Surrender by Ciro c1931

"Surrender" by Parfums Ciro was launched in 1932, a period steeped in the glitz and glamour of early Hollywood films, where themes of romance, seduction, and intrigue were prominent. The early 1930s marked a significant era in cinematic history, characterized by the transition from silent films to "talkies," bringing a new dimension to storytelling and emotional expression on screen. This period also saw the rise of iconic film stars like Greta Garbo, Marlene Dietrich, and Jean Harlow, whose performances often revolved around themes of passion and allure. Films such as "Grand Hotel" (1932) and "Shanghai Express" (1932) exemplified these themes, showcasing complex characters entangled in romantic and seductive narratives.

Given the cultural milieu, Parfums Ciro's choice of the name "Surrender" for their perfume aligns perfectly with the zeitgeist of the time. The word "surrender" carries connotations of yielding and giving in, often in the context of romantic or emotional capitulation. This made it a fitting name for a perfume, as fragrances are deeply tied to personal and intimate experiences. The name evokes a sense of giving oneself over to desire, much like the heroines in the films of the era. "Surrender" suggests a willingness to be vulnerable and to embrace one's sensuality, which would resonate with the themes prevalent in popular culture.

For women of the early 1930s, a perfume named "Surrender" would likely symbolize a blend of sophistication and boldness. It was a time when women were beginning to assert more independence and express their identities more freely, both in fashion and lifestyle. Wearing a perfume called "Surrender" could be seen as an embrace of their feminine power and an acknowledgment of their desire to be both desired and desirous. It would have appealed to the modern woman seeking to capture a sense of mystery and allure, much like the glamorous film stars they admired.

The word "Surrender" evokes a range of images and emotions, from the romantic to the dramatic. It suggests a scenario where one gives in to irresistible attraction or passion, creating an aura of intimacy and connection. This emotional depth makes "Surrender" a compelling and memorable name for a perfume. It taps into the universal human experience of love and desire, making it timeless and evocative.

As a name for a perfume, "Surrender" stands out for its uniqueness and emotional resonance. It suggests a narrative, inviting the wearer to partake in a story of romance and enchantment. The interpretation of "Surrender" could vary, but it generally implies a willing and passionate embrace of one's desires and emotions. In the context of the 1930s, it would be seen as both a bold statement and a reflection of the evolving attitudes towards love and femininity. Thus, "Surrender" by Parfums Ciro would not only capture the essence of the era but also offer a timeless appeal that resonates with the emotional and sensory experiences of fragrance.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a white floral oriental fragrance for women and was described as a light scent perfect for warmer weather. I used various samples of the parfum to create a scent profile:

• Top notes: lemon, spices, bergamot, lily of the valley, neroli, honeysuckle and violet
• Middle notes: jasmine, tuberose, gardenia, carnation, iris, orange blossom, carnation, rose, heliotrope
• Base notes: vanilla, ambergris, orris, frankincense, sandalwood, tonka bean, labdanum, oakmoss, balsam.

Scent Profile:

The grand ballroom of the Hotel Ambrose was filled with the opulence and elegance of Hollywood's golden age. Crystal chandeliers cast a warm glow over the scene, their light refracting into a thousand tiny rainbows across the polished floors. The air was alive with the sound of a live orchestra, playing a sensuous melody that seemed to wrap around the guests, drawing them into an intimate dance.

As you step through the ornate doors, a burst of lemon and bergamot greets you, their bright, citrusy notes mingling with the faint whisper of exotic spices. The freshness of this initial encounter is like the opening scene of a film, setting the stage for the evening's unfolding drama. The delicate sweetness of lily of the valley and neroli adds a soft, floral undertone, reminiscent of the first blush of attraction. Honeysuckle and violet weave through the air, bringing a hint of wild, untamed nature into the sophistication of the setting.

You glide through the crowd, your senses heightened by the symphony of scents. The heart of the fragrance begins to reveal itself, like the plot of the movie deepening with every scene. Jasmine and tuberose bloom richly, their heady, intoxicating aroma evoking a sense of mystery and allure. Gardenia and carnation add a creamy, spicy warmth, while iris and orange blossom lend a powdery elegance, like the rustling of a silk gown. The lush, velvety rose and heliotrope wrap around you, their sweet, almost vanilla-like scent reminiscent of whispered secrets and stolen glances.

The music swells, and you find yourself drawn into a secluded corner of the ballroom, where the shadows play and the air is thick with anticipation. Here, the base notes of the perfume come into play, grounding the experience in a deeper, more sensual reality. Vanilla and tonka bean add a sweet, comforting richness, while ambergris and labdanum provide a touch of the ocean's mystery and the warmth of sun-kissed skin. Orris root and frankincense bring an earthy, resinous depth, as if grounding you in the present moment while hinting at ancient secrets. The smoky, creamy scent of sandalwood blends with the green, mossy notes of oakmoss, creating a complex backdrop that speaks of both the forest and the temple. Balsam, with its sweet, woody aroma, adds the final touch, like the lingering note of a love song.

As the night progresses, you find yourself surrendering to the impulses of the moment. The taste of champagne lingers on your lips, its effervescence matching the sparkle in your eyes. The smooth, rich voice of a crooner fills the air, his song speaking directly to your heart. You can feel the warmth of the bodies around you, the subtle rustle of silk and satin, the soft murmur of conversations blending into the music. The scent of "Surrender" by Parfums Ciro envelops you, its intricate blend of notes creating a tapestry of emotions and sensations.

In this moment, you are the star of your own Hollywood romance, caught in a dance of seduction and surrender. The perfume is more than a fragrance; it is the essence of the evening, a silent yet potent player in the story of desire and passion. The name "Surrender" perfectly captures the essence of this experience, inviting you to give in to the allure of the night and the promise of what might come next.

Bottles:

The original presentation of Surrender parfum is absolutely stunning. The diamond-shaped bottle made by Baccarat, a renowned French crystal manufacturer known for its craftsmanship and quality, added an extra layer of luxury to the fragrance experience. The faceted design of the bottle would have caught and refracted light beautifully, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal.

A velvet hinged presentation box with a mirror behind the bottle is a thoughtful touch. Not only does it provide a luxurious and protective housing for the perfume, but the mirror also serves to amplify the brilliance of the faceted glass bottle, creating a dazzling effect that further enhances the allure of the fragrance.

It's interesting to note that while the original edition of Surrender parfum featured this exquisite packaging, later editions produced by other companies may have opted for different bottle designs and packaging to cater to varying price points and market preferences. However, the essence of the fragrance likely remained true to its original formulation, ensuring that its timeless appeal endures across different presentations.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Discontinued. It's not uncommon for fragrances, even iconic ones like Surrender by Ciro, to eventually be discontinued due to changes in consumer preferences, evolving trends in the fragrance industry, or business decisions by the brand. However, it's noteworthy that Surrender remained available for nearly four decades since its launch in 1932, which is a testament to its enduring popularity and appeal.

The fact that Surrender was still being sold as late as 1969 indicates that it maintained a loyal following and continued to be cherished by perfume enthusiasts for many years. Its longevity on the market suggests that it left a lasting impression and was considered a classic fragrance even as tastes and trends evolved over time.

While Surrender may no longer be in production today, its legacy lives on through the memories and experiences of those who wore and loved it, as well as through discussions and historical references in the world of perfumery. It remains a part of fragrance history, remembered fondly by those who had the pleasure of experiencing its timeless scent.