Paris - Venise Chanel 2018

When Coco Chanel traveled from Paris to Venice, she was certainly very agitated, as it was shortly after the accidental death of Arthur Capel. It is said he was the only man she ever truly loved.
Her friend Misia brought her to Venice to distract her, which evidently worked. Here she met, among others, the theater and ballet impresario Diaghilev, and her circle of friends expanded to include some illustrious names from the art and cultural scene of that time.

Unlike this turbulent time in Coco Chanel's life, Paris - Venise, the fragrance dedicated to this journey, is rather reserved, though elegant and noble in typical Chanel DNA. The connection to Venice, or rather Italy, is likely provided by Neroli, which gives the perfume its foundational mood. However, this is somewhat far-fetched, as I almost want to attribute shyness to the scent, but with a bit of patience, a certain sophistication does develop on my skin. I can imagine that the clean creaminess of the perfume does suggest intimacy, but for me, it is too lacking in expressiveness, too bright, yes, I would almost say too feminine, for me to feel comfortable with it.

I am sure that Coco herself would have preferred louder or rather more powerful perfumes. However, the house of Chanel is certainly addressing a customer segment that has been neglected until now. Those who love quiet, harmonious perfumes will surely feel at home with Paris - Venise. I would wear the scent as a companion for a summer now and then if I received it as a gift. But I fear I would simply forget it, as for me, Paris - Venise lacks enough recognition value.