Chanel No 5. Eau de Parfum. For Women. 100 ml 3.4 oz fl.

Chanel No. 5: The World’s Most Iconic Perfume.....

Overview

Chanel No. 5 is the first perfume launched by French couturier Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, introduced in 1921 and widely regarded as the most iconic and influential fragrance in history. Its revolutionary use of aldehydes, complex floral composition, and minimalist bottle design set a new standard for luxury perfumery.

History & Inspiration

Launched: May 5, 1921, at Chanel’s boutique in Paris.

Creator: Perfumer Ernest Beaux, at Coco Chanel’s request, designed a scent that was abstract and modern, not just a single floral note.

Inspiration & Naming

Coco Chanel wanted a modern scent that captured the liberated spirit of the 1920s woman—something "artificial" and abstract, not just the essence of a single flower. Presented with several samples, she selected the fifth, naming it Chanel No. 5, a number she considered lucky and significant throughout her life.

Cultural Impact

Chanel No. 5 became synonymous with elegance, femininity, and the liberated spirit of the 1920s, breaking away from the conventions of the time.

Fragrance Profile

Chanel No. 5 is an “aldehydic floral” fragrance, meaning it uses synthetic aldehydes to add sparkle and complexity to a lush bouquet of florals.

Legacy & Evolution

Chanel No. 5 revolutionized perfumery by popularizing aldehydes and the concept of an "abstract" fragrance—a scent that doesn't mimic nature but creates an entirely new olfactory experience. Its formula has evolved over the years to comply with regulations and shifting ingredient availability, but the core character remains unchanged.

Composition & Key Ingredients

Chanel No. 5 is renowned for its innovative use of aldehydes—synthetic molecules that add a sparkling, airy, and slightly soapy effect, giving the fragrance its unique radiance. Its complex bouquet includes:

Top Notes: Aldehydes, bergamot, lemon, neroli, and ylang-ylang.

Heart Notes: May rose, jasmine (especially from Grasse), lily of the valley, and iris.

Base Notes: Vetiver, sandalwood, vanilla, amber, and tonka bean.

This multi-layered blend creates a scent that is elegant, sophisticated, and timeless—neither overtly floral nor heavy, but perfectly balanced.

Summary:

Chanel No. 5 is a pioneering, aldehydic-floral fragrance that blends over 80 ingredients into a sophisticated, abstract bouquet. It remains a benchmark of elegance, innovation, and timeless style in perfumery.