Isn't February just the perfect time to dive into a discussion about my all-time favorite color? Pink, often hailed as the hue of love, has a fascinating history full of transformations. But it wasn't always synonymous with affection and passion.
A Colorful History
Let's journey back in time to the mid-1700s when pink first graced the Western world as a symbol of opulence and sophistication. European aristocrats, regardless of gender, flaunted delicate, powdery shades of pink in their fashion choices. In fact, Madame de Pompadour, Louis XV's chief mistress, adored this color so much that it inspired the naming of a delicate shade called Rose Pompadour by the renowned French porcelain manufacturer, Sèvres, in 1757.
Now, here's a surprising twist. Pink wasn't initially restricted to being a "girls'" color. In those days, infants of all genders were often swathed in pristine white attire. Pink was actually viewed as a paler iteration of red, carrying undertones of masculinity and military spirit. The transition to associating pink with women and femininity didn't occur until the mid-19th century, as men increasingly favored darker, somber tones.
It was during this era that pink also acquired its first flirtations with eroticism. This alluring color began hinting at nudity, finding its way into lingerie and becoming a recurring theme in literature and art, often linked to the allure of the female form.
As the 20th century arrived, pink went through a captivating transformation. The emergence of industrialization and mass production brought forth affordable dyes like magenta, resulting in vibrant, attention-grabbing shades of pink. Pink transitioned from a symbol of luxury to one embraced by the working class, and its once-sophisticated image shifted towards vulgarity. But the 60s brought about a change in perception. Pink regained its allure, with iconic figures like Jackie Kennedy and Marilyn Monroe using it as a symbol of luxury. In more recent decades, pop culture, celebrities, and hip-hop have all embraced the color, challenging the notion that pink is solely for women. Barbie, too, played a significant role in bringing pink back to the mainstream.
Pink is currently experiencing a generational shift. It's not just a color for lipstick but a hue that's redefining fashion, culture, and even gender norms. Society is moving beyond the idea of pink as merely a childish or overly sexualized shade. There's a growing recognition that pink can be both pretty and powerful, feminine and feminist. Men are once again embracing it, as they did in the 18th century. We're reshaping the way we see pink.
So, as we celebrate Valentine's Day, remember that Madame Gabriela's pink, NEW YORK AT 1PM, was created not just for a single month of love but for year-round vibrancy. It's a color that has transcended time and stereotypes, embodying the essence of our ever-evolving world.
With love dipped in shades of pink,
Gabriela 💋