In 1883, Guerlain unveiled Rita, a fragrance named in honor of Margherita “Rita” of Savoy, the Queen consort of Italy during the reign of her husband, Umberto I. Guerlain, known for crafting bespoke perfumes for the elite and aristocratic, chose this name to reflect his continued tradition of personalizing scents for royalty. The name "Rita" is a diminutive of "Margarita," which itself derives from the Latin "Margaret," meaning "child of light." This choice was more than a nod to the Queen’s name—it evoked a sense of elegance and refinement, resonating with the qualities of her character and stature.
The name "Rita" conjures images of simplicity and grace, embodying a timeless charm that connects to the classical roots of Margaret. It evokes feelings of warmth and luminosity, aligning with the light and delicate nuances expected in a fragrance crafted for a queen. In scent, the queen was partial to the scent of sweet violets, so Rita would likely be interpreted as a sophisticated blend, combining understated elegance with a touch of opulence to reflect the royal persona it was meant to honor.
For women of the late 19th century, a perfume named Rita would have symbolized both exclusivity and refinement. It represented not just a luxurious product, but also an intimate connection to the Queen herself, embodying the height of fashionable elegance and sophistication. During this period, Guerlain's dedication to creating personalized fragrances for heads of state and nobility was a testament to his esteemed position in the world of perfumery.
