Additionally, the association with Juliette Gréco's song "Si" adds another layer of cultural resonance. Gréco, known for her avant-garde style and artistic expression, infused the song "Si" with emotional depth and modernity, mirroring Schiaparelli's approach to fashion and fragrance. Thus, "Si" as a perfume name not only captures musical inspiration but also embodies a sense of sophistication, allure, and artistic flair that defined the era.

The choice of "Si" as a perfume name would have resonated deeply with individuals who appreciated Schiaparelli's avant-garde designs and sought to embody her unique blend of creativity and elegance. Those attracted to the perfume would likely respond with intrigue and admiration, drawn to its evocative name and the promise of a fragrance that encapsulated Schiaparelli's daring and innovative vision.