Coco Chanel vs Chanel No. 5: Which Fragrance Deserves A Spot In Your Perfume Collection? My Honest Review

After trying both, here’s my honest experience comparing the two, which might help you decide which one deserves a spot in your perfume collection.

Coco Chanel vs Chanel No. 5: Which One Should You Choose?

After wearing both fragrances for a few months, I’ve formed some real opinions. Let’s start with Coco Mademoiselle, it blends Mandarin Orange, Turkish Rose, Bergamot, White Musk, and Vanilla, giving it a scent that feels elegant but still fresh. The base notes, such as Tonka Bean and Vetiver, add warmth, making it slightly deeper and more sensual. The rose and bergamot especially stand out, offering a soft floral freshness.

Chanel No. 5, in contrast, leans more towards a classic style. It opens with bright citrus (like lemon and bergamot) mixed with Ylang-Ylang and Neroli, but what gives it character is the hit of aldehydes as it’s bold, clean, and very “signature scent” territory. It’s the kind of perfume that makes an entrance without saying a word.

When it comes to how long the scent lasts, both Coco Mademoiselle and Chanel No. 5 perform well, but Coco Mademoiselle has the edge. Chanel No. 5 stays on for several hours, especially when you use the EDP or Parfum version. It holds its own on skin and fabric, giving off that timeless, powdery elegance that lingers subtly.

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But Coco Mademoiselle? It goes the extra mile. Its strong projection and lasting power mean it stays noticeable for up to seven hours or more, especially on clothes. I once sprayed it on a muffler, tucked it away in my wardrobe, and weeks later, the scent was still there. It’s that long-lasting. It's one of those perfumes that announces its presence gently, but sticks around in the best way. If lasting power matters to you, Coco Mademoiselle is the more reliable choice.

Coco Chanel vs Chanel No. 5: Price And Where To Buy

Both Chanel No. 5 and Coco Mademoiselle come in three size options. Chanel No. 5 is priced at ₹11,950 for 50 ml, ₹16,750 for 100 ml, and ₹26,300 for 200 ml. Coco Mademoiselle is slightly higher, with prices at ₹12,350 for 50 ml, ₹17,300 for 100 ml, and ₹27,100 for 200 ml.

You can purchase both fragrances from the official Chanel website or visit Chanel stores if you prefer trying them out in person.

Coco Chanel vs Chanel No. 5: HZ Rating

If I had to rate both based on overall experience, Coco Mademoiselle easily gets a 5 out of 5 from me; it smells fresh, modern, lasts all day, and gets plenty of compliments. Chanel No. 5, while iconic and elegant, falls slightly short in terms of how long it lasts on my skin, so I’d give it a solid 4 out of 5. Still beautiful, just not as long-wearing as I’d like.

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Coco Chanel vs Chanel No. 5: Pros And Cons

Coco Chanel

Pros:

• Long-lasting (up to 7+ hours)
• Fresh, modern scent with a warm base
• Versatile—works for day and night

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than No. 5
• May feel too familiar if you are after something unique

Chanel No. 5

Pros:

• Iconic, timeless scent
• Great for special occasions and mature tastes

Cons:

• Doesn’t last as long on the skin
• Opening aldehydes can feel overpowering to some
• Not everyone finds it wearable for daily use

Final Verdict

If you are someone who loves a fragrance that feels modern, lasts all day, and turns heads in the best way, Coco Mademoiselle is hands-down the better pick. It’s fresh, feminine, and effortlessly chic, perfect for everyday wear or a special moment.

Chanel No. 5 is more of a classic statement. It carries history, elegance, and that old-world charm, but might not suit everyone’s personal style or skin chemistry.

So, if you want compliments and long wear, go for Coco Mademoiselle. If you are drawn to legacy and luxury, Chanel No. 5 is worth trying once.

Keep reading Herzindagi for more such stories.

Credits: Chanel Instagram