Scented Wonderland

Held in Paris over the festive season, "Le Grand Numéro de Chanel" was an homage to the Maison's most beloved perfumes.

- Arissa Ha

How does one create an exhibition around something which is only experienced through the sense of smell? That was the challenge that confronted Thomas du Pré de Saint Maur, Head of Global H Creative Resources for Chanel Fragrance, Beauty, Watches and Jewellery. "I thought about the life of Gabrielle Chanel when creating 'Le Grand Numéro de Chanel"," says du Pré de Saint Maur. "Gabrielle Chanel became Coco on stage and she pretty much created the role she would play for the rest of her life. Even when she launched Nº5, it was a performance-it outdated everything at once and took the world by surprise."

With Gabrielle Chanel's dramatic life story in mind, "Le Grand Numéro de Chanel" (which translates to "Grand Numbers by Chanel") was born. Held at the Grand Palais Éphémère from 15 December 2022 to 9 January 2023, it showcased the House's biggest and most iconic fragrance creations: Les Exclusifs de Chanel, Coco Mademoiselle, Bleu de Chanel, Chance and of course, the iconic N°5. The exhibition was an immersive and multi-sensory experience that combined live music, dancing, fashion displays, art installations and a virtual reality room.