Perfume Review

Chanel N°5 Eau de Parfum: The 100th Anniversary 'Ask For The Moon' Limited Edition - A Collector's Dream or Just a Glimmer?

By James Whitmore ·

Chanel N°5. The name alone conjures images of timeless elegance, groundbreaking perfumery, and a cultural icon that has defined feminine fragrance for a century. Launched in 1921, Ernest Beaux's masterpiece, commissioned by Gabrielle Chanel herself, revolutionized the industry with its abstract floral bouquet and audacious use of aldehydes. It wasn't just a scent; it was a statement, a departure from the heavy, single-note florals of the era, offering complexity and modernity. The N°5 Eau de Parfum, a richer, warmer interpretation of the original EDT, arrived later, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the Chanel fragrance empire. It embodies a sophisticated, confident femininity, a scent that has graced the vanity tables of generations and remains a benchmark in perfumery.

The 'Ask For The Moon' limited edition is a special release commemorating the 100th anniversary of this legendary fragrance. It's positioned as a highly collectible item, designed to appeal to both long-time aficionados and new admirers seeking a piece of olfactory history. While the core scent profile remains true to the Eau de Parfum, the 'Ask For The Moon' edition distinguishes itself through its exquisite presentation, aiming to elevate the experience beyond just the fragrance itself. This special release taps into the enduring legacy of N°5, offering a unique opportunity to own a piece of its centennial celebration, a testament to its unparalleled cultural impact and its consistent presence at the pinnacle of the luxury fragrance market.

The inspiration behind this particular limited edition is as poetic as the fragrance itself. 'Ask For The Moon' evokes a sense of wonder, aspiration, and the unattainable beauty that Chanel has always represented. It plays on the romantic notion of reaching for the stars, a sentiment that aligns perfectly with the timeless allure of N°5. The design of the bottle and packaging often reflects this celestial theme, transforming a familiar object into a piece of art. This edition seeks to capture the magic and mystery of the moon, translating it into a visual and olfactory experience that resonates with the dreamlike quality of the scent. It's about celebrating not just the fragrance, but the enduring mythos and aspirational spirit of the Chanel brand.

Chanel N°5's reputation within the fragrance community is nothing short of legendary. It is revered for its pioneering use of aldehydes, which provide its signature effervescent opening, and its complex blend of floral notes, grounded by a rich, woody base. Its cultural impact is undeniable, appearing in art, film, and literature, becoming synonymous with luxury, sophistication, and French chic. While some modern noses might find it dated or too aldehydic, its historical significance and artistic merit are rarely disputed. The 'Ask For The Moon' edition, by its very nature, is designed to be a collector's item, a trophy for those who appreciate both the scent and the story it tells, adding another layer to its already rich narrative.

The Nose Behind the Scent

The original Chanel N°5 was created by Ernest Beaux. The Eau de Parfum concentration was later refined and popularized by Jacques Polge, Chanel's in-house perfumer from 1978 to 2014. Polge is renowned for his ability to modernize classic structures while preserving brand heritage, and his work on N°5 EDP is celebrated for its richness and warmth.

4.4 Overall
Longevity
4.5
Projection
3.8
Sillage
4.0
$180 - $250 USD for 100ml (Limited Edition)
🌸Spring☀️Summer🍂Fall❄️Winter

Accords

Aldehydic 40%
Floral 30%
Powdery 15%
Woody 10%
Musky 5%

Notes Pyramid

Top
AldehydesNeroliYlang-YlangBergamotLemon
Heart
IrisJasmineRoseLily-of-the-ValleyOrris Root
Base
AmberSandalwoodVetiverMuskCivetVanillaPatchouli

Scent Journey

1
Opening 0-30 min

The opening is a dazzling, effervescent burst of aldehydes, sharp and clean, softened by the bright citrus of bergamot and lemon. Ylang-ylang adds a tropical sweetness, while neroli contributes a fresh floral facet, creating a bracing, abstract introduction.

2
Heart 1-2 hrs

As the aldehydes recede, the heart unfolds into a rich floral bouquet. Powdery iris, creamy jasmine, classic rose, and delicate lily-of-the-valley create an opulent and deeply feminine core. Orris root lends a velvety, slightly earthy texture, enhancing the powdery feel.

3
Drydown 4+ hrs

The base offers a warm, sensual, and enduring foundation with creamy sandalwood, earthy vetiver, and musky warmth from civet. Vanilla and patchouli add depth and a touch of sweetness, while amber provides a resinous glow for a finish of refined elegance and lasting comfort.

Performance Dashboard

⏱️ Longevity 4.5/5

Exceptional longevity, typically lasting 8-12 hours on skin, with base notes persisting even longer.

📢 Projection 3.8/5

Moderate to strong projection, creating a noticeable scent bubble of 2-3 feet for the first few hours without being overwhelming.

💨 Sillage 4.0/5

Excellent sillage, leaving a sophisticated and refined trail that is present and noticeable.

When to Wear

🌸SpringAvoid
☀️SummerAvoid
🍂FallBest
❄️WinterBest
📌 Date nights📌 Evening formal events📌 Cocktail parties💍 Weddings📌 Sophisticated daytime wear (cooler months)

Community Verdict

⭐ Overall
4.4
👃 Scent
4.6
⏱️ Longevity
4.5
💨 Sillage
4.0
💰 Value
3.8
💌 Compliment Factor 4.6/5

Consistently receives compliments for its elegance, complexity, and timeless appeal, often described as 'classy' and 'put-together'.

Pros & Cons

  • ✅ Timeless and iconic scent profile that never goes out of style.
  • ✅ Exceptional longevity, lasting through the day and into the night.
  • ✅ Elegant and sophisticated aura, perfect for making a refined statement.
  • ✅ The aldehydic opening is unique and instantly recognizable.
  • ✅ The limited edition packaging adds significant collector's value and aesthetic appeal.
  • ❌ The aldehydic opening can be polarizing for some noses.
  • ❌ May feel too mature or heavy for younger wearers or very warm climates.
  • ❌ Premium price point, especially for a limited edition.
  • ❌ Can be easily over-applied, leading to an overwhelming scent experience.

Price & Value

$180 - $250 USD for 100ml (Limited Edition)
Luxury (Collector's Item)

“Worth the investment for dedicated collectors and fans of N°5 seeking its exclusive presentation. Standard EDP offers better value for scent experience alone.”

📜 Reformulation History

The 'Ask For The Moon' edition is a special presentation of the current Eau de Parfum formulation. While N°5 has seen subtle reformulations over time due to regulations and ingredient availability, the core DNA remains consistent. Modern versions may be less animalic and have adjusted aldehyde levels compared to vintage formulations.

Who It's For

✅ Ideal For

  • Women aged 30+ who appreciate classic, sophisticated, and timeless fragrances.
  • Individuals with a confident, elegant, and refined personality.
  • Those who view fragrance as an extension of personal style and value artistry in perfumery.

⚠️ Not Recommended For

  • Younger individuals (under 25) who may prefer modern, sweet, or fresh scents.
  • Those sensitive to aldehydes or powdery notes.
  • Individuals seeking a light, casual scent for very warm weather or high-intensity environments.

The Family

Chanel N°5 Eau de Toilette Chanel

A lighter, more citrus-forward version of the original.

Chanel N°5 Parfum (Extrait) Chanel

The most concentrated and richest interpretation, with a more intense powdery and floral profile.

Chanel N°5 L'Eau Chanel

A modern, airy, and fresh interpretation with a focus on citrus and white musk.

Chanel N°5 Eau Premiere Chanel

A softer, more luminous version with a prominent vanilla and almond note.

Explore More

🔍 Similar Fragrances

Guerlain Shalimar Guerlain

Iconic oriental with powdery and vanilla notes, sharing a classic, complex profile.

Dior J'adore EDP Dior

A sophisticated floral bouquet with a radiant quality, offering a more modern take on floral elegance.

Rochas Madame Rochas Rochas

A classic aldehydic floral with a similar effervescent opening and powdery heart.

Estée Lauder White Linen Estée Lauder

Features prominent aldehydes and a clean, crisp floral structure for a fresher aldehydic experience.

💡 Clone Alternatives

Maison Alhambra Woody Oud Maison Alhambra

Some users detect a sophisticated aldehydic-floral facet evoking a classic feel, though not a direct clone.

Milton Lloyd Colour Me Gold Milton Lloyd

Offers a general classic floral-powdery vibe that some find reminiscent of N°5's powdery drydown, albeit simpler.

❤️ You May Also Enjoy

Chanel Coco Eau de Parfum Chanel

For a richer, spicier, more oriental take on Chanel's classic elegance.

Guerlain L'Heure Bleue Guerlain

For those who appreciate a powdery, iris-centric, and melancholic floral beauty.

Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Lancôme

For those who appreciate a sophisticated, albeit sweeter, modern floral.

Christian Dior Miss Dior (Original/Eau de Parfum) Dior

For a classic chypre floral with enduring elegance.

More from Chanel

Chanel Coco Mademoiselle Chanel
Chanel Bleu de Chanel Chanel
Chanel Chance Eau Tendre Chanel
Chanel Gabrielle Essence Chanel

🧪 Layering Ideas

🏆 Final Verdict

The Chanel N°5 Eau de Parfum 'Ask For The Moon' Limited Edition is more than just a fragrance; it's a collectible piece of history. If you are a devoted admirer of Chanel N°5, a collector of rare and beautifully presented fragrances, or someone who cherishes iconic scents with unparalleled heritage, this edition is a must-have. The scent itself is the timeless, elegant Eau de Parfum that has captivated generations, offering a complex aldehydic-floral bouquet with a warm, powdery, and woody drydown. The "Ask For The Moon" packaging transforms the iconic bottle into a celestial work of art, making it a stunning display piece. While the standard EDP provides the same scent experience at a more accessible price, this limited edition offers an elevated, exclusive way to celebrate a century of olfactory legend. It's an investment in artistry, history, and the enduring allure of one of the world's most famous fragrances.

ChanelChanel N°5Limited Edition FragranceNiche PerfumeDesigner FragranceWomen's PerfumeAldehydic FragranceFloral PerfumeCollector's Item