CHANEL CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE: A Chance Worth Taking
- Leigh Maynard
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read

CHANEL has long held the belief that chance is never mere coincidence. Like its visionary founder, the house celebrates those bold enough to take a leap of faith — those who understand that if we approach chance with conviction and positivity, it ultimately shapes our destiny.
This philosophy is beautifully embodied in CHANEL's newest fragrance: CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE. Capturing the Maison's enduring spirit of optimism, this fragrance is described as a scent of surprise — yet CHANCE EAU SPLANDIDE is no accident. Instead, it results from meticulous craftsmanship and the pursuit of excellence. It is a fragrance for those who confidently cast the dice, embracing the wonder of splendid serendipity.
This enchantment with CHANCE began in 2003 with legendary perfumer Jacques Polge, CHANEL’s In-House Perfumer-Creator, from 1978 to 2014. The original CHANCE — a vibrant orange creation — was followed by three distinct interpretations: the dynamic, effervescent green of CHANCE EAU FRAÎCHE; the soft, romantic pink of CHANCE EAU TENDRE; and the bold, energetic peach of CHANCE EAU VIVE. Each embodies a unique expression of ‘bon chance’ for every personality that believes life is what we make of it.
Today, Olivier Polge continues this legacy with CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE, interpreting this unshakable joie de vivre in a new olfactory language.
"The original idea behind CHANCE was a state of mind that we interpreted in very different styles. Each CHANCE fragrance is unique but expresses the same state of mind. There is no common composition, but something along the lines of a feeling and an emotion that each fragrance expresses— something very lively and very direct." Indeed, this sensibility — effortless, fluid, and unapologetically optimistic—is what each bottle of CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE captures so eloquently.

The latest incarnation, in purple, a complementary and distinctive shade, is described as paradoxical, conveying a magical clarity — invigorating yet grounded. The fragrance opens with lively raspberry, crisp fruits, and violet, unfolding into a heart of rose geranium, with some petals sourced directly from CHANEL's own fields in Grasse. A base of cedar and white musk brings depth and longevity, while a sophisticated touch of iris adds an unexpected touch — sure to enchant those drawn to its refined yet irreverent take on good fortune.
Olivier provides some background on the new fragrance. “For this new interpretation, I wanted to construct [CHANCE’S] characteristic freshness with something innovative, an uncharted accord. I thought of a red fruit accord and the raspberry accord in particular. CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE is distinguished by this accord, which allows a remarkable opening, undoubtedly the fruitiest in the line. That is how we obtain this immediate feeling of comfort, elegance, and a very vivid, sparkling impression. I believe that chance works as a kind of trigger; it can strike you, and you can create your own chance, too. It goes hand in hand with intuition, self-confidence, and a sort of cheerfulness about our surroundings. With CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE, I was aspiring to convey this idea of chance through a bright, direct and energetic freshness. It is a fragrance that seizes you spontaneously, just like chance can be seized.”

Olivier believes each CHANEL fragrance is not aimed at one specific type of person but rather a choice representing individual experiences and emotions, “one that resonates beyond gender and age.” Says Olivier. “Each person has an intimate relationship with the fragrance they wear. The choice of a fragrance is very instinctive. It is an invisible way to cultivate uniqueness, to reveal a facet of yourself or your state of mind. Deciding to wear a specific fragrance can depend on the season, moods and personal desires. A facet of joy and optimism dominates the CHANCE line, and CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE in particular. I enjoy being surprised by the people who wear the fragrances I create. I like to see these creations come to life on the street, sometimes in unexpected ways.”
CHANEL CHANCE EAU SPLENDIDE is a fragrance to be captivated and invigorated by—for those who seize the moment with purpose and belief—those who, like Mademoiselle Chanel herself, understand that destiny is not just a matter of chance but also a matter of mindset and choice, one that is in their own hands, and that begins with the spritz of scent they put on them.
RRP 100ml, £149 Available April 15th, CHANEL CHANCE EAU SPLENDID
is a chance worth taking. Will you take yours?
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