The year 1925, when "D’où viens-tu?" by Rosine was launched, falls within the vibrant and transformative period of the Roaring Twenties. This era was characterized by significant social, cultural, and economic changes in the aftermath of World War I. Economically, many Western countries experienced a boom, leading to greater consumerism and the emergence of a modern lifestyle. Culturally, the 1920s saw the rise of the Jazz Age, with jazz music becoming immensely popular, alongside a flourishing of artistic and literary movements such as Art Deco, Surrealism, and Modernism. Additionally, women's roles were changing, with the flapper movement symbolizing their newfound social freedoms, challenging traditional roles and embracing a more liberated and fashionable lifestyle. Technological advancements also made luxury goods more accessible, contributing to the decade’s dynamic nature.
"D’où viens-tu?", pronounced "Doo vyan tew", translates to "Where do you come from?" and is an appropriate name for a perfume for several reasons. Firstly, it evokes a sense of mystery and intrigue, appealing qualities in a fragrance, as scents often carry an air of the exotic and the unknown. This name also fosters an emotional connection, prompting users to think about memories, journeys, or places associated with the scent, thereby enhancing the personal experience of wearing the perfume. Additionally, the romantic and poetic nature of the name, possibly referencing a song, adds a layer of charm and sophistication, making the perfume feel more special and evocative.
Paul Poiret, a renowned fashion designer known for his artistic sensibility, likely chose the name "D’où viens-tu?" for its cultural and personal resonance. Poiret often integrated various art forms, including music, into his work, and using song lyrics for his perfumes aligns with his overall aesthetic vision. In the cultural context of the 1920s, music, especially French chansons, played a significant role in daily life and popular culture, and by referencing a song, Poiret connects the perfume to this cultural zeitgeist. Additionally, naming his perfumes after song lyrics could be seen as Poiret’s personal signature, distinguishing his products in the competitive world of fashion and fragrance.
