Why Is There No Chanel Number 4?

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Have you ever wondered why Chanel, the iconic French fashion brand, skipped the number 4 in their fragrance line? It might seem like a trivial matter, but it is actually rooted in cultural beliefs and superstitions. Let’s explore the reasons behind Chanel’s decision to leave out number 4.

The Number 4 in Asian Culture

In many Asian cultures, including China, Japan, and Korea, the number 4 is associated with bad luck and death. This belief is known as tetraphobia.

The reason for this association comes from the fact that the word for “four” in Chinese and Japanese sounds similar to the word for “death.” As a result, many buildings in Asia don’t have a fourth floor or any room numbers containing the number 4.

Chanel’s Superstitions

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel, the founder of Chanel, was known for her superstitious beliefs. She was reportedly very particular about numbers and had a fondness for certain ones like 5 and 7. However, she also had an aversion to some numbers like 13 and apparently even numbered rooms.

The Birth of Chanel No.5

Legend has it that when Coco Chanel was creating her fragrance line in collaboration with perfumer Ernest Beaux in 1921, she asked him to create six scents – five numbered fragrances (No.1 through No.5) and one with her name on it – Chanel No.6. However, upon smelling the fifth fragrance created by Beaux – now famously known as Chanel No.5 – Coco fell in love with it and decided to make it her signature scent.

The Absence of Chanel No.4

Given Coco’s superstitious beliefs about certain numbers, it’s not surprising that she would skip over number 4 in her fragrance line. Instead of creating Chanel No.4, she went straight to Chanel No.5, which became a legendary scent and an integral part of the brand’s identity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the reason why Chanel skipped number 4 in their fragrance line is rooted in cultural beliefs and Coco Chanel’s superstitions. While some might view it as a trivial matter, it actually reflects the brand’s attention to detail and commitment to its founder’s legacy.

5 Related Question Answers Found

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