Requête by Worth, launched in 1944, emerges as a fragrance rich in both emotional and historical significance. The name "Requête" is French, translating to "request" or "appeal" in English. It evokes the sense of a plea, a tender yet urgent call—perhaps for love, hope, or connection during a time of uncertainty. The word "Requête" carries a gentle longing, an expression of something deeply desired but not yet attained. In the context of the fragrance, the name suggests a scent that delicately invites, yet doesn't overwhelm, a soft request for attention, much like the allure of a garden gradually warming under the early morning sun.
This idea of gentle appeal translates beautifully into the fragrance’s olfactory composition. Classified as a light green floral bouquet, Requête captures the essence of a June garden as it stirs to life. The scent evokes images of dewy grass and flowers in bloom, touched by the warmth of the morning sun. As the fragrance develops, the sensual notes of rose and jasmine mingle with the fresh greenery, bringing to mind a serene, intimate setting where nature's beauty is celebrated. The musky base adds depth, anchoring the delicate florals and giving them a soft, sensual finish. In scent, "Requête" would be interpreted as both inviting and romantic, blending youthful freshness with a quiet elegance.
When Requête was introduced in the 1940s, it was a time of profound emotional upheaval. The world was engulfed in war, and women were living with the constant anxiety of having loved ones fighting overseas. In such a context, a perfume named "Requête" would resonate deeply. For many women, it would symbolize the silent prayers and appeals for the safety and return of those they loved, an olfactory echo of the letters they sent across borders and battlefields. In an era marked by separation and sacrifice, the fragrance could serve as a quiet comfort, a gentle expression of hope, desire, and personal connection.
A daytime perfume like Requête was suggested for a young woman, its lightness reflecting the innocence and optimism of youth even in dark times. Women of the time would likely have seen this fragrance as a representation of resilience and grace under pressure. The scent’s floral and green notes were a reminder of nature’s ability to renew and bloom again, even after hardship—symbolizing, perhaps, their own strength and perseverance. The musky undertone, though subtle, hinted at the romantic undertones of waiting, yearning, and, ultimately, the possibility of reunion.
