Epris by Max Factor c1981

In 1981, the world was witnessing a transformation in its approach to love and personal expression. The early 1980s were characterized by a burgeoning sense of individuality and self-expression, influenced by the rise of new wave music, vibrant fashion, and a renewed focus on personal style. This period saw a blending of old and new sensibilities, with classic romantic ideals being reinterpreted through modern lenses. Love was increasingly seen as a powerful personal statement, and perfume became an essential tool for expressing one's unique identity and emotions.

The name "Épris," derived from the French verb "Éprendre," meaning "to be captivated with love" or "to be enamored," captures the essence of this transformative period. Pronounced "ay-PREE," the name evokes a sense of deep emotional engagement and enchantment. For a perfume, this name suggests a fragrance designed not merely to scent the body but to create a profound, captivating experience. The choice of "Épris" reflects a desire to convey the intense, almost irresistible nature of love—one that can sweep someone off their feet and linger in their memories.

Women of the early 1980s, seeking to project sophistication and individuality, would find "Épris" a compelling choice. The name resonates with the era's romantic idealism and personal empowerment. It implies a fragrance that is more than a mere accessory; it’s an embodiment of the wearer’s innermost feelings and desires. The word "Épris" evokes images of passionate love, captivating moments, and an air of refined elegance. It suggests a perfume that is not just worn but experienced—a sensory journey into the heart of romance.

In the context of the early 1980s, "Épris" was a unique and evocative name. While many perfumes of the time focused on overtly glamorous or exotic themes, "Épris" offered a subtler, more intimate allure. It stood out by promising not just a fragrance but an emotional experience. The name would have been interpreted as both elegant and emotionally resonant, appealing to those who wanted their perfume to convey a deeper connection to the themes of love and enchantment.

Overall, "Épris" by Max Factor, launched in 1981, was a thoughtful choice that reflected the era's evolving approach to romance and personal expression. The name carried with it an aura of sophistication and emotional depth, making it a memorable and fitting addition to the perfume landscape of the time.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Jaclyn Smith emerged as a prominent figure in the world of fashion and entertainment, largely due to her iconic role as Kelly Garrett in the television series Charlie's Angels. Known for her striking beauty, grace, and charismatic presence, Smith quickly became a symbol of sophistication and style. Her association with Épris perfume, launched by Max Factor, was a natural extension of her public persona, enhancing the fragrance's appeal and marketability.

Jaclyn Smith's role as the face of Épris was a carefully curated branding strategy that leveraged her star power and elegance. Her involvement went beyond mere appearances in advertisements; she actively participated in promotional events and in-store appearances. These personal engagements allowed Smith to connect directly with consumers, showcasing the fragrance in a relatable and aspirational context. Her public appearances often highlighted her refined taste and personal charm, attributes that resonated with the Épris brand ethos.

The impact of Jaclyn Smith's association with Épris was significant. Her endorsement lent the perfume an air of glamour and exclusivity, aligning it with the high-profile world of celebrity and fashion. Smith's ability to embody the sophistication and allure associated with Épris helped elevate the fragrance's status, making it a coveted item for women seeking to emulate her style and grace. Through her promotional activities, Smith not only increased the fragrance's visibility but also contributed to its enduring popularity, reinforcing its image as a symbol of elegance and romantic allure in the early 1980s.

Fragrance Composition:

Notes at a glance:

So what does it smell like? It is classified as a floral mossy animalic chypre fragrance for women. It starts off with a sparkling aldehydic top note, followed by an elegant exotic floral heart punctuated with soft oriental spice and herbal notes layered over a sweet, powdery base.

• Top notes: aldehydes, bergamot, estragon, lemon, mimosa, coriander, basil
• Middle notes: carnation, clove, ylang ylang, lily of the valley, Damascene rose, jasmine, orris
• Base notes: oakmoss, amber, sandalwood, vetiver, musk, incense, vanilla

Scent Profile:

The inclusion of aldehydes, bergamot, estragon, lemon, mimosa, coriander, and basil in the top notes creates a bright and invigorating start to Épris perfume. Aldehydes provide a sparkling, effervescent quality, while bergamot and lemon contribute citrusy freshness. The herbal notes of estragon, coriander, and basil add a green and aromatic touch, enhancing the overall complexity of the fragrance. Mimosa, with its delicate floral scent, offers a soft and powdery aspect to the opening, rounding out the top notes with a hint of sweetness. This combination creates an enticing initial impression, drawing you into the layers of the fragrance as it evolves on the skin.

The middle notes of Épris perfume offer a rich and captivating floral bouquet, complemented by spicy and herbal undertones. Carnation, with its spicy and clove-like aroma, adds warmth and depth to the heart of the fragrance, while ylang ylang contributes a creamy and exotic floral sweetness. Lily of the valley provides a fresh and delicate floral note, balancing the richness of the other florals. Damascene rose and jasmine, both classic and opulent floral ingredients, infuse the heart with a romantic and luxurious character. Orris, known for its powdery and slightly earthy scent, adds a sophisticated touch, enhancing the overall elegance of the fragrance. The inclusion of oriental spices like clove alongside herbal notes such as estragon, coriander, and basil adds complexity and intrigue, creating an enchanting olfactory experience at the heart of Épris.

The base notes of Épris perfume provide a warm and inviting foundation, with a blend of woody, earthy, and sensual accords. Oakmoss, a classic ingredient in chypre fragrances, lends a deep and earthy quality, anchoring the scent with its rich aroma. Amber, known for its warm and resinous scent, adds a comforting sweetness and depth to the base. Sandalwood and vetiver offer a creamy and smoky woodiness, adding complexity and sophistication to the fragrance. Musk, with its sensual and animalic nuances, contributes a soft and alluring warmth, enhancing the overall sensuality of the scent. Incense might provide a touch of mystery and depth, adding a resinous and smoky aspect to the base. Finally, vanilla adds a sweet and creamy richness, rounding out the composition and providing a subtle sweetness that lingers on the skin. Overall, these base notes create a harmonious and inviting finish to Épris, ensuring a lasting and memorable impression.

Bottles:

"Epris" is the new fragrance introduced by MAX FACTOR. Beautifully packaged in a slim, crystal-like, faceted bottle topped with an oversized silvery cap, "Epris" is a long-lasting, sophisticated, semi-Oriental floral blend."

The slim, crystal-like, faceted bottle topped with an oversized silvery cap suggests a sense of luxury and elegance, perfectly complementing the essence of the fragrance within. Described as a long-lasting, sophisticated, semi-Oriental floral blend, "Epris" seems to offer a balance of timeless floral notes with hints of exotic spices and oriental warmth, creating a scent that is both alluring and refined. Its introduction into the world of fragrances likely adds a new dimension to Max Factor's repertoire, appealing to those seeking a fragrance that exudes sophistication and charm.

 It sounds like "Epris" was available in a variety of formulations and sizes, catering to different preferences and occasions. Here's a breakdown of the options:

• 0.25 oz Parfum: A concentrated form of the fragrance, perfect for those who prefer a more intense and long-lasting scent.

• 0.33 oz Parfum in Quilted Pouch: A convenient and stylish option for carrying the fragrance on the go, perhaps with a touch of added elegance with the quilted pouch.

• 0.33 oz Parfum Purse Spray: Another travel-friendly option, ideal for keeping in your purse or bag for quick and easy application throughout the day.

• 0.6 oz Concentrated Cologne Spray: A slightly larger size of the fragrance in a spray format, offering a generous amount for regular use.

• 1.3 oz Concentrated Cologne Spray: A larger size of the fragrance in spray form, suitable for those who use the scent frequently.

• 2.5 oz Concentrated Cologne Spray: The largest spray option, providing ample fragrance for extended use.

• 1.3 oz Concentrated Cologne Splash: A different application method, offering a splash-on option for those who prefer a more traditional approach to applying fragrance.

• 2.5 oz Concentrated Cologne Splash: A larger size of the splash-on formulation, ensuring plenty of fragrance for repeated use.

• Creme Perfume: A unique formulation, likely offering a luxurious and moisturizing way to wear the fragrance.

• 4 oz Dusting Powder: A fragranced powder option, perfect for adding a subtle hint of scent while also providing a silky-smooth finish to the skin.

With such a wide range of options available, there's likely something for everyone, whether they prefer a concentrated perfume, a convenient spray, or a luxurious powder.

Fate of the Fragrance:

The discontinuation of Épris perfume by 1997 marked the end of an era for a fragrance that had, at one time, captivated many with its distinctive scent and elegant presentation. Despite its departure from the market, Épris remains a cherished memory for those who experienced its allure. The perfume, with its unique composition and refined packaging, left an indelible mark on its wearers, embodying a sense of grace and sophistication that resonated deeply with its audience.

Épris was not just a fragrance; it was a statement of style and elegance. Its scent, carefully crafted to evoke feelings of romance and enchantment, was complemented by packaging that mirrored its luxurious nature. The perfume's graceful bottles and chic design elements contributed to its appeal, making it a beloved addition to many vanity tables. The experience of wearing Épris was as much about the visual and tactile pleasure of its presentation as it was about the fragrance itself.

Discontinuations in the fragrance industry are commonplace, often driven by shifts in consumer preferences, evolving market trends, or changes in company strategies. Such decisions can be influenced by factors ranging from the introduction of new products to the need to streamline offerings. For many perfume enthusiasts, the discontinuation of a beloved fragrance can evoke a sense of nostalgia, highlighting the emotional connection between a scent and its wearer.

Although Épris is no longer available, its legacy endures through the memories of those who cherished its scent and the elegant packaging it came in. Fragrance enthusiasts often hold onto these memories, celebrating the scents that defined past eras and recalling the experiences associated with them. In this way, the spirit of Épris continues to live on, treasured by those who remember its unique charm and timeless elegance.