Launched in 1926, Princess Norina by Prince Matchabelli is one of the earliest and most personal creations from the house, a perfume born not just of artistry but of devotion. Named in honor of the prince’s wife, Eleanora "Norina" Erna Cecilia Gilli—an Italian actress known on stage as Maria Carmi—the fragrance was a romantic tribute. The name "Princess Norina" blends her nickname, Norina, with the noble title bestowed upon her through marriage. It’s pronounced PRIN-sess Nor-EE-nah. Though not a princess by birth, she was elevated through love and title—an actress turned royal consort—and the perfume reflects that transformation: theatrical, elegant, and full of character.
The name evokes an enchanting mixture of romantic fantasy and real-life nobility. “Princess” carries all the imagery of a storybook heroine—grace, mystery, and the allure of status—while “Norina," meaning "little Eleanora," softens the grandeur with an intimate, personal touch. Together, they conjure the image of a woman who is both adored and admired—someone with presence, depth, and a touch of dramatic flair. The emotions the name stirs are tender yet regal: a sense of intimacy wrapped in luxury, much like the woman it was meant to honor.
The perfume was introduced during the heart of the Roaring Twenties, an era known for its dynamic cultural shifts, artistic innovation, and liberation of women's roles in society. Flapper fashion was at its peak—women wore shorter skirts, bobbed their hair, and stepped into new freedoms with both boldness and style. Perfumes of the time began to reflect this new confidence. While light floral eaux de cologne were still popular, there was a growing appetite for deeper, spicier, more expressive compositions. Perfumery was becoming less about freshness and more about personality.
