Chanel No. 5 is one of the most iconic fragrances in the world. It was first introduced by the legendary fashion designer, Coco Chanel, in 1921 and has since become a symbol of luxury and sophistication.
But what exactly does Chanel No. 5 smell like? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the scent profile of this timeless fragrance.
The History of Chanel No. 5
Before we dive into the scent of Chanel No. 5, let’s take a quick look at its history.
The fragrance was created by the renowned perfumer Ernest Beaux, who was hired by Coco Chanel to create a perfume that “smells like a woman.” Beaux presented her with several samples, and she ultimately chose sample number five – hence the name “Chanel No. 5.”
The Scent Profile
Chanel No. 5 is classified as a floral-aldehydic fragrance, which means it features floral notes combined with aldehydes – organic compounds that add a clean, soapy aroma to the scent.
Top Notes
The top notes of Chanel No. 5 include neroli – an oil extracted from bitter orange blossoms – along with ylang-ylang and aldehydes. These notes create an initial burst of freshness and brightness.
Heart Notes
The heart or middle notes are where you’ll find the main body of the fragrance. In Chanel No. 5, these notes include jasmine, rose, and lily-of-the-valley – all classic floral scents that are often used in perfumery.
Base Notes
The base notes are what give a fragrance its staying power and depth.
5, these notes include vanilla, vetiver – a grassy plant native to India – and musk. These notes add warmth, sweetness, and sensuality to the scent.
The Overall Impression
So, what does Chanel No. 5 smell like overall?
It’s a complex fragrance that combines floral, citrus, and woody notes to create a scent that is both feminine and sophisticated. The aldehydes give it a clean, soapy quality that sets it apart from other floral fragrances.
Conclusion
Chanel No. 5 is a timeless fragrance that has stood the test of time.
Its unique blend of floral and aldehydic notes creates a scent that is both classic and modern. If you’re looking for a fragrance that exudes luxury and sophistication, you can’t go wrong with Chanel No.