Complice de Francois Coty c1973

In 1934, Francois Coty conceived Complice ('Accomplice'), a fragrance ahead of its time. However, fate intervened as Coty passed away before his creation could grace the market. For nearly four decades, Complice lay dormant, waiting for its moment to shine. In 1973, the Coty company finally unveiled this long-awaited gem, encased in a bottle echoing the design aesthetics of its inception era. The journey of Complice is one of perseverance and legacy, with its name officially trademarked in 1939, a testament to the company's assertion of its use since 1938.

In a masterful stroke of homage and revitalization, the Coty perfume company embarked on a journey to resurrect the illustrious legacy of its founder in the realm of perfumery. With the relaunch of Complice, Coty sought to reintroduce a touch of the glamour and sophistication for which the brand had long been celebrated.

The revival of Complice was more than just a reintroduction of a fragrance; it was a strategic move to elevate the Coty brand back to its esteemed position among high-end perfumes. By imbuing the presentation with elegance and refinement, Coty aimed to dispel any notion of its products being confined to the shelves of drugstores and discount shops. The meticulously designed bottles, reminiscent of the exquisite creations of the legendary Rene Lalique, served as a visual testament to the artistry and craftsmanship that defined Coty's perfumes.

In embracing the aesthetic sensibilities of Lalique, Coty reaffirmed the notion that perfume was not merely a commodity but a form of art. The intricate designs of the bottles mirrored the intricacies of the fragrances they contained, each element meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of luxury and sophistication.

With Complice, Coty invited the world to rediscover the allure of perfume as a symbol of elegance and indulgence. The relaunch was a statement of Coty's enduring commitment to excellence and innovation in the realm of fragrance, ensuring that its founder's legacy would continue to shine brightly in the annals of perfumery history.

L'Origan by Coty c1905

L'Origan by Coty was launched in 1905, a time when the world was on the cusp of modernity but still deeply rooted in the traditions and sensibilities of the 19th century. This era, often referred to as the Belle Époque in France, was characterized by cultural flourishing, artistic innovation, and a sense of optimism before the upheaval of World War I. The name "L'Origan," meaning "marjoram" in French, evokes the quintessential landscape of Provence, a region in southeastern France known for its idyllic countryside. The early 20th-century Provençal fields would have been vibrant with the colors and fragrances of blossoming flowers and aromatic herbs, painting a picture of serene natural beauty and pastoral charm.

The fields of Provence were, and still are, famous for their lush, fragrant flowers. Lavender, with its deep purple hues, was particularly iconic, alongside sunflowers, poppies, and roses. These flowers not only provided a visual feast but also filled the air with their sweet and intoxicating scents. Provence was also renowned for its herbs, including thyme, rosemary, sage, and, of course, marjoram. These herbs were not just culinary staples but integral to the region's olfactory identity, contributing to the complex, herbaceous aromas that perfumed the air.

Le Vertige by Coty c1906

"Le Vertige" by Coty, debuted in 1906, encapsulates the vibrant spirit of its time, mirroring the dynamic performances of dance troupes and ballets. Picture a stage alive with the graceful ballet dancers and the spirited can-can performers, all swirling together in a dizzying whirl of excitement that echoes the fragrance's essence. Just as dancers enchant their audience with choreographed elegance, "Le Vertige" captivates with its lively blend of scents, inviting wearers to immerse themselves in the exhilarating rhythm of the dance.

Crafted by Vincent Roubert, Coty's chief perfumer, "Le Vertige," pronounced "LEH-VAIR-TEEJH," embodies the lively, dizzying tempo of dance. Its name, meaning "dizziness" in French, vividly portrays the energetic atmosphere reminiscent of the era's dance troupes and ballets.

Masumi Toujours by Coty c2001

Masumi Toujours, a fragrance introduced by Coty in 2001, is a contemporary interpretation and extension of the classic Masumi fragrance, which debuted in 1967. As a flanker scent, Masumi Toujours builds upon the timeless essence of its predecessor while infusing it with modern elements, creating a scent that pays homage to the original yet stands out with its own unique character. It captures the essence of enduring elegance while embracing the spirit of the present, making it a captivating choice for those seeking a blend of tradition and innovation in their fragrance experience.

Masumi Je T'aime by Coty c2003

"Masumi Je T'aime by Coty," introduced in 2003, is a captivating fragrance that builds upon the legacy of Coty's iconic perfume, Masumi, which debuted in 1967. Serving as a flanker scent, Masumi Je T'aime embodies a modern interpretation of its predecessor, infusing it with contemporary notes and nuances while retaining the essence that made the original Masumi timeless. It's a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, designed to evoke feelings of love and allure with each delightful spritz.

Eau Masumi by Coty c1993

Introducing Eau Masumi by Coty, a fragrant testament to the refined tastes of 1990s women. Released in 1993 as a companion to Coty's iconic 1967 fragrance, Masumi, this exquisite scent represents a departure from the bold and heady aromas of previous decades. Eau Masumi offers a delicate and nuanced olfactory experience, catering to the preference for lighter scents among modern women.  

Emeraude by Coty c1918

Emeraude by Coty, launched in 1918 and crafted by the visionary perfumer François Coty, is a fragrance steeped in historical significance and cultural reverence. Pronounced "EM-AIR-ODE," the name itself, meaning "emerald" in French, hints at the rich narrative that inspired its creation.

In the early 20th century, François Coty was captivated by the ancient Persian culture, particularly their veneration of the emerald. The Persians, renowned for their sophisticated civilization and deep appreciation for the arts and sciences, held emeralds in high esteem. These precious stones were not merely ornamental but were believed to possess profound mystical powers. They were often housed in temples, symbolizing divine protection and happiness.

Against the backdrop of World War I, a period marked by turmoil and longing for beauty and stability, Coty sought to infuse his creations with a sense of wonder and escapism. His fascination with Persian legends and the emerald's reputed ability to bring divine happiness provided the perfect muse.

The post-war era, characterized by a yearning for peace and a return to elegance, found a perfect expression in Emeraude. Coty's goal was ambitious: to encapsulate the allure and mystique of the emerald, transforming its essence into a sensory experience. Emeraude was more than a fragrance; it was an olfactory representation of the emerald's soul, designed to evoke the same reverence and enchantment that the Persians felt towards their treasured jewels.

 

Launched during a time when modern perfumery was beginning to blossom, Emeraude stood out with its complex blend, balancing citrus top notes with a warm, spicy heart and a sensual, woody base. This composition was groundbreaking, setting a new standard for luxury fragrances. It invited wearers to embark on a journey through time and space, connecting them to the ancient Persian mystique while offering a modern sense of luxury and sophistication.

In essence, Emeraude by Coty is not just a perfume; it is a narrative encapsulated in a bottle, bridging the historical reverence of Persian culture with the early 20th century's desire for beauty and serenity amidst chaos. François Coty's creation remains a testament to the timeless allure of the emerald and the enduring power of storytelling in perfumery.

Coty 1935 Perfume Presentations Ad

Coffret No. 22 - Crystal flacon of Chypre, Le Lilas Blanc or Le Nouveau Gardenia.

Coffret No. 23 - This flacon was used for l'Aimant, L'Origan. Le Muguet and Paris.

Flacon for A'Suma, available in two sizes.

No. 8601 - flacon and "platinum finished" compact housed inside a "shagreen" box.

No. 21 - Presentation holding Bath Salts, Bath Dusting Powder, Toilet Soap and Eau de Cologne.

Emeraude Catalog Numbers c1932

From a 1932 Coty Catalog, with original prices noted.

Emeraude Essence

• 4099 - 8 ml flacon...retail $1.00
• 4097 - 16 ml flacon...retail $2.00
• 4096 - 32 ml flacon, fancy box...retail $3.75
• 4000 - 50 ml crystal flacon, green leather case...retail $7.50 (shown in photo above)
• 4001 - 50 ml crystal flacon, tasseled box ...retail $7.25 (shown in photo above)
• 4002 - 102 ml- crystal flacon, green leather case...retail $15.00
• 4003 - 102 ml - crystal flacon, grey suede box ...retail $15.00
• 4004 - 125 ml - flacon, corrugated carton...retail $12.50
• 4004bis - 200 ml - crystal flacon, embossed box...retail $18.00
• C4004bis - 200 ml - crystal flacon, green leather case...retail $25.00
• 4004ter - 335 ml - crystal flacon, blue leather case...retail $50.00
• 4005 - 250 ml - flacon, corrugated carton...retail $24.00

Metal Purse Containers

• 4099M - 8 ml flacon-platinum-toned...retail $1.50
• 4099G - 8 ml flacon- gold plated ...retail $5.00

Also created in:

• Face Powder
• Compacts
• Refills
• Toilet Water
• Dusting Powder
• Talcum
• Sachet
• Bath Salts
• Brilliantine
• Lotion for the Hair
• Soap

Frosted Talc Flacons

Frosted glass talcum flacon, brass shaker lid, gold foil label. Not made by Lalique, but made by Coty's own glassworks. The brass screw cap opens by turning the top of the cap left or right to reveal the shaker holes. The base of the bottle is embossed with "COTY." The bottle stands just under 5 1/8 inches.

Information from a 1932 Coty catalog, complete with original retail prices.

Serial No. 93 - in Bottles-Blanche. Retail price $1.00

• Available in all odors except Heliotrope, Jacinthe and Ambreine

Serial No. 93 - in Bottles-Rose. Retail price $1.00

Available in:

• L’Origan No. 1193
• Paris No. 3093
• L’Aimant No. 293
• Chypre No. 193
• Emeraude No. 4093
• Styx No. 2193
• La Rose Jacqueminot No. 993

Briar Flacons

Lalique designed flacon, made by Coty's own glassworks, featuring frosted "briar" motif stopper. Information from a 1932 Coty catalog, complete with original retail prices. Starting with the lowest price perfumes to the most expensive perfumes.

Toilette Water
Eau de Toilette in Embossed Box

• No. 08 - In Decorated Boxes, 105ml...retail $3.25
• No. 09 - In Decorated Boxes, 210ml...retail $6.25
• No. 10 - Corrugated Boxes, 425ml...retail $11.00
• No. 11 - Corrugated Boxes, 750ml...retail $21.00

In the following odors:

• Lilas Blanc
• Heliotrope
• Violette
• Jacinthe

Toilette Water
Eau de Toilette in Embossed Box

• No. 08 - In Decorated Boxes, 105ml...retail $4.00
• No. 09 - In Decorated Boxes, 210ml...retail $7.00
• No. 10 - Corrugated Boxes, 425ml...retail $13.00
• No. 11 - Corrugated Boxes, 750ml...retail $25.00

In the following odors:

• L’Origan
• L’Aimant
• Chypre
• Violette Pourpre
• La Rose Jacqueminot
• Iris
• Ambreine
• L’Oeillet France
• Cyclamen
• Lilas Pourpre
• L’Or
• Paris
• Emeraude
• La Jacee
• Muguet

Toilette Water
Eau de Toilette in Embossed Box

• No. 08 - In Decorated Boxes, 105ml...retail $4.25
• No. 09 - In Decorated Boxes, 210ml...retail $7.25
• No. 10 - Corrugated Boxes, 425ml...retail $14.00
• No. 11 - Corrugated Boxes, 750ml...retail $27.00

In the following odors:

• Jasmin de Corse
• L’Effleurt
• L’Ambre Antique
• Styx

L'Origan Catalog Numbers c1932

From a 1932 Coty Catalog, with original prices noted.

L’Origan Essence

• 1097 - 8 ml flacon...retail $1.00
• 1098 - 16 ml flacon...retail $2.00
• 1099 - 32 ml flacon, fancy box...retail $3.75
• 1100 - 50 ml crystal flacon, red leather case...retail $7.50 (shown in photo above)
• 1101 - 50 ml crystal flacon, gold leaf tasseled box ...retail $7.00 (shown in photo above)
• 1102 - 102 ml- crystal flacon, red leather case...retail $15.00
• 1103 - 102 ml - crystal flacon, gold leaf tasseled box ...retail $14.00
• 1104 - 125 ml - flacon, corrugated carton...retail $12.50
• 1104bis - 200 ml - crystal flacon, embossed box...retail $18.00
• C1104bis - 200 ml - crystal flacon, red leather case...retail $25.00
• 1104ter - 335 ml - crystal flacon, blue leather case...retail $50.00
• 1105 - 250 ml - flacon, corrugated carton...retail $24.00

Metal Purse Containers

• 1199M - 8 ml flacon-platinum-toned...retail $1.50
• 1199G - 8 ml flacon- gold plated ...retail $5.00

Also created in:

• Face Powder
• Compacts
• Refills
• Toilet Water
• Dusting Powder
• Talcum
• Sachet
• Bath Salts
• Brilliantine
• Lotion for the Hair
• Soap

Coty Compacts c1932

Coty Cygnet (Swan) Perfume Presentations

Coty's Cygnet perfume presentations are adorned with two gilded or silver finished plastic swans holding a small purse perfume flacon and Sub Deb lipstick, and the trio also includes an Air Spun scented face powder compact.

The perfume bottles are frosted glass and have an Art Nouveau flair to them which can make some people mistake them for Lalique bottles, however, these were not made by Lalique, they were made by Coty's own glassworks.

These presentations date to the early 1950s.

LIFE, 1952:

"Coty Cygnet Trio...$5.00
Coty Cygnet Duo...$3.25"

Cygnet Trio for Emeraude.

Cygnet Trio for Paris, photo from ebay

Coty Fragrance Bar Perfume Presentation

Coty's  Fragrance Bar was a Perfume Presentation holding three perfumes inside of a lucite tantalus, complete with a chain and lock, and was available in L'Origan, L'Aimant, Emeraude, Paris and Muguet des Bois.