Beauty Ahead of Time: Le Jardin N° 1 de CHANEL á Paris

Nel-Olivia Waga
June 9, 2022

“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!

 

 

 

HER/etiquette

Founded in 2014 and reimagined in 2019 by Nel-Olivia Waga, HER/etiquette is an international blog rooted in Zurich, and shaped by conscious luxury. It explores global trends and everyday rituals across art, longevity, wellness, innovation, beauty, and design, highlighting brands and individuals who bring meaning and creative solutions to modern living.

Nel-Olivia Waga is the Founder & Publisher of HER/etiquette. She is a Brand Consultant, Author, and Entrepreneur. Her work regularly appears in her FORBES column. She is also the founder of YMPACT LAB, a consultancy that develops innovative concepts for global brands with a focus on purpose and impact.

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#ConsciousLuxury is the theme of HER ETIQUETTE. We spotlight pioneers who rethink excellence through transparency, intention, and care for both people and planet. Each story opens a window into what drives meaningful change, whether it’s a new perspective, a responsible approach, or a quiet detail that speaks volumes. It’s our way of inviting more depth into the way we experience modern life.

 

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CONSCIOUS LUXUR

#ConsciousLuxury is the theme of HER ETIQUETTE. We spotlight pioneers who rethink excellence through transparency, intention, and care for both people and planet. Each story opens a window into what drives meaningful change, whether it’s a new perspective, a responsible approach, or a quiet detail that speaks volumes. It’s our way of inviting more depth into the way we experience modern life.

 

PLANT TREES WITH US

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