Chanel No 5 reinvented

T he founding fragrance of Chanel creation, No5 has never ceased to inspire the perfumers of the House. Over the years, each one endeavoured to protect its formula, to master its mechanics, to guarantee the provision of its rare materials, and to understand its revolutionary character. Remaining true to its strong inner nature, they have each tried their hand at the same exercise in style, creating their own interpretation.

Now, in 2016, it is perfumer Olivier Polge’s turn to capture the essence of his time with the creation of No5 L’EAU. A fragrance of the here, now and always.

With the subtle touch of a goldsmith, Olivier Polge strove to create a new balance and an ideal dose of freshness. The way one might examine all the watch making parts of a complication, he dissected the original formula and took hold of each ingredient to understand its true role.

From the very first moment, No5 L’EAU affirms its lightheartedness and transparency. Undoubtedly less abstract than its forebears, the composition radiates citrus like sun-drenched honey. Notes of lemon, mandarin and orange are revealed on the skin and soar Skyward with the aldehydes selected by Olivier Polge.

And then, like a second wind, you can already hear the rustle of flowers. It sounds like the whisper of trembling tulle. Rose melds with oxygenated jasmine and a new fraction of ylang ylang, more modern than ever. You are plunged into the heart of the bouquet with a delectable dizziness that gives the impression of contact with each petal, its velvety touch, its fleshiness, its delicate lace, its changing shape.

And then, behind this floral whirlwind, you can feel a vibration, an unprecedented sense of liveliness. It is the echo of vetiver and cedar, accompanied by soft and cottony musk notes. Never has N”5 been so natural. Never has it been so fresh.