Hermes :: Perfume Houses

Hermes perfumes

Hermès is a Paris-based luxury goods house founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermès. Originally known for their leather saddles, today they are famous for their silk scarves, first introduced in the 1930s, and their luxury leather goods, including the coveted Kelly and Birkin handbags. The firm was run by descendents of Thierry Hermès until 2006; the family still owns a majority share in the company.

Fragrances were introduced in 1951 with Eau d’Hermès, created by perfumer Edmond Roudnitska. Later releases include Caleche (1961), Equipage (1970), Amazone (1974), Eau d’Orange Verte (1979), Parfum d’Hermes (1984), Bel Ami (1986), 24, Faubourg (1995), Rocabar (1998), Hiris (1999), Rouge (2000), Caleche Eau Delicate (2003), Concentre d’Orange Verte (2004), Eau des Merveilles (2004) and Parfum des Merveilles (2005).

Jean-Claude Ellena joined Hermès as the in-house perfumer in 2004.

Les Jardins Hermès

A “garden perfumes” line was introduced in 2003 with Un Jardin en Méditerranée.

Un Jardin Sur Le Nil followed in 2005, Un Jardin Apres La Mousson in 2008, Un Jardin Sur Le Toit in 2011. The series is available in department stores that carry the Hermès line.

Hermessence Collection

Hermès introduced the “Hermessences”, a niche line exclusive to selected Hermès boutiques and to the Hermès online store, in 2004. The original quartet included Ambre Narguile, Rose Ikebana, Vetiver Tonka and Poivre Samarcande.

Subsequent scents in the Hermessence series include Osmanthe Yunnan (2005), Paprika Brasil (2006), Brin de Reglisse (2007), Vanille Galante (2009), Iris Ukiyoé (2010), Santal Massoïa (2011).

The Hermessence fragrances are generally available in 100 ml bottles with leather caps and optional leather holders. They are also sold in mix and match sets of four 15 ml bottles known as “Gift Sets”.