Ecco by Princess Marcella Borghese, launched in 1960, is a fragrance that captures both the fresh optimism of a new decade and the timeless elegance of Italian style. The name Ecco (pronounced EH-koh) is an Italian word that translates loosely as “Here it is!” or “Behold!” It’s an exclamation used to draw attention—sometimes to something long-awaited or suddenly revealed. It suggests a flourish, an unveiling, or even a revelation. In the context of a perfume, it feels like a dramatic introduction: Here I am!, a scent arriving with presence and grace. Choosing a name like Ecco reflects not only the confident tone of the perfume itself but also Princess Marcella Borghese’s own identity—rooted in Roman nobility, Italian heritage, and a flair for elegance that was both natural and cultivated.
The year 1960 marked the dawn of a new era. The postwar gloom had fully lifted, and the world—especially in Europe and America—was entering a period of renewed prosperity, cultural expansion, and visual sophistication. Italy, in particular, was experiencing La Dolce Vita, a cultural renaissance celebrated in film, fashion, and style. Fellini’s famous film of the same name was released that year, showcasing Rome as a playground for beauty, drama, and indulgence. The fashion world had turned its eyes toward Italian designers, while American women looked to Europe for beauty cues. Princess Borghese, a Roman aristocrat who partnered with Revlon to launch her luxury cosmetics and fragrance brand, was perfectly positioned to embody this moment—blending regal old-world charm with sleek modern glamour.
In this vibrant context, Ecco would have appealed to women seeking something both classic and new. Classified as an aldehydic floral, the fragrance would have felt modern and radiant, yet comfortably feminine. Aldehydes lend an airy, sparkling texture—soapy and clean, yet abstract—while the heart of jasmine and rose roots the fragrance in timeless beauty. What sets Ecco apart, however, is the inclusion of fresh herbs and dewy spring flowers, creating a sunlit impression that feels less powdered and more alive. This was not a perfume that stayed in the parlor—it stepped into the garden. It offered women a fragrant echo of freedom, freshness, and elegance without veering into sharp modernism or overt sensuality.
