Elan by Coty c1968

In 1968, amidst the fervor of women's liberation and the rise of feminism, Coty debuted its crowning achievement in perfumery: Elan. Seven years of dedicated artistry culminated in this olfactory masterpiece, a scent meticulously crafted as a homage to the progressive spirit of American women.

Elan emerged as more than just a fragrance; it was a statement, a celebration of the evolving role of women in society. Its sophisticated blend of scents captured the essence of the era, echoing the dynamism and empowerment that characterized the late sixties.

As cultural paradigms shifted and the landscape of femininity evolved, Elan stood as a beacon of vitality and elegance, transcending mere fragrance to become an enduring symbol of style and refinement for generations to come.

Fragrance Composition:

Notes at a glance:

So what did it smell like? It is described as a floral chypre fragrance for women.

• Top notes: aldehydes, bergamot, green notes
• Middle notes: lily of the valley, carnation, jasmine, rose attar, orris, gardenia, violet
• Base notes: Madagascar vanilla, mahogany, oakmoss, cedar, Ethiopian civet, labdanum, patchouli, Venezuelan tonka bean, Ceylon sandalwood, ambergris, Indian musk

Scent Profile:

As you inhale the scent of Elan, you're transported to the vibrant streets of 1960s America, where the air is filled with the essence of change and possibility.

The top notes dance on your senses, tingling with the crisp freshness of aldehydes, reminiscent of the newfound clarity and empowerment of women stepping into their own. Bergamot adds a touch of citrusy brightness, while green notes evoke the lush, rebellious spirit of the era's counterculture movements, a nod to the free-spirited hippies and their love for nature and freedom.

As the fragrance settles, the heart notes unfurl like a bouquet of flowers, each bloom telling a story of femininity in its myriad forms. Lily of the valley whispers of innocence and purity, while carnation and jasmine exude a sensual allure, mirroring the confidence and liberation of the modern woman. Rose attar and violet add a romantic charm, while orris and gardenia lend a sophisticated elegance, capturing the multifaceted nature of femininity in a time of change.

Finally, as the scent lingers on your skin, the base notes anchor you in a sense of grounded power and strength. Madagascar vanilla and Venezuelan tonka bean offer a hint of sweetness, a reminder of the joy and pleasure found in embracing one's desires. Mahogany and cedar evoke the sturdy foundations of progress and ambition, reflecting the rising tide of career-driven women breaking through glass ceilings. Oakmoss and patchouli exude a sense of earthy wisdom, while Ceylon sandalwood and ambergris add a touch of exotic mystique, symbolizing the global interconnectedness of the feminist movement. Ethiopian civet, labdanum, and Indian musk infuse the fragrance with a primal sensuality, a celebration of feminine power and allure in all its forms.

In Elan, each ingredient becomes a thread in the rich tapestry of 1960s America, weaving together the stories of feminism, hippies, women's liberation, career women, and power into a scent that is at once timeless and evocative of its era.

Ebony, 1971:

"COTY. It would take the average man a thousand days and nights to describe the woman he loves. Coty has done it in one fluid ounce. Elan perfume."

 

Bottle:

When introduced, Elan by Coty epitomized elegance with its exquisite packaging designed by the renowned Dominick Sariga. The perfume was housed in a striking combination of clear and frosted glass, encased in a sleek bottle with a plastic cap. The sophisticated simplicity of the design reflected the refined sensibilities of the era.

Adding to its allure, the packaging was accentuated with boxes and cartons adorned in a regal shade of blue, presenting a visual harmony that elevated the entire experience of owning and using Elan.

For those seeking an extra touch of glamour, in 1971, the line also featured a luxurious tortoise shell-style spray option, providing a lavish alternative for those who desired a statement piece to adorn their vanity.

With its attention to detail and commitment to elegance in both scent and presentation, Elan by Coty embodied the essence of sophistication, making it a timeless treasure for discerning women everywhere.

Product Line:

Back in 1974, when Elan by Coty was making waves in the fragrance world, its original prices were a testament to its accessibility and allure.

For those seeking a luxurious dusting experience, the 4 oz Dusting Powder was a steal at $3.50. This delicately scented powder promised a touch of elegance and refinement, perfect for the modern woman on the go.

The Parfum de Toilette, available in a sleek 1.5 oz bottle, also retailed at $3.50, offering a more concentrated fragrance experience without breaking the bank.

For those who wanted to indulge in the pure essence of Elan, the Perfume came in two sizes: 0.25 oz for $10.00 and 0.5 oz for $17.50. These tiny vials packed a punch, allowing wearers to envelop themselves in the intoxicating scent of Elan throughout the day.

The Spray Mist, offered in a convenient 1.4 oz bottle, was another budget-friendly option at $3.50, providing a refreshing burst of fragrance whenever and wherever it was needed.

And for a touch of luxury after a relaxing bath, the Talc, available in a generous 3.7 oz container, was priced at just $2.00, making it an affordable indulgence for anyone wanting to add a hint of Elan's scent to their daily routine.

With its range of products at such accessible prices, Elan by Coty ensured that women of all walks of life could embrace the essence of femininity, empowerment, and elegance that it represented.

Fate of the Fragrance:

While the exact date of its discontinuation remains a mystery, the legacy of Elan by Coty lives on through the vintage bottles that still grace online marketplaces. Though no longer readily available on store shelves, these relics of a bygone era continue to captivate fragrance enthusiasts and collectors alike, offering a tantalizing glimpse into the glamour and elegance of yesteryear.

For those fortunate enough to acquire a vintage bottle of Elan, it's not just a fragrance—it's a piece of history, a tangible reminder of an era defined by its spirit of liberation and empowerment. Each bottle tells a story, evoking memories of a time when feminism, hippies, and women's liberation were at the forefront of societal consciousness.

As these rare treasures find new homes in the hands of appreciative connoisseurs, they serve as a testament to the enduring allure and timeless appeal of Elan by Coty, ensuring that its legacy will continue to enchant and inspire for generations to come.