In 1921, the CHANEL N°5 perfume was released in multiple aromatic versions, with its unique scent and bottle design serving as inspiration for skincare products and even jewelry. This timeless and iconic perfume, which transcends time and form, has been transformed into a variety of products in the CHANEL Factory 5 series on its 100th anniversary, subverting traditional concepts with a modern design while continuing the century-old legend of the perfume and echoing the creative aesthetics of Coco Chanel.
With the recent arrival of the CHANEL Factory 5 limited-time perfume factory in Hong Kong, it has become a hot topic in the city, allowing everyone to experience the charm of the legendary scent in a whole new way. The event not only received support from many local celebrities but also attracted the support of Hins Cheung, who appeared at the event as a mysterious guest, serving as a perfume craftsman, much to the delight of his fans.
From singer, music director, to antique collector, design consultant, Hsuan-Tsai has long established a subtle and penetrating relationship with aesthetics in life. In the interview of ZTYLEZ June feature, he shared his aesthetic connection to life, the city, and his own views. He believes that the embodiment of aesthetics can allow things in front of us to penetrate the surroundings, thus learning about oneself, making the accumulation of aesthetic experience meaningful and valuable, just like how Ms. Coco Chanel treats N°5 perfume, seeing it as a scent that can represent women and allow people to linger on it.
CHANEL N°5, as the most timeless fragrance classic in the fashion canon, has always focused on capturing the pulse of the times. What are his thoughts on the centennial variation of N°5? How does the aesthetics of CHANEL N°5 reflect the changes of the times in his eyes? Let us once again listen deeply to his unique insights through this encounter with “Emperor”.
ZTYLEZ: Z; H: Hins Cheung
Z: Can you share your first impression of CHANEL N°5 when you first encountered it?
H: My first bottle of N°5 perfume was purchased in Paris shortly after I started in this industry. After smelling its fragrance, I felt that this perfume is suitable for both men and women. It not only has floral notes, but also includes bergamot, which I really like. Bergamot is also a very important scent element in men’s fragrances. My first impression at that time was that it felt very light, and I think whether at home or at work, if you don’t want to have a heavy cologne scent on you, N°5 perfume is the best choice.
Z: As a perfume with a 100-year history, how would you describe CHANEL N°5?
H: I would describe N°5 as timeless and ever-changing. It will reinterpret the fragrance and spirit of CHANEL in a language suitable for each different era. I know that Coco Chanel was a very spiritual designer, and in the spiritual world, “white” includes all colors in the spectrum. So I think that this time, Factory 5’s simplicity in white is very fitting for the vibrancy of this era.
Z: If you could meet Ms. Coco Chanel today, what would you like to say to her?
H: I will ask her: How should men carry her designs? Because when Coco Chanel was still in charge, CHANEL did not focus too much on menswear designs, but many of Coco Chanel’s design styles evolved from menswear, so I want to know what kind of men she thinks are “good-looking”.
Z: Where would you place CHANEL N°5 in your home? Why?
H: I have N°5 perfume bottles from different eras, and the perfume from the 1940s can still be smelled when opened. Now, N°5 has evolved from just a perfume to a makeup, skincare series, and this time’s Factory 5. It has become a lifestyle, making you want to place N°5 at home. I have also followed this trend and bought a large bottle of perfume to place at the entrance of my home as a welcoming scent.
Z: What are your thoughts on the new packaging for CHANEL Factory 5?
H: I have been to Chanel’s apartment before, where she placed her favorite things everywhere in the room, such as crystal decorations on the table and in the bedroom. She also has the same love for her favorite colors. CHANEL N°5 has become a concept or belief in life, which can be applied to perfume, skincare, and even things related to daily life. This kind of luxury is no longer limited to going out or makeup moments as before, but can be applied to every aspect of life, making it more accessible and widespread. True luxury is something that everyone can enjoy and appreciate.
Z: Finally, you have shared that “William Chan’s aesthetics” will change with the years, what changes do you expect CHANEL N°5 to bring after its 100th anniversary?
H: Although the brand is constantly evolving, the spirit behind it has not changed much, just like Chanel, no matter which era or stage you are born in, you will find your own place. I think this is the charm of the brand and perfume.
Born in an era when perfumers only understood ingredients like citrus, lemon, and orange, Coco Chanel brought more than just a pleasant scent with CHANEL N°5. It represents a revolutionary attitude towards life, where one’s ideas are truly showcased. After a century of evolution, CHANEL N°5 has now become a charm with a century-old heritage. Just as Hsuan said, “True luxury is something that everyone can enjoy and appreciate.” If you want to understand and experience the century-old charm of CHANEL N°5, don’t miss the opportunity to make a reservation to visit the Factory 5 limited edition perfume factory.
CHANEL Factory 5 Limited Edition Perfume Factory
Date: Now until July 23
Location: 8 Queen’s Road Central, Central
Time: (Sunday to Thursday) 10am to 9pm; (Friday to Saturday) 10am to 10pm
Register for appointment: http://www.chanel.com/-factory5pop-up
Learn more: CHANEL
