La Rose Jacqueminot by Coty c1902

During the Edwardian era, garden parties reigned as the epitome of social gatherings among the elite. These events, steeped in tradition and elegance, provided the perfect backdrop for showcasing the latest floral marvels, including the coveted Jacqueminot rose. As guests mingled amidst the lush blooms, sipping on cool drinks, and indulging in dainty treats served al fresco, the successful blooming of the Jacqueminot rose stood as a testament to the host's horticultural prowess and status within polite society.

In the picturesque settings of these lively garden parties, elegant women adorned themselves in ethereal white lawn dresses, known as lingerie dresses, evoking a sense of timeless grace and sophistication. Their ensembles were complemented by large wide-brimmed picture hats, adorned with whimsical accents such as stuffed birds and blooming flowers, anchored in place by long, fancy hat pins.

As they chatted away amidst the fragrant blooms, these women may have held delicate hand-painted porcelain cups in one hand, savoring the refreshing taste of sweet iced tea or lemonade, while using a fancy hand fan in the other to cool off from the summer heat. Their attire was completed with pristine white gloves, adding a touch of refinement to their ensemble.

The tables were adorned with lace tablecloths, polished silver flatware, and sparkling crystal lemonade pitchers, creating an atmosphere of opulence and elegance. Amidst this scene of sophistication, the delicate aroma of the Jacqueminot rose lingered in the air, adding a layer of romantic allure to the festivities. With every breath, guests were transported to a realm of timeless beauty and refined luxury, where the essence of the rose intertwined seamlessly with the splendor of the garden party.

La Rose Jacqueminot, with its rich, floral scent, would have been well-received in this context. Named after the highly fragrant breed of roses, the perfume evoked a sense of luxury and romance. The association with the Napoleonic era added to its allure, tapping into the nostalgia for a romanticized past.

The popularity of La Rose Jacqueminot perfume mirrored the fascination with the Jacqueminot rose, capturing the essence of its exquisite fragrance and timeless beauty. Just as guests reveled in the splendor of the flowering garden at these garden parties, so too did wearers of the perfume immerse themselves in the allure of its romantic aroma, evoking images of sun-drenched garden paths and vibrant blossoms in full bloom.

Against the backdrop of these esteemed gatherings, where society loosened its reins and embraced the joys of nature and camaraderie, the Jacqueminot rose emerged as a cherished centerpiece, admired by all who beheld its radiant blooms. Its delicate petals, imbued with the essence of La Rose Jacqueminot, added a touch of elegance and refinement to the festivities, ensuring that these garden parties remained unforgettable affairs, steeped in beauty, grace, and the timeless allure of the rose.

 

In the United States, where La Rose Jacqueminot was introduced by 1906, the perfume would have been particularly popular among the growing middle class, who aspired to the lifestyle and glamour associated with European perfumes.

Cool Spell by Coty c1964

Cool Spell by Coty: launched in 1964 and was still being sold in the early 1970s. It was a refreshing cologne splash for women and came in a huge 12 oz size to last you all summer long. Other sizes included an 8 oz refreshing body cologne splash as well as a spray version in a 1.5 oz size. A scented dusting powder was also offered.

Muguet des Bois by Coty c1913

The launch of Muguet des Bois by Coty in 1913 occurred during a period of significant cultural and social shifts, particularly in the realm of women's rights and expression. François Coty, the visionary behind the fragrance, introduced it into a world where femininity was often associated with delicate, floral scents. The timing of the launch coincided with the burgeoning popularity of perfumes as an essential accessory for the modern woman, symbolizing elegance, refinement, and sensuality.

Lily of the valley, the focal note of Muguet des Bois, holds deep symbolism, especially in the context of femininity. Often associated with purity, innocence, and renewal, this delicate flower represented the idealized feminine virtues of the time. Its subtle yet enchanting fragrance became synonymous with grace and allure, making it a fitting choice for a perfume designed to accentuate the wearer's femininity.

Muguet des Bois by Coty embodied the essence of the era's feminine ideal, offering women a way to express themselves through scent. With its fresh, floral bouquet, the perfume captured the essence of springtime, evoking images of blooming gardens and romantic rendezvous. Its launch marked a pivotal moment in perfume history, cementing Coty's reputation as a master perfumer and setting the stage for the enduring legacy of Muguet des Bois as a timeless classic.

Pronounced "MEWGAY - DAY - BWAH"

Accomplice by Coty c1954

The perfume "?", also known as Question Mark, was launched by Coty in 1954 and later renamed Accomplice. This launch came during a period of significant cultural and historical context, reflecting both the legacy and ambitions of Francois Coty, the founder of the Coty brand.

The year 1954 falls within the post-World War II era, a time marked by significant social, economic, and technological changes. Europe was recovering from the war's devastation, and there was a renewed sense of optimism and innovation. In France, this period saw a resurgence in fashion, art, and culture, often referred to as the "Les Trente Glorieuses" (The Glorious Thirty), which was a time of economic growth and modernization. The launch of this perfume is tied to an earlier historical event in 1930 when Francois Coty financed a successful transatlantic flight in a plane named Le Point d'Interrogation (the Question Mark). This event was a significant achievement in aviation, especially since it was a westward flight from Paris to New York, considered more challenging due to prevailing winds. The success of this flight was a source of national pride for France and highlighted the spirit of innovation and adventure during the early 20th century.

Coty had designed, conceived and anonymously paid for a sterling silver replica of the plane executed by Cartier, internationally known jewelers in Paris, to be presented to President Hoover when the pilots visited America as a gift of the government of the Republic of France to Rockefeller Center. It was officially presented to Rockefeller Center by his Excellency, Andre Lefevre de Laboulaye, French Ambassador to the United States. The conclusion of a message to American president Herbert Hoover from French President Gaston Doumergue read, “…in forming one more tie between France and the United States, will contribute greatly to the development of their friendship of centuries.” The replica then was on display in the lobby of La Maison Francaise.

Iris by Coty c1913

In 1913, the world was in a state of flux. The early 20th century was marked by rapid industrialization, shifting social norms, and geopolitical tensions that would eventually culminate in World War I. This period was also characterized by an appreciation for art, culture, and luxury, especially among the upper classes.

Coty's launch of the perfume "Iris" in 1913 came at a time when perfumes were considered essential accessories for both men and women of refined taste. Coty, a French perfumer, was renowned for revolutionizing the perfume industry with his innovative scents and elegant packaging. "Iris" was no exception, as it encapsulated the essence of its namesake flower in a delicate and alluring fragrance.

Moia by Coty c1922

Moia by Coty: launched in 1922. Given the scarcity of historical references, describing the scent profile of Moia by Coty is speculative, but we can make educated guesses based on the name and available information.

Moia likely derives its name from the Moia Wood, also known as the Cherimoya tree. Cherimoya is a tropical American tree that produces round, heart-shaped, or oblong fruit. The blooms of the Cherimoya tree are known for their distinct vanilla scent. Therefore, it's reasonable to assume that Moia by Coty may have incorporated notes reminiscent of vanilla, possibly blended with tropical or fruity undertones to evoke the exotic allure of the Cherimoya tree.

Considering the fragrance trends of the early 20th century, Moia may have been formulated as a rich and complex scent, similar to other Coty fragrances of the time. It may have featured floral notes alongside the vanilla, creating a captivating and sophisticated aroma that appealed to the tastes of the era.

While Moia may not have achieved significant commercial success, its longevity on the market until at least 1929 suggests that it retained a loyal following, despite its relatively limited prominence in historical records.

Heliotrope by Coty c1910

The debut of Heliotrope by Coty in 1910 coincided with a fascinating era in history, particularly concerning women's fashion and fragrance preferences. This period marked the tail end of the Edwardian era, characterized by opulent and ornate fashion, while also witnessing a transition towards more practical and liberating styles that would define the 1920s. Influences from the Art Nouveau movement were evident, introducing more fluid and feminine designs to the fashion landscape.

During this time, women's fashion was marked by high collars, long skirts, and corseted waists, reflecting the elegance and formality of the era. Perfumes of the early 20th century were often complex and rich, with floral notes dominating. Heliotrope, named after the fragrant heliotrope flower, likely boasted a blend of violet, vanilla, almond, and heliotrope itself, creating a sweet and powdery fragrance. Women preferred perfumes that complemented their attire, projecting an image of sophistication and refinement. 

Le Nouveau Gardenia by Coty c1936

Le Nouveau Gardenia by Coty, launched in 1936, emerged during a transformative era marked by significant social, cultural, and economic changes. The mid-1930s, in particular, were a time of recovery and innovation in the aftermath of the Great Depression. This period saw a renewed focus on luxury and personal indulgence as people sought to reclaim a sense of normalcy and joy in their lives.

In the world of fashion and beauty, the 1930s were characterized by elegance and sophistication, with Hollywood's golden age influencing trends globally. Fragrances played a crucial role in the glamour of the time, with notable perfumers creating scents that reflected the opulence and refined tastes of the era.

Coty, already a renowned name in the fragrance industry, continued to innovate with releases like Le Nouveau Gardenia. This particular fragrance would have been a part of Coty's efforts to cater to the sophisticated tastes of its clientele, offering a sense of luxury and escapism through its floral notes.

Thus, Le Nouveau Gardenia not only represents a specific olfactory creation but also encapsulates the spirit of the mid-1930s, a time when people were eager to embrace beauty, elegance, and a renewed sense of optimism.

Four Seasons by Coty c1940

Four Seasons by Coty was launched in 1940, it was an eau de cologne.

Fleur Du Lac by Coty c1942

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.

Shakti by Coty c1950

The launch of the Shakti feminine fragranced deodorant powder by Coty in 1950 coincided with a pivotal era in history, marked by significant social, cultural, and economic transformations, particularly in the context of women's roles and rights.

It was a clean, subtle, cooling fragrance, "a fragrance which mysteriously blends with and enhances any other fragrance you wear."

Fairy Princess by Coty c1956

Fairy Princess by Coty was launched in 1956. It was toiletries for little girls. Sold up until around 1960.

A 1956 ad reads:

"Beauty for young girls begins at Schuster’s - Coty “Fairy Princess” Opens Door to “Grown-Up” Beauty Secrets. Fairy Princess Toiletries, specially blended by Coty for young misses. Simple to use personal grooming aids and cosmetics suited to their age and teaching younger misses important beauty habits,. Shown below are just a few of the many Fairy Princess beauty aids in our Toiletries Department - All 4 Stores.

• Colognes with atomizer
• Bubble bath packets
• Dusting powder
• Hand lotion
• Fragrance 3pc set
• and many other Coty “Fairy Princess” beautifiers."

A 1957 ad reads:

"COTY FAIRY PRINCESS. Cologne with Atomizer 1.25. Fairy Princes 125 Wand with ... fragrant... And it s all done with a touch of Coty's magical cosmetic wand.fairy wand by Coty. Magical gifts of glamour for the young miss. Daintily packaged by world renowned Coty. Gently fragranced for little girls. Fairy Princess"

A 1957 ad reads:

"From Coty.. Truly a Fairy Princess wand with a star and golden jingling bells on the end filled with bubble bath...astonishingly feminine they make their father gasp, the little minxes who are being flirtatious will adore Coty's Fairy Princess fripperies.."

A 1958 ad reads:

"Coty's Fairy Princess. A new magic fragrance for the fairest of all. A light delicate aura of magic for your young fairy princess to make her dream of castles. .COTY'S FAIRY PRINCESS. cologne with. atomizer 1.25. You'll feel sparkling and Light as the fairy princess herself floating on a flower petal of precious fragrance."

A lawsuit ensued in 1960 over the name Fairy Princess.

"SHAFFER v COTY INC 1960 183 F Supp 662 Ann SHAFFER Plaintiff v COTY INC a ... of an unregistered trademark Fairy Princess used in connection with plaintiff's.. This is an action for injunctive relief and damages grounded upon alleged infringement of an unregistered trademark, "Fairy Princess", used in connection with plaintiff's product on certain unusual containers designed to hold bubble bath, lotion, cologne, and the like."

Imprevu by Coty c1965

In 1965, when Coty launched Imprevu, the world was amidst a vibrant cultural shift. It was a time of considerable change and exploration, both socially and artistically. The mid-1960s marked the peak of the Swinging Sixties era, characterized by a rebellious spirit, a rejection of traditional values, and an embrace of youth culture.

Around the world, significant events were shaping history. In the United States, the Civil Rights Movement was gaining momentum, with key figures like Martin Luther King Jr. leading marches and protests for racial equality. The Vietnam War was escalating, sparking anti-war demonstrations and a countercultural movement that challenged authority and the status quo. In Europe, the Swinging London scene was flourishing, with its fashion, music, and art scenes capturing global attention.

For young women, especially those targeted by Coty's marketing for Imprevu, life was undergoing profound changes. The traditional roles and expectations of women were being redefined. The rise of feminism and the sexual revolution empowered women to assert their independence, challenge societal norms, and embrace their individuality. Fashion icons like Twiggy and Brigitte Bardot epitomized the era's liberated spirit, influencing trends with their bold styles and attitudes.

Imprevu's debut represented a deliberate departure into modernity, perfectly aligned with the zeitgeist of the Swinging Sixties. Crafted by Bernard Chant, the fragrance aimed to encapsulate the essence of the contemporary woman amidst a backdrop of societal change and cultural revolution. Its very name, "Imprevu," meaning "unforeseen" in French, hinted at the unpredictability and excitement of the times.

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.

La Fougeraie Au Crepuscule by Coty c1928

The launch of "La Fougeraie Au Crepuscule" by Coty in 1928 marked a significant moment in the history of perfume. François Coty, a renowned perfumer and entrepreneur, was behind this creation. It's noteworthy that this perfume was released during the interwar period, a time of significant cultural shifts and artistic exploration.

The choice of launching in 1928 places it in the era known as the "Roaring Twenties," a time characterized by economic prosperity, cultural dynamism, and social change, particularly in Western societies. Perfume, along with other luxury goods, experienced a surge in popularity during this time, as people sought to indulge in sensual pleasures and express their newfound freedoms.

The fact that "La Fougeraie Au Crepuscule" took five years to perfect speaks to the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that François Coty and his team invested in its creation. Perfume-making during this period was often a labor-intensive process, involving the sourcing of rare and exotic ingredients, as well as the blending of various essences to achieve a harmonious and distinctive scent profile.

By 1932, the perfume had made its way to the United States, reflecting Coty's ambition to tap into the lucrative American market. The 1930s marked a time of economic turmoil with the onset of the Great Depression, yet luxury items like perfume continued to hold appeal for those who could afford them.

"La Fougeraie Au Crepuscule" holds additional significance as François Coty's final perfume before his death in 1934. Coty was a pioneering figure in the world of fragrance, credited with revolutionizing the perfume industry through his innovative marketing strategies and the introduction of new scent compositions. As such, this perfume represents the culmination of his lifelong dedication to the art of perfumery.

Overall, the launch of "La Fougeraie Au Crepuscule" in the late 1920s and its subsequent arrival in the United States in the early 1930s occurred against the backdrop of a vibrant and evolving cultural landscape, marking a notable chapter in the history of perfume.

Sweet Earth by Coty c1972

From 1972-1976, Coty released its Sweet Earth line of perfume essences, soft mists, candles and colognes, but most importantly its solid perfume compacts. The solid perfume compacts came in single scents or trios based on a theme. Each compact had a sticker with a brief description of the scent enclosed which was attached inside the lid. At the time, several different solid perfume compacts were released.

Truly Lace by Coty c1992

"Truly Lace" was a feminine perfume launched by Coty in 1992. Coty, a well-known name in the fragrance industry, has a rich history of creating a wide range of perfumes, and "Truly Lace" fits into their legacy of classic and memorable scents. The early '90s was a vibrant era for the perfume market, with many iconic fragrances being introduced, and "Truly Lace" would have been part of that trend, capturing the essence of the time.

L'Effleurt by Coty c1907 vs. L'Effleur by Coty c1990

In the year 1907, Coty unveiled a captivating creation to the discerning society of the Edwardian era: L’Effleurt, a delicate floral perfume ensconced within a Baccarat flacon adorned with a label fashioned by the esteemed Rene Lalique.

This fragrant offering arrived amidst a time when elegance, refinement, and romance reigned supreme in the hearts of the populace. The turn of the century marked an era of opulence and sophistication, where every detail, from attire to accouterments, was meticulously curated to exude grace and charm.

With its enchanting slogan, ‘Somewhere inside romance blossoms,’ and the poetic declaration, "Fragrance of dream gardens - delicately accentuating the loveliness of flower women," L’Effleurt promised to transport wearers to a realm of ethereal beauty and timeless allure.

Such a perfume would have been received with great admiration and enthusiasm by the Edwardian society, as it perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the era—a desire for elegance, refinement, and a touch of romantic escapism. The exquisite craftsmanship of the Baccarat flacon and Lalique-designed label, coupled with the alluring fragrance within, would have undoubtedly captivated the hearts and senses of those fortunate enough to experience it. L’Effleurt stood as a testament to the artistry and sophistication of the time, solidifying Coty’s position as a purveyor of luxury and refinement in the world of perfumery.

Styx by Coty c1912

In 1912, the period surrounding the launch of Styx by Coty was one of burgeoning elegance and sophistication, characterized by the opulent ambiance of the Edwardian era. This was a time when society was captivated by the grandeur of luxury liners like the Titanic, embodying the epitome of glamour and refinement. The fashion of the time exuded grace and extravagance, with women draped in flowing gowns adorned with lace and pearls, while men donned impeccably tailored suits and polished top hats. Amidst this backdrop of burgeoning modernity and burgeoning social change, Coty unveiled Styx, a fragrance that encapsulated the essence of the era with its timeless blend of allure and sophistication.

"Let Styx be your perfume. It's dark and disturbing, pagan in its name."

Paris by Coty c1921

Paris in 1921 was a city of contrasts, blending the opulence of its Belle Époque past with the modernity of the Jazz Age. It was a time of artistic flourishing, with the likes of Picasso, Hemingway, and Fitzgerald frequenting its cafes and salons. The city pulsed with energy, its streets filled with the sounds of jazz music, the buzz of intellectual discourse, and the clinking of glasses in smoky speakeasies.

Against this backdrop, the name "Paris" evoked an air of sophistication, romance, and allure. It symbolized not just a geographical location, but a lifestyle, a sense of refinement and elegance that resonated with the aspirations of women in the early 20th century. Naming a perfume after Paris was a way to capture the essence of this iconic city, to bottle its mystique and charm, and to offer women a scent that promised to transport them to the romantic streets and gardens of the French capital.

Vincent Roubert, the perfumer behind Paris by Coty, understood the power of evocative branding. By associating his fragrance with Paris, he tapped into a potent blend of fantasy and reality, offering women a chance to experience a piece of the city's magic every time they spritzed the perfume on their skin. Just as Paris itself was a blend of tradition and innovation, so too was the fragrance—a floral bouquet that paid homage to the classics while embracing the spirit of modernity.