100 Years of the Iconic Chanel No. 5

Chanel No.5 Anniversary

This year marks the 100th anniversary of perhaps the most iconic perfume ever, Chanel No. 5.

The beloved scent’s story began in 1920 when famous Russian-French perfumer, Ernest Beaux, brought ten formulas for Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel to choose from for a new perfume. Already the French fashion designer’s favorite number, five would mean even more to her after this legendary moment with Beaux. Chanel’s goal was to launch a perfume that was unlike the typical singular, floral-scented fragrances. The fifth vile was the chosen formula for it was unlike any scent at the time. Thus, Chanel No. 5 was born. Subsequently, the perfume would become the world’s most iconic fragrance for its distinctive smell and packaging. The timeless bottle contains over 80 different scents, with aldehyde being the notorious contribution.

Launching in 1921, Chanel No. 5 has been a high-class favorite eau de parfum for a full century. So in celebration of its unwavering success, CHANEL created a short film, a limited-edition bath and body line (Factory 5), and 123 pieces of N°5 high jewelry all dedicated to Chanel No. 5. Read on and discover!


Chanel No 5 100th Anniversary Celebrations


100 Years of Celebrity

First on the roster of celebratory creations is Celebrity By, an inspiring short film that showcases six different faces of creativity, success, and fame. The film celebrates the centurial impact Chanel No. 5 has had on innovators and creative talent throughout the world.

Actress Marion Cotillard and jookin dancer Lil Buck discuss the inspiring weight that comes with fame. Meanwhile, prima ballerina Marie-Agnes Gillot shares her take on the challenges of relevancy and required strength for fame and recognition. Then, former Vanity editor Graydon Carter and psychologist Laurie Santos speak on pop culture’s role in the revolutionary success of celebrity. Additionally, Chinese writer Hung Huang shines a light on the responsibility that’s coupled with fame. Learn more about the inspiring six-minute film here or watch below.

Factory 5 Limited Edition Collection

Chanel No. 5's anniversary limited-edition line
CHANEL Factory 5 Collection

To mark the 100th anniversary of No 5, Chanel launched FACTORY 5, a limited-edition line of 17 bath and body products. Shower gels, bath tablets, body creams, oils, lotions, and soaps take on a fresh new look. Further enticing Chanel lovers, the simple and quaint black and white packaging inspired by tea tins and paint cans amplify the line’s objective of how “wearing No. 5 transforms everyday life”. So if you want in, shop the collection online in a Virtual Pop-up and at varying boutique locations as the products will only be available for a limited time.


floor screen with brass butterflies by koket

Only The Finest

Chanel's 55.55 anniversary necklace
CHANEL’s 55.55 Necklace

To celebrate Chanel No. 5 and, in the words of Frédéric Grangié, CEO of Chanel Watches & Fine Jewelry, the “act of pure creation”, the brand created a 123 piece collection of N°5 high jewelry. For instance, the design above beautifully exemplifies what the collection holds. In the breathtaking necklace, the iconic Chanel No. 5 bottle design represents the perfume’s quintessential classic minimalism. Certainly making a defining statement, the 55.55-carat necklace (a number chosen in celebration!) is emerald cut, D flawless, and with 42 baguette diamonds. However for those dreaming of wearing this piece, you will have to continue on as the Chanel No. 5’s 100th-anniversary necklace will not be sold, instead, it will reside in Vendôme, Paris starting this month for all who can visit to enjoy.

Words by Caitlin Battle
Featured Image by
Laura Chouette


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