It is a historic move for French fashion powerhouse Chanel. Hollywood heartthrob Brad Pitt will take over as the face of their iconic fragrance – Chanel N0 5. A brief statement released by the brand last week said, “Chanel has selected world renowned actor Brad Pitt to be the face of the upcoming advertising campaign for Chanel N0 5.”
Chanel N0 5 was the first fragrance to be launched by Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel. It was created in 1921 by Russian and French perfumer Ernest Beaux, as a special order from Coco Chanel herself. Initially only 100 flacons of Chanel Nº 5 were produced, which she gave away on Christmas (1921) for free to her best clients. However, soon the demand for further supply was such that she decided to launch the perfume officially for sale in her shops in 1922.
Over the years, the scent gained worldwide popularity and iconic stature, and throughout its history, female celebrities have always been the stars of its sexy-yet-luxurious ad campaigns. The women were chosen on the basis of a unique combination of sex appeal, sophistication and eternal beauty. Nicole Kidman, French actress Audrey Tautou and Catherine Deneuve have been previous faces of the brand. The most iconic ambassador of the perfume till date probably has been Marilyn Monroe, who once famously said in an interview that she ‘slept wearing nothing but a splash of the perfume.’
Pitt’s involvement with the brand has fuelled speculation of a new men’s fragrance to be released soon, however Chanel has not yet confirmed the news.