Le Chick Chick by Vigny c1923

The perfume "Le Chick-Chick" by Vigny was launched in 1923, a period marked by a post-World War I atmosphere of liberation and exuberance. The 1920s, often referred to as the Roaring Twenties, was a decade characterized by a break from tradition, where whimsy and modernity began to infiltrate various aspects of culture, including fashion and perfume presentation. This era celebrated newfound freedoms, reflected in the flapper movement, jazz music, and a general sense of hedonism and innovation. Perfume presentations of the time often embraced fanciful and imaginative designs, aligning with the playful and liberated spirit of the age.

The words "chic," "chick," and "chi-chi" each carry distinct connotations yet share a thematic link of elegance and stylishness. "Chic" is a French word that denotes stylishness and sophistication, embodying an effortless elegance. "Chick," in English, is a colloquial term that refers to a young woman and can imply a sense of modernity and trendiness. "Chi-chi" suggests something overly elaborate or showily stylish, often with a touch of pretentiousness. These words collectively evoke images of fashion-forward, stylish, and somewhat playful sophistication.

"Le Chick-Chick" as a name cleverly plays on these connotations. "Le," the French definite article, adds an air of sophistication and refinement. The repetition in "Chick-Chick" brings a playful and memorable quality to the name, while also hinting at modernity and trendiness. Vigny likely chose this name to appeal to the modern woman of the 1920s, who was embracing her independence and keen on expressing her personality through fashion and fragrance.

"Le Chick-Chick" would make a good name for a perfume because it is catchy, whimsical, and suggests a blend of sophistication and playfulness. The name encapsulates the spirit of the 1920s woman—confident, fashionable, and unafraid to stand out. Women of the time would likely relate to a perfume called "Le Chick-Chick" as it reflects their own desires for elegance, modernity, and a touch of whimsy.

The response to this perfume would likely be positive, with women appreciating its alignment with the contemporary cultural ethos. The name evokes images of a stylish, vibrant lifestyle, filled with parties, jazz clubs, and fashionable gatherings. Emotions of joy, confidence, and a sense of belonging to the modern world would be stirred by this playful yet chic name.

"Le Chick-Chick" would indeed be a unique name for a perfume, standing out in a market where many perfumes might have more traditional or floral names. The interpretation of "Le Chick-Chick" would be one of intrigue and charm, capturing the essence of a dynamic and stylish era. The name is a perfect blend of French elegance and modern playfulness, making it an appealing choice for the 1920s woman who wants to make a statement with her fragrance.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It was classified as a floral fragrance for women.

Bottles:

One of the more whimsical perfume bottles used by Vigny was the delightful creation by Baccarat for "Le Chick-Chick," which was originally crafted for the Easter holiday. This enchanting crystal bottle featured gilded wings that elegantly formed the body of a chick. Adding to its charm, the bottle boasted an oversized gilded brass cap that represented the chick’s head, complete with a partially open beak and eyes askew, giving it a playful and endearing appearance. Inside, the bottle was equipped with a small glass inner stopper to preserve the fragrance.

These bottles were available in three distinct sizes, catering to various preferences. The largest stood at an impressive 5 3/8 inches tall, followed by a medium size of 3 3/8 inches, and the smallest, a petite 2 7/8 inches tall. Designed by Michel de Brunhoff, each bottle was meticulously crafted and acid-stamped with "Made in France" on the base, ensuring its authenticity and origin.

Adding to their allure, the bottles were housed in exquisite presentation boxes designed by Pierre Mourgue. The larger sizes, 5 3/8 inches and 3 3/8 inches, were nestled in boxes covered with floral chintz fabric, enhancing their elegance. The smallest size, at 2 7/8 inches, came in chintz floral papered boxes, maintaining the charm and whimsical nature of the collection. These thoughtful design choices made "Le Chick-Chick" not only a fragrance but also a delightful keepsake, perfect for the Easter celebration. In the photos below, you can see how the gilding can wear off and expose the brass beneath.

Fate of the Fragrance:

Le Chick Chick was discontinued in 1936. Today, bottles of "Le Chick-Chick" remain highly coveted by collectors of antique perfume bottles. These rare finds, with their unique and whimsical design, embody the essence of 1920s sophistication and playfulness. While they do occasionally surface for sale, they are less common compared to other Vigny creations, such as the popular "grenade" type bottles. The scarcity of "Le Chick-Chick" bottles enhances their desirability, making them prized possessions for collectors. If you happen to come across one of these exquisite bottles, seize the opportunity to add this charming piece of history to your collection. Its rarity and historical significance make it a standout artifact that captures the whimsical elegance of a bygone era.