In 1921, French-Russian chemist and perfumer Ernest Beaux made the formula of Chanel No. 5. It was the first perfume by French fashion designer Gabrielle ´Coco´ Chanel.
In 2021, the perfume is celebrating its 100th anniversary, and it changed very little since 1921. It is still one of the most popular and iconic perfumes. but it was not always like that.
In the 1980s, the future of Chanel did not look good. In the 17th century, a part of France became a place where farmers grew flowers which some companies used for perfumes. In the 1980s, some farmers sold their land, and other countries grew the flowers. Jasmine was the most important ingredient in Chanel No. 5, and Chanel worried that it would not have enough jasmine for its perfumes.
The company made a deal with the Mul family, and the growing of jasmine could continue. The family still grows enough jasmine for Chanel, and it is the best quality.
Questions:
a) What kind of perfume or scent do you like?
b) Do you always buy the same perfume / deodorant etc. or do you like trying different ones?
c) What is your favourite smell, and why? (not a perfume, or scent maybe!)