An invitation to all Chanel admirers! In summer 2024 the fashion house introduced a new member of the Gabrielle fragrance family – Gabrielle L'Eau. Created by Chanel's in-house perfumer Olivier Polge, this Eau de Toilette promises a fresh and lively take on the original Gabrielle, aiming to capture the radiant spirit of Coco Chanel.
A lighter, fruitier expression
While the original Chanel Gabrielle EDP is known for its rich floral notes and citrus nuances, L'Eau takes a different direction. It is a lighter, fruitier composition led by sparkling red berries and green notes, which create an invigorating, youthful first impression. The heart stays true to Gabrielle's DNA: a bouquet of white flowers – jasmine, orange blossom, ylang-ylang and the ever-essential tuberose. The Grasse tuberose has been reworked here into a new accord that highlights its greener, more herbal side and adds complexity to the floral core. The base is formed by the classic, elegant notes of white musk and sandalwood.
Read also: the best Chanel perfumes for women and the luxurious charm of jasmine in the world of perfume.
A reformulation or a creative side project?
The arrival of Gabrielle L'Eau has sparked lively discussion among fragrance lovers. Some are excited about a lighter, fresher Gabrielle, especially for wearing in warmer weather. Others expected more originality from Chanel and question the need for a new flanker after Chanel Gabrielle Essence EDP, released in 2019.
Here at the ESSENSA blog, we believe there is room for both points of view. Flankers allow established fashion houses like Chanel to reinterpret popular fragrances. They appeal to a wider audience and can introduce the original scent to an entirely new generation.
Choose the Gabrielle that suits you: you can explore the full Chanel range in the ESSENSA online shop.
Should you try it?
Whether you are a devoted Gabrielle fan or simply curious about new scents, Gabrielle L'Eau is definitely worth trying. If the original Gabrielle feels too intense or its grapefruit note too strong, you may prefer the fruity, lighter profile of L'Eau.
For those who adore the rich floral character of the original, this flanker may not be a breakthrough. Still, it makes a pleasant, refreshing summer choice. Ultimately, the decision depends on your personal fragrance preferences. If you are looking for more Chanel summer scents, also read why women should discover Chanel fragrances in spring and summer.
Will Gabrielle L'Eau become your new favourite? There is only one way to find out!
