Graffiti by Roberto Capucci, launched in 1963, captures a vibrant spirit, reflecting the dynamic nature of contemporary art and fashion. The name “Graffiti,” derived from the Italian word for "scratched" or "scribbled," evokes the raw creativity and expressive freedom of urban street art. Pronounced as "grah-FEE-tee," the term conjures vivid images of colorful murals splashed across city walls, often representing rebellion, cultural commentary, and a youthful exuberance. This bold imagery resonates with a sense of liberation and artistry, appealing to women in the 1960s who were increasingly embracing their individuality and seeking to express themselves in fresh, daring ways.
In an era marked by significant social and cultural upheaval, women were beginning to break free from traditional constraints and assert their identities. The name "Graffiti" encapsulates this spirit of rebellion and self-expression, aligning perfectly with the burgeoning youth culture and the rise of the feminist movement. Women of the time may have related to a perfume named "Graffiti" as a declaration of their autonomy—a scent that was as fearless and unique as they were. It symbolized a departure from convention, embracing a world where individuality was celebrated, and personal expression was paramount.
The fragrance itself, created by the talented perfumers at Roure, is classified as a chypre fragrance for women, characterized by its complex blend of notes that evoke the warmth and ardor of Italy. Described as "airy, green, and fresh," Graffiti opens with a burst of invigorating greenery, reminiscent of a sun-drenched garden. The inclusion of thyme hints at the herbaceous charm of the Mediterranean landscape, while jasmine and rose weave a floral tapestry that adds a touch of romance and elegance. Hyacinth and ylang-ylang introduce playful and exotic nuances, inviting the wearer into a lush, fragrant world.
As the fragrance develops, the heart reveals its complexity—a captivating interplay of moss and warm woods that anchors the scent in a rich, earthy embrace. The depth of amber lends a warm glow to the composition, creating an inviting and sensual aura. This combination of freshness and warmth reflects the duality of urban life in the 1960s, where the vibrancy of city streets met the natural beauty of the Italian landscape.
When Graffiti was launched, the fragrance market was already seeing a shift towards more avant-garde compositions. While many perfumes of the era emphasized overtly floral or sweet notes, Graffiti stood out for its unique combination of airy, green elements paired with rich, woody undertones. This innovative approach positioned it as a bold statement in the perfume industry, aligning with the artistic movements of the time that sought to challenge the status quo.
In essence, Graffiti embodies the spirit of the 1960s—an era of exploration, creativity, and empowerment. The fragrance invites women to embrace their individuality, celebrating the beauty of self-expression through scent. Just as graffiti artists transformed urban spaces into vibrant canvases, so too does this fragrance invite its wearer to leave an indelible mark on the world, celebrating the artistry of life itself.
Combat, 1963:
"Simultaneously debuting two fragrances, Capucci has unveiled Graffiti and Parce Que. The former captures the vibrant warmth of Italy, while the latter offers the refreshing essence of a lush grove, invigorating like the earthy aroma of rain-soaked soil after a storm."
Vogue, 1969:
"Sophisticated, GRAFFITI endures, constantly evoking "the way it was" ... or the way you want it to be. GRAFFITI by Roberto Capucci. Only at the finest perfume counters. Perfume $ 30 to $ 5. Made, bottled, packaged and sealed in France. PARFUMS CAPUCCI PARIS. Available only at select stores "
Fragrance Composition:
So what does it smell like? It is classified as a chypre fragrance for women. Described as "airy, green and fresh." A provocative scent combining the essence of moss, jasmine, rose, hyacinth, ylang ylang, thyme against warm woods and amber.
- Top notes: green notes, aldehydes, green tea, wild strawberry, papaya, apple, melon, pineapple
- Middle notes: nutmeg, rose, violet, jasmine, tuberose, ylang ylang, hyacinth
- Base notes: patchouli, oakmoss, thyme, sandalwood, amber
Scent Profile:
Graffiti by Roberto Capucci unfolds like a vibrant tapestry of nature, inviting you to experience each ingredient as if you were walking through a sun-drenched Italian garden. At the very beginning, the top notes present an exhilarating burst of green notes, fresh and invigorating, like the first breath of spring air after a long winter. The aldehydes add an effervescent quality, sparkling in the sunlight.
As you delve deeper, you encounter the sweetness of wild strawberry, its ripe juiciness tantalizing your senses, followed by the tropical allure of papaya, which exudes a lush, creamy aroma that transports you to sunlit shores. The crispness of apple and the refreshing juiciness of melon create a playful harmony, while pineapple adds a tantalizing zest, evoking images of vibrant fruit markets and leisurely afternoons spent savoring the tastes of summer.
As the fragrance evolves, the middle notes emerge, revealing a rich bouquet of florals. The warmth of nutmeg interlaces with the classic elegance of rose, whose velvety petals envelop you in a timeless romance. The soft, powdery essence of violet gently whispers in the background, harmonizing beautifully with the luxurious bloom of jasmine, which unfurls its intoxicating aroma, reminiscent of moonlit gardens.
Tuberose joins the chorus, its heady, creamy richness enveloping your senses, while the exotic ylang ylang adds a tropical allure, transporting you to far-off lands. Hyacinth weaves through the heart, lending a fresh, green character that adds complexity to the floral medley, creating a scent that feels both airy and lush.
As Graffiti settles into its final moments, the base notes reveal a warm and earthy embrace. The depth of patchouli provides a grounding anchor, its rich, woody aroma evoking the essence of forest floors layered with fallen leaves. Oakmoss enhances this earthiness, offering a subtle dampness that suggests the embrace of nature after a rain.
Thyme introduces an herbal brightness, adding a hint of freshness that revitalizes the composition. The smooth sandalwood adds a creamy warmth, softening the edges of the fragrance, while amber infuses a golden glow, wrapping the scent in a luxurious, sensual finish. Together, these elements create a perfume that is both provocative and sophisticated, capturing the essence of nature's beauty in a way that is uniquely enchanting.
Bottles:
The bottle was designed by sculptor Serge Mansau in 1963 and produced in France by Pochet et du Courval.
Fate of the Fragrance:
Discontinued, date unknown. Still sold in 1981.
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