Chasing CAMELLIAS

Ever wonder where the CHANEL Beauty magic happens? Come with us for a rare glimpse inside the Maison’s camellia farm and the open-sky lab in Gaujacgq, France.

- JOAN KONG

The camellias have been a symbol of elegance and beauty within the House of CHANEL since the beginning of time. While records vary when it comes to founder Gabrielle Chanel’s relationship with the flower — some say she was enthralled by a play of the Alexander Dumas novel, La Dame aux Camelias; some say her lover, Boy Capel, gifted her with a bouquet of camellias at the start of their love story; and some say she was inspired by novelist Marcel Proust, who pinned a single camellia to his jackets as a symbol of sophistication and non-conformity — it’s undeniable that camellias are her favourite.

Defined by a distinct appearance that features symmetrical petals and glossy leaves with a velvety feel, the bloom has adorned many of the Maison’s creations, but in the beauty realm, in particular, the influence of the camellia extends beyond aesthetics. An exceptional botanical treasure, almost every single part of the bloom — from the petals and leaves to the seeds and shell — possesses beautifying wonders.

To get an in-depth look at CHANEL Beauty’s pioneering vision of beauty, we were invited for an immersive experience at the place where it all started — Gaujacq, southwestern France, where the camellia conservatory and farm as well as one of its open-sky laboratories are located.

OUR JOURNEY TO GAUJACQ

Before arriving at Gaujacq, we first made a pitstop in Biarritz after touching down in Paris. Situated about four hours away from the City of Light, our journey to the seaside town — and one of the most famous surfing spots in France — was not only scenic but a relaxing one, thanks to the on-board hand massage featuring the CHANEL La Crème Main Texture Riche hand cream.