Iris by Coty c1911

In 1911, 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 1911 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 Given the scarcity of historical references, describing the scent profile of Moia by Coty is speculative, but we can make educated guesses based on the name and available information.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. 

Lotion Coty

In 1932, America was introduced to Coty's hair lotions, these were already known in Europe, where they had already had a great success since 1920.

Printer's Ink, 1932:

"The product, a hair lotion, is new to the Coty line in the United States. It centers around promotion of a beauty salon service that has long term practiced in France. There, when a woman has her hair dressed, she usually has her hair perfumed."

The New Yorker, 1933:

"Well-known to smart heads that have been coiffed on the Continent, Lotion Coty for the Hair is currently available in your favorite scent: Paris, L'Origan, Lavande, Emeraude, Muguet, Chypre, Styx, L'Aimant, La Rose Jacqueminot, Lilas Pourpre, Violette Pourpre, Eau de Coty, L'Or, Ambre Antique."

c1930 Lotion in Eau de Coty scent, photo from a French perfume miniature website.

c1920s Lotion in Chypre scent, photo by ebay seller petrpavek1

 

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.

Informal Fragrance by Coty c1939

Coty's "Informal Fragrance," launched in 1939, was essentially another term for their Eau de Toilette, emphasizing its lighter and more casual nature compared to the more concentrated Eau de Parfum. 

Advertised as a fresh and delightful option for everyday use, this product was available in many of Coty's popular scents such as Paris, Emeraude, Chypre, L'Aimant, Lilas Pourpre, and L'Origan. 

The marketing highlighted its casual elegance, likening it to the freshness of a cool summer evening and promoting its use for keeping crisp and exquisite all summer long. 

The innovative packaging, including a sky-blue bottle encased in cellophane and the introduction of atomizers, made it convenient and appealing. 

Coty emphasized the rich, lasting quality of these fragrances, yet priced them affordably to encourage lavish use.

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."

Coty's Powder Pouf Shakers

Introduced in 1972 and sold until around 1976, Coty's Powder Pouf, charming basket-weave shakers with puff-tops, retailed at just $3 each, color-keyed as always in:

• Emeraude (green)
• L'Aimant (pink)
• Imprevu (baby blue)
• Muguet des Bois (aqua blue)
• Wild Musk (off white)
• Masumi (yellow)
• L'Origan (orange)

These were sold individually in their own boxes or in a gift set along with cologne.

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.

Meteor by Coty c1949

Launched in France in 1949 and introduced to the U.S. market by 1951, Meteor by Coty arrived during a transformative yet turbulent period in global history. The late 1940s and early 1950s were defined by the aftermath of World War II, the emergence of the Cold War, and groundbreaking advancements in science and technology. Against this backdrop of rapid progress and geopolitical tension, Coty’s Meteor offered a symbol of the era’s intrigue and innovation, reflecting the cultural fascination with space and the unknown.

A meteor is the visible streak of light that occurs when a meteoroid—a small fragment of rock or metal from space—enters Earth’s atmosphere at high speed and burns up due to friction with the air. This phenomenon is often referred to as a "shooting star" or "falling star," although it is not a star at all. The word "meteor" comes from the Greek meteoros, meaning "high in the air." Pronounced as MEE-tee-or, it conjures vivid imagery of celestial bodies streaking across the night sky—a fleeting moment of brilliance and awe. The name resonated deeply with the zeitgeist, evoking excitement, wonder, and the allure of the unknown. During a time when space exploration was beginning to capture the collective imagination, a perfume named Meteor seemed daring, modern, and forward-looking. Its celestial reference aligned perfectly with the atomic age’s dual themes of immense power and vast possibility.

The launch of Meteor occurred during a pivotal historical period. The world was still grappling with the aftermath of WWII, rebuilding societies while simultaneously navigating the escalating tensions of the Cold War. The Soviet Union’s successful atomic bomb test in 1949 sparked fears of nuclear annihilation while also igniting a scientific race that included early aspirations for space exploration. It was a time of contrasts: apprehension and hope, destruction and creation.

In fashion, the post-war era saw a return to elegance and femininity, epitomized by Christian Dior’s revolutionary "New Look," introduced in 1947. Women embraced full skirts, nipped waists, and structured silhouettes as they sought glamour and escapism in their everyday lives. Beauty trends leaned toward sophistication, with perfumes playing a significant role in completing the idealized image of the modern woman. Meteor, with its evocative name and luxurious profile, offered women a piece of this optimism and aspiration.

Classified as an aldehydic floral, Meteor encapsulated the era’s fascination with modernity and refinement. The aldehydes provided a bright, airy opening, reminiscent of the dazzling light of a meteor’s trail across the sky. Jasmine, tuberose, and rose formed the heart of the fragrance, creating a lush, opulent bouquet that evoked the elegance and femininity of the 1950s. These classic floral notes were deepened with musk and civet, adding an animalic warmth and sensuality that reflected the complexity of the times. The result was a fragrance that felt timeless yet entirely contemporary, offering a blend of lightness and depth that resonated with women seeking both sophistication and allure.

Elan by Coty c1968

In 1968, a pivotal year in the history of women’s empowerment, Coty introduced Élan, a fragrance that reflected the dynamic and progressive spirit of the time. After seven years of meticulous development, Élan emerged as a masterpiece of perfumery, designed to honor the evolving role of women in society. It was more than just a perfume—it was a celebration of confidence, vitality, and grace, mirroring the cultural and social revolutions of the late 1960s.

The name Élan is derived from French, where it signifies enthusiasm, energy, and a spirited confidence. Pronounced ay-lahn (with a soft "n"), the word evokes images of elegance, dynamism, and momentum. It captures the essence of vitality, a quality that Coty sought to embody in the fragrance. The choice of this name was deliberate, reflecting the empowered and forward-moving nature of women during this transformative era.

The late 1960s were a time of profound cultural change, often described as the height of the women’s liberation movement. Women were challenging societal norms, entering the workforce in greater numbers, and asserting their rights for equality and autonomy. This was also the era of the counterculture movement, marked by protests, artistic experimentation, and a questioning of traditional values.

Fashion and beauty trends of the time mirrored this spirit of liberation. Women embraced bold, expressive styles, from miniskirts and go-go boots to natural hairstyles and minimalist makeup. A perfume like Élan would have appealed to women who sought to express their individuality and confidence. It resonated as a statement of sophistication and empowerment, aligning with the aspirations of the modern woman.

Coty Culturiste Creations c1930

From 1930, Coty introduces "Culturiste Creations", included the following products: Colcreme, Potonique Toning Lotion, Tissue Cream, Eau De Coty Astringent, Lotion Pour La Peau and Creme De Beaute.

“Culturiste Creations sound the new note in the world of beauty—the quicker, surer way based on supreme modern knowledge of the skin. The great truth back of them is the vitalizing principle. Cleansing and clearing the skin—strengthening muscles and livening circulation so the blood comes dancing to the cells—smoothing and refining the texture—they build or maintain a natural beauty that radiates the freshness of youth.”

Look at the shape of the bottles and the jars. I have seen these jars on ebay from time to time (usually empty).