Di Borghese by Princess Marcella Borghese c1978

Launched in 1978, Di Borghese by Princess Marcella Borghese was more than just a fragrance—it was an embodiment of Italian aristocratic refinement and timeless sophistication. The name itself, "Di Borghese," is deeply rooted in legacy and prestige. The phrase is Italian, pronounced dee bor-GAY-zeh, and translates to "of Borghese" or "belonging to Borghese." This choice of name directly tied the fragrance to Princess Marcella Borghese, the noblewoman who founded the Borghese cosmetics and fragrance brand.

Princess Marcella Borghese was a member of the illustrious Borghese family, a lineage dating back to the 16th century, known for its deep cultural and artistic contributions to Italy. A symbol of grace, sophistication, and luxury, the princess became a beauty entrepreneur, collaborating with Revlon to develop high-end skincare and cosmetics. Her vision was to translate the elegance of Italian nobility into accessible beauty rituals, and her fragrance creations were no exception.

Ecco by Princess Marcella Borghese c1960

Ecco by Princess Marcella Borghese was launched in 1960, a time when elegance, sophistication, and timeless femininity were at the heart of fashion and beauty. Advertised as a fragrance "for the eternal woman," Ecco was a reflection of grace, confidence, and effortless allure—qualities deeply associated with the Borghese name. Princess Marcella Borghese, a member of the prestigious Italian noble family, was known for her refined taste and passion for beauty. She built a cosmetics empire that fused Italian luxury with modern innovation, and her fragrances captured the essence of classic femininity while remaining contemporary and relevant to the era.

The name Ecco is Italian, pronounced "EH-koh", meaning "Here it is" or "Behold"—a declaration of presence, a moment of revelation. It evokes images of grandeur, poise, and arrival, as if announcing an elegant woman stepping into a room, instantly captivating those around her. The word suggests a flourish, an exclamation of beauty and confidence, making it a fitting choice for a fragrance designed for the woman who leaves a lasting impression.

The year 1960 marked the beginning of a transformative decade, bridging the glamorous sophistication of the 1950s with the youthful rebellion of the mid-to-late 1960s. This was a period known as the Jet Age, where global travel and cultural exchange were reshaping fashion and beauty. Women were still drawn to the polished refinement of the past, with tailored silhouettes, pearls, and coiffed hairstyles, but there was also an increasing shift towards freedom, lightness, and a fresh modernity. Perfumery reflected this transition—while the heady, opulent florals of the 1950s still dominated, new trends introduced lighter, airy compositions with aldehydic brightness and green, naturalistic notes, mirroring the growing appreciation for fresh, effortless beauty.

Fiamma by Princess Marcella Borghese c1965

Fiamma by Princess Marcella Borghese, launched in 1965, emerged at a time when the world was experiencing profound cultural shifts. The early 1960s were marked by the rise of youth culture, an era defined by bold new ideas in fashion, art, and music. The 1960s saw a departure from the formality of the previous decade, embracing a sense of freedom and exploration. As women moved away from the more conservative styles of the 1950s, fashion became more experimental, with the mod look and youthful energy dominating the scene. In the fragrance world, oriental and floral compositions were gaining popularity, reflecting the era's fascination with exoticism, sensuality, and the allure of the East.

Princess Marcella Borghese, a member of the Italian aristocracy, was no stranger to luxury and elegance, and her perfume collections were a testament to her refined taste. Her decision to name this fragrance "Fiamma" (Italian for "flame") was a perfect reflection of the perfume’s character. Pronounced "fee-AH-ma", the word evokes images of warmth, passion, and intensity—qualities that mirror the power of fire itself. The name conjures the image of something vibrant, flickering, and alive, embodying a fierce sensuality. The emotional connotation of “Fiamma” calls to mind something dynamic and forceful, yet also beautiful in its evanescence. It would resonate with women who desired a fragrance as captivating and multifaceted as they were, one that burned with intensity but was always graceful.

In Italian, the word Fiamma carries a figurative meaning beyond its literal translation of "flame" or "blaze." It also refers to a "lover" or "mistress," evoking the intense and passionate nature of a romantic relationship. This dual meaning parallels the English expression "old flame," which refers to a past lover who still stirs feelings of warmth and nostalgia. In this context, Fiamma becomes a metaphor for a love that burns with fervor, perhaps fleeting but unforgettable, embodying both the excitement and the lingering memory of an intense, fiery romance. This emotional depth adds a layer of complexity to the fragrance, making it not just a scent but a symbol of passionate encounters and unforgettable connections.

Andiamo by Princess Marcella Borghese c1970

Andiamo by Princess Marcella Borghese was launched in 1970, a time of cultural transformation and artistic exploration. The name Andiamo is Italian, meaning "Let's go" or "Come on," pronounced "ahn-dee-AH-mo". It carries a sense of movement, excitement, and invitation, evoking images of elegant jet-setters, spontaneous adventures, and a confident embrace of life's pleasures. The choice of this name reflects a spirit of independence and glamour—qualities that aligned well with both the era’s shifting societal norms and the essence of Borghese’s brand.

Princess Marcella Borghese was an Italian aristocrat with a deep appreciation for beauty, luxury, and refinement. A member of one of Italy’s most historic noble families, she became a leading figure in the world of cosmetics and fragrance. Collaborating with Charles Revson of Revlon in the 1950s, she launched the Borghese beauty brand, bringing a distinctly European sophistication to American consumers. Her products, including perfumes, skincare, and cosmetics, embodied a blend of classical elegance and modern innovation, drawing inspiration from Italian art, nature, and the glamorous lifestyle of Rome’s elite.

The choice of Andiamo as the perfume’s name was a bold and evocative statement. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, women were embracing greater freedom, confidence, and individuality. The feminist movement was gaining momentum, and women were redefining their roles in society—entering the workforce in greater numbers, traveling independently, and expressing themselves through fashion and fragrance. Andiamo captured this spirit of movement and empowerment, suggesting an invitation to adventure, romance, and self-discovery. It reflected a woman who was both sophisticated and dynamic, unafraid to take the lead in her own life.

Il Bacio by Princess Marcella Borghese c1993

Launched in 1993, Il Bacio—pronounced "eel bachee-o", and meaning "The Kiss" in Italian—embodies the sensuality and passion of its name. Created by Givaudan Roure, this fragrance was a bold yet elegant expression of the era, blending fruity florals with soft woody notes to create an unforgettable olfactory experience. The name itself evokes an intimate moment, a lingering embrace captured in scent, making Il Bacio a fitting tribute to romance and femininity.

Princess Marcella Borghese, a noblewoman of Italian descent, was renowned for her sophisticated taste and dedication to beauty. As a member of the illustrious Borghese family, her name carried connotations of aristocracy, refinement, and timeless elegance. While her earlier fragrance Di Borghese paid homage to her lineage, Il Bacio took a more personal approach, celebrating emotion, passion, and human connection rather than heritage alone. The phrase Il Bacio rolls off the tongue with a musical quality, conjuring visions of moonlit Italian villas, whispered confessions, and the fleeting, electrifying moment before a kiss.