Our take
What does Cristalle Eau Verte smell like?
In 2009 Jacques Polge reworked Cristalle, the citrus chypre Chanel had launched in 1974. The new version was called Eau Verte and came out as a concentrated eau de toilette. It opens like a lemon being sliced. Amalfi lemon and bergamot give a sharp, fizzy acidity that some will find slightly synthetic. The heart softens fast. Neroli and jasmine frame a creamy magnolia, which sits at the center of the composition. The honeysuckle accord from the original is still there, though quieter. Where Cristalle leaned on oakmoss, Eau Verte settles on a pale base of white musk and cedar. The chypre structure almost vanishes. Compared with Cristalle Eau de Toilette, it is softer and clearly more modern. It also lasts longer on skin, which was never the older scent's strong point.
When to wear it
Made for summer mornings and office days in a white shirt. Spray it generously because it stays light despite the concentration.
It belongs to the Floral, Green family. Cristalle Eau Verte is one of 45 creations by Chanel in our encyclopedia.
