Perfume I Love: Chanel

Coco Chanel, born Gabrielle Bonheur Chanel in 1883, revolutionized the world of fashion with her visionary elegance and minimalist aesthetic. From humble beginnings, she emerged as a pioneering force, challenging traditional norms and introducing timeless classics. Chanel’s innovative designs, like the little black dress and the iconic Chanel suit, transcended eras. Her eponymous brand, founded in 1910, became synonymous with sophistication and chic simplicity. Beyond fashion, Chanel was a trailblazer for women, embracing independence and modernity. Her legacy endures as an influential figure who reshaped the fashion landscape, leaving an indelible mark on style and empowering generations of women. She is an icon as are her fragrances.

Chanel No. 5, an iconic fragrance, is a timeless olfactory masterpiece that epitomizes elegance and sophistication. In 1921, Gabrielle Chanel asked perfumer Ernest Beaux to create “a woman’s perfume, with a woman’s scent.” He presented her with a visionary composition that made unprecedented use of aldehydes. Miss Chanel chose the fifth sample and decided to name it simply N°5. She selected a bottle with a revolutionary design, adorned with a white label and topped with a faceted cabochon.

Its composition is a complex blend of floral and aldehyde notes. The scent opens with top notes of citrus and neroli, followed by a bouquet of jasmine, rose, and ylang-ylang at its heart. Base notes of vetiver and sandalwood provide depth and longevity.

Today, Chanel No. 5 is often described as an old lady's frangrance, but when worn correctly, the fragrance beomes luxurious, with a soft and powdery allure that is sexy and provocative.  It must be worn on pulse points and left for a time--an hour or more--to develop with the wearer's unique chemistry.  Chanel No. 5 is renowned for evoking a sense of femininity and allure.    Its enduring popularity cements it as a symbol of refined taste and enduring glamour.

Chanel Chance perfume, a modern olfactory marvel, radiates a vibrant and youthful spirit. Introduced in 2003, it's a fresh, floral fragrance that captivates with its dynamic and unpredictable character. The scent opens with zesty notes of citrus and hyacinth, leading into a heart of jasmine and pink pepper, creating a harmonious balance between freshness and warmth. The base notes of vetiver, amber, and patchouli lend a subtle sensuality. Chanel Chance is a lively, versatile fragrance that embodies spontaneity and the thrill of embracing serendipitous moments, making it a favorite among those seeking a contemporary and playful signature scent.


Chanel No. 19, a fragrance introduced in 1971, is a sophisticated and assertive olfactory expression. Named after Coco Chanel's birthdate (August 19), it embodies her avant-garde spirit. The scent features a dynamic interplay of green notes, including galbanum and iris, creating a crisp and elegant allure. With a floral heart of iris, jasmine, and rose, it strikes a harmonious balance between boldness and grace. The base notes of vetiver, leather, and oakmoss add depth and longevity. Chanel No. 19 is a captivating and timeless fragrance that captures the essence of modern femininity with a hint of rebellious refinement.