Coco Chanel is one of the most iconic fashion designers of all time. Known for her classic, timeless designs and innovative approach to fashion, Chanel changed the way women dressed and perceived themselves. In addition to her clothing designs, Chanel also created several fragrances that have become classics in the perfume world. But what was Coco Chanel’s first perfume? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the history of Chanel No. 5, the brand’s very first fragrance.
The Creation of Chanel No. 5
Chanel No. 5 was launched in 1921 and quickly became one of the most popular perfumes in the world. The fragrance was created by renowned perfumer Ernest Beaux, who had previously worked for the Russian royal family. Beaux presented ten different fragrance samples to Chanel, each numbered from one to five and from 20 to 24. Chanel was immediately drawn to sample number five, which she declared to be “the one”.
The name Chanel No. 5 came about because it was the fifth sample that Beaux presented to Chanel. It’s also been said that five was Chanel’s lucky number, as she was born on August 19th, which is the fifth day of the month.
The Ingredients of Chanel No. 5
Chanel No. 5 is a floral-aldehydic fragrance, which means that it combines floral notes with aldehydes, which are synthetic compounds that add a clean and soapy quality to a scent. The fragrance features top notes of neroli, bergamot, and aldehydes, followed by a heart of jasmine, rose, and ylang-ylang. The base notes include vanilla, vetiver, sandalwood, and musk.
The inclusion of aldehydes in Chanel No. 5 was groundbreaking at the time of its release, as it was the first fragrance to use this synthetic compound in such a prominent way. Aldehydes give the fragrance a clean and soapy quality, creating a sense of freshness and purity. The inclusion of floral notes like jasmine and rose adds a sensual and feminine quality to the scent, while the base notes provide depth and warmth.
The Success of Chanel No. 5
Chanel No. 5 was an instant success when it was released in 1921. The fragrance appealed to women all over the world, who were drawn to its unique and sophisticated scent. The clean and soapy quality of the aldehydes made it stand out from other fragrances on the market at the time, while the floral and woody notes gave it depth and complexity.
Chanel No. 5 also became associated with some of the most iconic women of the early 20th century. Marilyn Monroe famously said that she wore nothing to bed except for a few drops of Chanel No. 5, while Coco Chanel herself was known to wear the fragrance as her signature scent.
The Evolution of Chanel No. 5
Chanel No. 5 has remained one of the most popular perfumes in the world since its release in 1921. Over the years, the fragrance has undergone several updates and variations, including:
Chanel No. 5 Eau de Parfum:
Released in 1986, this version of Chanel No. 5 is richer and more concentrated than the original fragrance. It features top notes of bergamot, neroli, and ylang-ylang, followed by a heart of jasmine, rose, and iris. The base notes include vanilla, sandalwood, patchouli, and amber.
Chanel No. 5 Eau Premiere:
Released in 2007, this version of Chanel No. 5 is a lighter and fresher take on the classic fragrance. It features top notes of neroli, aldehydes, and ylang-ylang, followed by a heart of jasmine and rose. The base notes include vanilla, sandalwood, and musk.
Chanel No. 5 L’Eau:
Released in 2016, this is the latest addition to the Chanel No. 5 family. It’s a more modern and youthful take on the classic fragrance, with a lighter and fresher scent profile. It features top notes of lemon, mandarin, and orange, followed by a heart of rose, jasmine, and ylang-ylang. The base notes include cedarwood, white musk, and vanilla.
Conclusion
Chanel No. 5 was Coco Chanel’s very first perfume, released in 1921. Created by perfumer Ernest Beaux, the fragrance is a floral-aldehydic scent that combines clean and soapy aldehydes with floral and woody notes. Over the years, Chanel No. 5 has undergone several updates and variations, but it remains one of the most iconic and popular fragrances in the world. Its timeless and sophisticated scent continues to appeal to women
