Great Lady by Evyan c1957

Great Lady by Evyan, launched in 1957, represents a sophisticated evolution in the world of fragrance, crafted by the esteemed Baron Walter Langer von Langendorff, or Dr. Walter Langer, renowned for his creation of the iconic White Shoulders perfume and his leadership of Evyan Perfumes.

The name "Great Lady" was chosen to embody the essence of grace, elegance, and timeless sophistication. In English, "Great Lady" signifies a woman of distinguished stature and refined presence, evoking images of regal poise and aristocratic charm. This title suggests a perfume that celebrates not only beauty but also the commanding, influential aura of a truly remarkable woman.

In the 1950s, "Great Lady" would have resonated deeply with women of the time, a period marked by a post-war renaissance in luxury and fashion. The name aligns with the era’s fascination with grandeur and opulence, reflecting societal aspirations and the desire for sophistication. Women in this period were embracing bold, glamorous styles, and a perfume named "Great Lady" would have complemented their refined tastes and aspirations.

c1967 ad

The fragrance itself, a rich and heavy oriental, was distinctive in its composition. Featuring soapy aldehydes at the top, it provided a fresh and clean introduction. This was followed by a heart of opulent florals, including jasmine and rose, which contributed to its luxurious and sophisticated character. The base, characterized by smoky, animalic notes such as civet and sandalwood, offered a deep and lasting impact, setting it apart from many contemporary fragrances which often emphasized lighter or more citrusy notes.

At the time, "Great Lady" was a reflection of the broader trends in perfumery, which included a growing appreciation for complex, heavy orientals. While it followed the trend of rich, opulent scents, its specific blend of aldehydes and a smoky, animalic base highlighted its uniqueness, ensuring it stood out in the crowded perfume market of the 1950s.

Fragrance Composition:

So what does it smell like? It is a rich and heavy, long lasting oriental perfume with soapy aldehydes, opulent florals and a smoky, animalic base.

• Top notes: aldehydes, bergamot, lemon
• Middle notes: ylang ylang, tuberose, Bulgarian rose, orris, jasmine, lily of the valley, spices
• Base notes: frankincense, musk, amber, oakmoss, sandalwood, patchouli, civet

Beauty as a career, 1969:

"GREAT LADY is for the cosmopolitan woman, assured, sophisticated — a bouquet of multicolor flowers with a touch of oriental spicing."

 

Scent Profile:

Great Lady opens with a burst of aldehydes, which envelops the senses in a bright, soapy freshness. Imagine the crisp, clean scent of freshly laundered linens, imbued with an invigorating sparkle that almost seems to fizz on the skin. This initial impression is accentuated by the bergamot, which adds a zesty, citrusy tang, akin to a fresh lemon peel being gently squeezed. The lemon note enhances this citrusy brightness, offering a sharp and invigorating scent that mingles effortlessly with the aldehydes, creating a vibrant and uplifting top layer.

As the fragrance evolves, the heart reveals its true complexity. The ylang ylang brings an exotic, creamy floral richness, reminiscent of tropical gardens in full bloom. It is joined by the lush, opulent aroma of tuberose, which adds a sensual, slightly sweet, and intoxicating floral note. The Bulgarian rose introduces a deep, velvety floral depth, with a hint of honeyed sweetness that complements the richness of the tuberose. Orris lends a powdery, slightly woody nuance, which adds a sophisticated and velvety texture to the floral bouquet. Jasmine infuses the composition with its warm, heady fragrance, enhancing the floral harmony with its rich, seductive quality. The lily of the valley introduces a delicate, green freshness that brightens the heart notes, while subtle spices provide an intriguing complexity, adding a hint of warmth and depth to the floral blend.

The base notes of Great Lady create a deep, enduring foundation that grounds the fragrance in a luxurious, oriental richness. The frankincense offers a smoky, resinous aroma that adds a mystical and meditative quality, while musk imparts a sensual, animalic warmth that lingers on the skin. Amber contributes a golden, warm, and slightly sweet resinous note, enhancing the fragrance's overall richness. Oakmoss introduces a woody, earthy element, providing an almost forest-like depth and grounding the fragrance. Sandalwood adds a creamy, smooth woodiness, enriching the base with its soft, exotic warmth. Patchouli imparts a rich, earthy aroma with a hint of sweetness, creating a complex and enduring base. Finally, civet offers a strong, animalic undertone, adding a provocative edge that enhances the overall sensuality and longevity of the perfume.

 

Product Line:

Great Lady by Evyan was introduced in 1957 with a luxurious array of products to cater to diverse preferences and needs. The perfume was available in several forms, including parfum, cologne, and a satinglide lotion. Each product was crafted to provide a unique way to experience the fragrance, ensuring that its opulent scent could be enjoyed in different contexts.

The parfum, the most concentrated form, offered the richest and most enduring experience of Great Lady, making it ideal for special occasions or for those who preferred a more intense fragrance. The cologne, lighter and more refreshing, was perfect for daily wear, allowing its elegant notes to be enjoyed in a subtler manner. Additionally, the satinglide lotion provided a luxurious way to indulge in the fragrance while moisturizing the skin, combining beauty and skincare in one product.

At the time of its launch, Great Lady was priced at $20 per ounce for the parfum. According to an inflation calculator, this was equal about $227.93 in 2024's money. This cost reflected its premium status and the luxurious experience it promised, aligning with the high-end market positioning of Evyan's offerings. The price point underscored the perfume's exclusivity and the value placed on its sophisticated, oriental composition.

Bottles:

Fate of the Fragrance:

Great Lady, the opulent oriental fragrance from Evyan, was eventually discontinued, though the exact date remains unclear. Despite this, the perfume’s allure and popularity persisted long after its initial release. As of 1988, Great Lady was still available, reflecting its enduring charm and the lasting impact it had on its devoted following. Its continued presence in the market attested to the timeless appeal and quality of this remarkable scent.