N5 by Chanel is one of the most iconic fragrances in the world. It was created in 1921 by the legendary French fashion designer Coco Chanel and has since become a timeless classic that’s beloved by women all over the globe.
But what exactly does N5 smell like? Let’s take a closer look.
The History of N5
Before we dive into the scent profile of N5, let’s first understand its history. Coco Chanel wanted to create a fragrance that would be “a woman’s perfume, with a woman’s scent.” She worked with perfumer Ernest Beaux to create a scent that would be unlike anything else on the market at the time.
After multiple rounds of experimentation, Beaux presented Chanel with several different fragrance samples, numbered 1 through 5 and 20 through 24. Chanel chose sample number 5 as her favorite, hence the name N5.
The Scent Profile of N5
So what does N5 actually smell like? It’s hard to describe such an iconic fragrance in words, but here are some key elements:
- Floral: N5 is primarily a floral fragrance, with notes of jasmine, rose, ylang-ylang, and iris.
- Aldehydic: This refers to a family of synthetic compounds that add a sparkling or effervescent quality to fragrances. Aldehydes are a key component of N5 and give it its signature “champagne” scent.
- Musky: There are also musky undertones to N5 that give it depth and sensuality.
- Citrus: Finally, there are hints of citrus in N5 as well, particularly bergamot and lemon.
The Different Concentrations of N5
It’s worth noting that N5 comes in different concentrations, which can affect the way it smells. Here are the three main concentrations:
- Parfum: This is the most concentrated version of N5 and has the strongest scent. It typically lasts the longest on the skin.
- Eau de Parfum: This is a slightly lighter concentration than parfum, but still packs a punch.
It’s a great option if you want something long-lasting but not quite as intense as parfum.
- Eau de Toilette: This is the lightest concentration of N5 and has a more subtle scent. It’s a good option if you want something fresh and easy to wear.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, N5 by Chanel is a complex fragrance that’s best experienced firsthand. Its floral, aldehydic, musky, and citrusy notes combine to create a scent that’s both sophisticated and timeless. Whether you prefer the parfum, eau de parfum, or eau de toilette version, N5 is sure to make you feel elegant and confident whenever you wear it.