Symbole by Dana, launched in 1941, carried with it a name that was both evocative and meaningful. The word Symbole is the French term for "symbol," pronounced seem-BOH-luh", and it immediately conjures ideas of representation, significance, and deeper meaning. A symbol is something that stands for or represents something else—often abstract and imbued with layers of meaning. By naming the perfume Symbole, Dana infused the fragrance with an aura of mystery and importance, positioning it as not just a scent, but a personal emblem. The word evokes a sense of individuality, as if the perfume would become a signature, a representation of one’s unique identity or femininity. It suggests an invisible yet powerful presence—one that lingers and defines the wearer, much like a symbol does in art, language, or culture.
The perfume's press materials further deepen this sense of symbolism, describing Symbole as “an invisible garden of flowers” that surrounds the wearer with “a tender, fresh and refined note.” This description suggests a scent that is ethereal, delicate, and fresh, yet persistent—just like a symbol that quietly holds significance and yet has a lasting impact. The notion that the fragrance “will soon become your own symbol” evokes a sense of personal connection, as if the perfume will come to define the wearer’s essence, capturing the very spirit of refined femininity. The press materials also claim that Symbole will “bring out the exquisite femininity of all Eves,” tying the fragrance to both timeless beauty and the biblical figure of Eve, symbolizing the origin of all women and the universal qualities of femininity.
Launched in 1941, Symbole arrived at a time when the world was in the midst of World War II. The early 1940s were marked by a sense of tension and uncertainty, but also resilience and elegance. In fashion, the period was defined by practicality due to wartime rationing, but there was still a desire for refinement and grace. Women embraced streamlined, practical styles, such as suits with sharp lines and feminine details. Even with limited resources, women continued to invest in their appearance, using accessories, like perfume, to create a sense of normalcy and beauty in an otherwise chaotic world. A fragrance named Symbole would have appealed to women during this time as an embodiment of personal strength and identity. It offered not just an escape into a fragrant garden of flowers but a symbol of inner grace and resilience—qualities that women of the time could deeply relate to.
