Masumi by Coty c1967

Masumi by Coty made its debut in 1967, but it wasn't until a 1976 article captured its essence with profound insight. Describing the perfume, the article noted how it seemed tailor-made for the burgeoning Yoga generation, encapsulating the spirit of an era seeking harmony and enlightenment.

ad from 1977

Fragrance Composition:

Notes at a glance:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral-green chypre fragrance for women. It begins with a fresh top note, followed by a classic elegant floral heart, layered over a feminine, mossy, powdery base.

Original perfume: 

• Top notes: bamboo, lemon, orange, coriander, estragon, aldehydes, osmanthus and bergamot
• Middle notes: lotus blossom, orris, carnation, lily, lilac, lily of the valley, mimosa, violet, Grasse jasmine, Grasse rose de mai, hyacinth
• Base notes: Indian musk, labdanum, Siamese benzoin, ambergris, Mysore sandalwood, galbanum, oakmoss, vetiver, patchouli, Venezuelan tonka bean

Scent Profile:

Imagine stepping into a scene straight out of the 1970s, where the air is thick with the scent of freedom, self-discovery, and a newfound appreciation for nature's bounty. Masumi by Coty, born in 1967 but truly coming into its own in the cultural landscape of the mid-70s, embodies the spirit of a generation seeking harmony, both within themselves and with the world around them.

As you inhale the perfume, you're transported to an era defined by the rise of the Yoga generation, a time when people were exploring alternative lifestyles, embracing Eastern philosophies, and reconnecting with the rhythms of nature. Masumi captures this zeitgeist perfectly, offering a fragrance experience that resonates with those who seek balance, serenity, and authenticity in their lives.

The fresh top notes of bamboo, lemon, and orange evoke images of sun-dappled groves and citrus orchards, while the earthy undertones of coriander and estragon hint at the grounding influence of herbal remedies and holistic practices. Aldehydes add a touch of modernity and sophistication, signaling a departure from the heavy perfumes of previous decades.

As the scent unfolds, a lush bouquet of florals takes center stage, each bloom a nod to the natural world and its transformative power. Lotus blossom, orris, and may rose symbolize purity and renewal, while jasmine and violet exude sensuality and mystery. Lily of the valley and lilac lend a nostalgic sweetness, reminiscent of carefree days spent wandering through meadows and gardens.

But it's in the base notes that Masumi truly reveals its depth and complexity. Indian musk, labdanum, and ambergris create a warm, sensual aura, inviting you to embrace your innermost desires and passions. Mysore sandalwood and patchouli ground the fragrance in the earthy richness of the natural world, while vetiver and oakmoss add a touch of ruggedness and resilience.

In essence, Masumi by Coty is more than just a perfume—it's a sensory journey back to a time of exploration, experimentation, and enlightenment, where the essence of the Yoga generation is captured in every intoxicating note.

Product Line:

Masumi was a sensory delight, offering a range of luxurious products to enhance your fragrance experience:

• 0.85 oz Eau de Toilette Spray: A convenient and portable option for a quick spritz of elegance on the go.

• 1.33 oz Facial Soap: Pamper your skin with the gentle cleansing power of Masumi, leaving it refreshed and delicately scented.

• 2 oz Cologne Spray: A larger format for those who wish to envelop themselves in the captivating aroma of Masumi.

• 3 oz Cologne Splash: Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of Masumi with this indulgent splash-on cologne.

• 3.5 oz Body Cream: Luxuriate in the velvety texture of Masumi's body cream, leaving your skin soft, smooth, and subtly fragranced.

• 4 oz Dusting Powder w/Puff: Experience the ultimate indulgence with Masumi's dusting powder, delicately scented and perfect for a touch of luxury after a bath or shower.

• Bath Cubes: Transform your bath into a sanctuary of relaxation with Masumi's aromatic bath cubes, dissolving to release a cloud of fragrance.

• Bath Soap: Elevate your daily bathing ritual with Masumi's beautifully scented bath soap, cleansing both body and mind with its exquisite aroma.

Fate of the Fragrance:

The fragrance was reformulated and relaunched in new packaging in 1976.

New version:

• Top notes: bergamot, rosewood, melon and pineapple
• Middle notes: violet, cardamom and rose
• Base notes: amber, sandalwood, cedar, vanilla, oakmoss and musk

In its 1976 reformulation, Masumi emerged with a renewed vibrancy, encapsulating the essence of the era with its modernized composition and stylish new packaging.

At the forefront, the fragrance opens with a burst of citrus freshness, as bergamot lends its sparkling zest alongside the woody richness of rosewood. A tantalizing hint of tropical allure emerges with the succulent sweetness of melon and pineapple, setting the stage for the olfactory journey ahead.

As the fragrance evolves, a floral heart unfurls, where delicate violet petals intertwine with the spicy warmth of cardamom and the timeless elegance of rose. This aromatic symphony strikes a perfect balance between soft femininity and intriguing complexity, drawing you deeper into its embrace.

Finally, as the scent settles, a sumptuous base emerges, anchored by the luxurious richness of amber and the creamy smoothness of sandalwood. Cedar adds a touch of sophistication, while vanilla lends a sweet, comforting warmth. Oakmoss and musk infuse the composition with a timeless sensuality, leaving a lingering trail of captivating allure in your wake.

With its refined formulation and updated presentation, Masumi's relaunch in 1976 captured the essence of its time, embodying the spirit of modernity, elegance, and sophistication.

Masumi's legacy extended beyond its original formulation, giving rise to a collection of flanker scents that added new dimensions to its captivating allure. Among these offspring were Eau Masumi, Toujours Masumi, and Masumi Je Taime, each offering a unique interpretation of the beloved fragrance.

However, despite their individual charm, all good things must eventually come to an end. By 1994, Masumi and its flanker scents had been discontinued, leaving behind only memories of their exquisite aromas. While the original Masumi may still be relatively accessible, the flanker scents have become elusive treasures, sought after by fragrance enthusiasts and collectors alike.

In the realm of perfumery, discontinued fragrances often acquire an aura of mystique, their scarcity adding to their allure. As a result, tracking down these elusive flanker scents can be a challenge, requiring a keen eye and perhaps a bit of luck.

Yet, for those fortunate enough to experience the magic of Masumi and its progeny, the memories linger on, preserved in the fragrant echoes of a bygone era.

 

Good Housekeeping, 1977:

"Masumi. It is calm. Serene. It fills you with tranquility. Beauty. As Masumi lingers, you become radiant. Masumi perfume, the essence of inner beauty."

Mademoiselle, 1977:

"The Masumi Experience. You begin. You breathe Masumi. You touch Masumi. Masumi touches you. Tranquil. Serene. As Masumi lingers your inner beauty emerges. You feel renewed. Experience Masumi. Perfume by Coty."

McCall's, 1978:

"FOR HER: A hand woven basket filled with the Masumi Bath Ensemble: fragrant soap, body creme and eau de cologne. From Coty, $7.95."

Structure, Style and Communication, 1980:

"Its name is Masumi, a classic new French perfume unmistakably touched with greatness. a new word in the language of love MASUMI de COTY, Made in France. Inspired by the East."

In the late 1970s, Masumi by Coty garnered praise for its ability to evoke a sense of tranquility and inner beauty. Good Housekeeping described it as serene and radiant, filling one with tranquility and inner beauty. Mademoiselle highlighted the immersive experience of Masumi, emphasizing its tranquil and serene qualities, which lead to a sense of renewal and the emergence of inner beauty. McCall's showcased the Masumi Bath Ensemble, offering fragrant soap, body cream, and eau de cologne, encapsulating the essence of Masumi in a luxurious gift set. Furthermore, in 1980, Masumi was celebrated as a classic French perfume imbued with greatness, its name becoming synonymous with love and inspiration from the East.

photo by franceseattle

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