A small figure waits for you on the steps of the Church of Notre- Dame-de-l’Assomption. But don’t be fooled! Behind her stands the woman who built one of the greatest female empires ever seen: Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. In front of the Church of Notre-Dame-de-l’Assomption, you will begin your journey into the fascinating world of Coco Chanel. A church—a choice far from accidental for Chanel. According to Gabrielle herself, she “died” for the first time at the age of twelve, when her father left her at an abbey in the care of the nuns. From this strict and regimented religious environment, Chanel drew her first inspirations.

In front of the first Chanel boutique, at 21 Rue Cambon, you will discover how Gabrielle, a young woman who was once nobody, gave birth to “Coco,” the persona that would follow her throughout her life. The tour will stop in front of the boutique but will not go inside.

The journey continues next door, in front of 31 Rue Cambon, which became Chanel’s headquarters. Here, you will grasp the full essence of Chanel style, as well as its impact on women’s lives: the liberation of the body, social norms, and its influence on society—a legacy still felt today. In front of the Chanel boutiques, the “Grande Mademoiselle,” as she is nicknamed, will make sure you know your classics! Which Chanel creations revolutionized the history of fashion? How do her designs reflect the designer’s private life? Don’t worry if the little black dress or the “cloche hat” mean nothing to you—Mademoiselle will be delighted to enlighten you. The tour will stop in front of the boutique but will not go inside.

In front of the façade of the Ritz Paris, you will discover the splendor of Place Vendôme, with its luxury boutiques, the ever-present Chanel store, and the famous Ritz Hotel. Gabrielle will, of course, share the story of her iconic perfume, Chanel No. 5, which draws inspiration directly from the very architecture of the square. The tour will stop in front of the Ritz but will not go inside.

Place Vendôme will also reveal the rivalries and little grudges that fashion designers throw right in each other’s faces. Many dream of dethroning Chanel, and many resent seeing the Grande Mademoiselle inserting herself where she has no business. First a hat designer, then a creator of dresses, Chanel revolutionized perfume... and now she turns to jewelry! The jewelers of Place Vendôme would never recover. But Place Vendôme is also where the darker sides of Coco Chanel’s life come to light: her “dark” years, her shadows, and the accusations that continue to fuel debates and controversies. Chanel remains a figure of chiaroscuro, willing to do whatever it takes to succeed... but just how far was she willing to go ?