“How do you feel and what do you smell right now?” CHANEL’s exhibition guide asked. I felt uplifted, light and energized. “It smells healthy and harmonious.” I said. “Et voila. This is exactly, what N° 1 de CHANEL is all about!” he replied.

I’ve been invited to Paris by CHANEL to discover their latest, most sustainable and 96% natural beauty range: N° 1 de CHANEL. During this year’s Jardins, Jardin aux Tuileries CHANEL hosted a special exhibition to celebrate the heritage of the camellia flower.

A precious piece of both the CHANEL open-sky laboratory devoted to camellias and the 70 hectares of camellias grown in Gaujacq, a village in Southwest France, this greenhouse-garden will offer, through guided tours, the chance to discover this plant’s hidden treasures, particularly those of Camellia japonica ‘The Czar’, whose revitalizing properties are at the core of the N°1 DE CHANEL beauty range.

In the first greenhouse, I enjoyed an immersive experience during which I was able to discover the unparalleled beauty of this flower, which is distinct in that it blossoms in the cold of winter, defying nature’s harsh conditions.

The visit continued outside of the greenhouse, on a course whose topography evokes the rolling hills of Gaujacq, where are grown various camellia species: Camellia japonica ‘Alba plena’, Camellia sinensis, Camellia oleifera and Camellia japonica ‘The Czar’, among others.

Here I learned about the rich history of this plant, the diverse species within the genus, and the phytochemical treasures they contain, as well as the commitments that CHANEL has made to preserving and cultivating them according to the principles of regenerative agriculture (agroforestry).

 

In the second greenhouse, all forms and functions of the camellia were showcased: camellia oil, camellia water, camellia wax, camellia seed shells. I discovered how sustainable this range is. Not only are the seed shells implemented in the (re-usable and re-fillable packaging) to avoid waste. Also, all products of this range are made from 96% natural ingredients, which is non-toxic and so good for our skin. The Eau de Perfume can for example be worn as body spray, but also be inhaled (as an essential oil) for an energy lift during the day. I saw & smelled this and thought, this is SO ME! A range, that is 100% aligned with my values – and senses!

The visit concludes with the discovery of the cosmetic benefits of this plant, which has yet to reveal all of its secrets. I can’t wait to follow the journey of N°1 DE CHANEL – and discover what’s next! Stay tuned!

Merci CHANEL!