Fleur Du Lac by Coty was originally the name of a unique and artistic perfume presentation introduced in 1942. The name translates to "flower of the lake" in French, fitting the design which featured lacquered lotus blossoms and leaves on a colored mirror base. This decorative base held a flacon of perfume with a distinctive "briar" stopper. The presentation was both visually striking and elegant, embodying the aesthetic sensibilities of the era.
The perfume was available in six different fragrances, showcasing Coty's range and expertise in creating captivating scents. These included:
- L'Origan - A warm, spicy floral scent, often considered one of Coty's most famous fragrances.
- L'Aimant - A floral aldehyde fragrance, reminiscent of Chanel No. 5, and known for its romantic and sophisticated character.
- Emeraude - An oriental fragrance with a rich, ambery base, highlighted by notes of citrus, jasmine, and vanilla.
- Paris - A floral scent capturing the elegance and charm associated with the city of Paris.
- Muguet du Bois - A fresh, green lily-of-the-valley fragrance, celebrating the delicate and pure scent of this spring flower.
- Styx or Chypre - While it is unclear whether the sixth fragrance was Styx or Chypre, both are notable in Coty's lineup. Styx is a spicy, woody scent with a mysterious allure, and Chypre is a classic blend featuring citrus, labdanum, patchouli, and moss, creating a rich and complex aroma.
This presentation not only highlighted Coty's innovative approach to fragrance design but also reflected the luxurious and artistic packaging that was popular during that period.
Fleur du Lac Eau de Toilette:
Introduced in the 1990s, Fleur du Lac Eau de Toilette was a brief but notable addition to the fragrance market. Although discontinued not long after its release, it can occasionally be found online as old stock. This fragrance was designed as a soft floral scent for women, characterized by its delicate blend of floral notes over a comforting base of vanilla.
Fragrance Profile:
Top and Middle Notes: A refreshing yet sweet blend of floral notes, which provided a bright and invigorating opening. These floral notes included a variety of sweet flowers, likely encompassing classics such as rose, jasmine, and lily. Base Notes: A rich, warm foundation of vanilla and gourmet notes, creating a cozy, sensual finish. This combination resulted in a smooth transition from the fresh and bright florals to a warm, powdery base.
Ingredients:
Octyl Methoxycinnamate: Commonly found in sunscreens and cosmetics, this ingredient acts as a UVB filter, protecting against UV radiation. It also stabilizes the fragrance but has been associated with potential health risks, leading to its ban in European cosmetics.
Benzophenone-3: An antioxidant that improves the stability of fragrances and protects against UV exposure. It has a faint, sweet scent with fruity and floral nuances, adding to the overall character of the fragrance. Like octyl methoxycinnamate, it is banned for cosmetic use in Europe due to health concerns.
Castor Oil: Included for its emollient properties, it can also act as a skin allergen for some individuals.
The top and middle notes offer a refreshing and sweet floral bouquet that captures attention with its bright and lively character. As the fragrance settles, it transitions into a cozy, powdery base with a warm, inviting vanilla note, providing a comforting and long-lasting scent experience.
Health and Safety Notes:
While the fragrance components such as octyl methoxycinnamate and benzophenone-3 contribute to the scent profile and stability, their associated health risks have led to regulatory restrictions in certain regions, including Europe. Additionally, the presence of castor oil may cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.
Fleur du Lac Eau de Toilette remains a nostalgic scent for those who remember its brief presence in the market, offering a unique combination of floral brightness and warm vanilla comfort.
