Sirocco by Lucien Lelong c1934

In 1934, the world was amidst the throes of the Great Depression, a time of economic hardship and cultural shifts. It was an era marked by both resilience and escapism, where the arts flourished as a form of solace and expression against the backdrop of global uncertainty. It was in this context that Parfums Lucien Lelong chose to launch "Sirocco," a fragrance that sought to evoke warmth, allure, and a sense of exoticism.

The name "Sirocco" originates from the warm, dry wind that blows from the Sahara Desert across the Mediterranean Sea into southern Europe. Derived from Arabic (ṣarūq), the term "Sirocco" embodies the essence of a wind that carries with it heat, sand, and a mystical quality.

Choosing "Sirocco" as the name for a perfume was not merely about geographical reference but also about evoking a specific sensory experience. The scent aimed to transport wearers to a place of warmth and sensuality, reminiscent of Mediterranean landscapes kissed by the desert wind. It was a name that promised intrigue, adventure, and a touch of the exotic, appealing to those seeking to escape the mundanity of everyday life during a challenging period.

No. 7 by Lucien Lelong c1950

No. 7 by Lucien Lelong: launched in 1950.

No. 6 by Lucien Lelong c1950

No. 6 by Lucien Lelong was launched in 1950.  

Indiscret by Lucien Lelong c1936

In 1936, the launch of Indiscret by Parfums Lucien Lelong occurred against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world. This period marked the interwar years, a time of transition and uncertainty between the devastation of the Great War and the looming tensions that would lead to World War II. Despite economic challenges, the world of fashion and perfumery in Paris thrived, driven by a spirit of elegance and escapism. Parisian haute couture houses like Lucien Lelong were at the forefront, shaping trends and setting standards in luxury and sophistication.

Parfums Lucien Lelong chose the name "Indiscret" deliberately, reflecting the allure and mystery associated with the word. In French, "Indiscret" translates to "indiscreet" or "indiscreetly" in English, pronounced as "AN-DEES-KRAY." The choice of this name for a perfume evokes a sense of intrigue, suggesting something secretive and seductive. It plays on the idea of revealing something private or intimate, perhaps hinting at a fragrance that captivates with its alluring and provocative nature.

"Indiscret" would have been seen as an appropriate name for a perfume in 1936 Paris, appealing to a sophisticated clientele who appreciated luxury and sophistication. The perfume likely targeted fashionable women who embraced elegance and a touch of daring in their personal style. Those who related to the name might have been intrigued by its promise of allure and the possibility of standing out in a crowd with a fragrance that spoke of sophistication and mystery.