Gigolo by Germaine Monteil, launched in 1951, is a perfume name that sparks curiosity and intrigue. The word "Gigolo" comes from the Italian and French languages, where it refers to a young man who is financially supported by an older woman in exchange for companionship, often with romantic or sexual connotations. The term gained a certain level of notoriety, suggesting a figure who is charming, seductive, and possibly a little dangerous. By choosing such a provocative name, Monteil created a fragrance that would evoke boldness and mystery—qualities that resonated with women seeking to express a more daring and confident side of their personalities.
American women in the early 1950s would have understood the meaning of the word "gigolo," especially as it had already entered popular culture through films and literature. The name "Gigolo" would likely evoke images of sophisticated men, nightlife, and a sense of alluring danger. It conjures emotions of glamour, seduction, and excitement, making it an unusual yet compelling choice for a women's fragrance. As a name for a perfume, Gigolo suggests a scent that is intoxicating and captivating, one that lingers like the memory of a forbidden romance.
In scent, "Gigolo" could be interpreted as a blend of charm and intrigue, balancing sweetness with an edge of the unexpected. Classified as a sweet, green floral fougère fragrance, this composition reflects the tension between refinement and sensuality. The green notes suggest freshness and elegance, while the sweet undertones evoke femininity and warmth. The fougère base, typically associated with masculine fragrances, introduces an element of surprise, adding depth and complexity to the scent—just as the name itself plays with contrasting ideas of femininity and seduction.
