Whenever I get to thinking about Hermès fragrances, I always remember why this luxury brand captivates so many.
If someone mentions Hermès, I immediately think of exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance, not to mention those Constance belts that completely took over social media at some point. But, when it comes to their fragrances, they’ve got a unique way of bottling sophistication.
Now, if you’re like me, you’re probably burning to know what the best Hermès perfume is. With offerings like the charming Terre d’Hermes and the fresh Un Jardin en Mediterranee, choosing the best won’t be an easy task.
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Summer Scent
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Best Overall
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Formal Events
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4.5
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4.8
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4.2
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$99.00 ($99.00 / Fl Oz)
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So, What is the Best Hermès Cologne?
The best Hermès cologne is Terre d’Hermes. It stands out because of its unique blend of earthy vetiver and refreshing citrus, as well as being named Fragrance of the Year in 2007.
The scent that lingers and easily reminds you of falling leaves and crisp air.
Terre d’Hermes sums up versatility and sophistication. For alternatives, Bel Ami excels in formal settings, while Un Jardin en Mediterranee is perfect for summer days.
The 5 Best Hermès Colognes For Men in 2024 – Full Reviews
1. Terre d’Hermès – Best for everyday wear
Let’s start this sensory journey with the best of them all: Terre d’Hermes. I can best describe this scent as harmony between the earth and the sky. But, if that doesn’t make sense, let me elaborate.
The fragrance opens with a vibrant burst of citrus, mainly bitter orange, which seamlessly blends into a heart of peppery and flinty notes. This is what sets it apart.
As it settles on the skin, the earthy vetiver base comes through, giving the fragrance a woody, mineral essence. This transition from bright citrus to a deeper, earthier finish is what makes this cologne a real masterpiece.
One thing I, and most people, love about this cologne is how versatile it is, which is why it’s a great option if you’re looking for a signature scent.
The scent that lingers and easily reminds you of falling leaves and crisp air.
| Top notes: | Orange, Grapefruit |
| Middle notes: | Pepper, Pelargonium |
| Base notes: | Vetiver, Cedar, Patchouli |
| Occasion: | Versatile, Any Occasion |
| Longevity: | 8 to 10 Hours |
| Age group: | 25-50 |
| Projection: | Moderate |
| Season: | All Seasons |
| Value for Money: | 4.8 out of 5 |
2. Un Jardin en Mediterranee – Best for summer
Un Jardin en Mediterranee shows that men’s colognes can easily transcend traditional gender boundaries. It’s a fragrance that elegantly blurs the lines, appealing to both women and men with its unisex charm.
A lot of men make the mistake of going for scents that are solely masculine, but this fragrance invites a more inclusive approach.
The first whiff of this cologne gives you a refreshing burst of citrus, immediately making you think of the vibrant aromas of a Mediterranean garden. As it changes, the subtle aquatic and green notes create a sensory experience that’s serene and invigorating. The fig note, in particular, is a standout, offering a unique sweetness that’s not commonly found in men’s colognes.
I’d say it’s perfect for those who love a nice coastal escape and want to do it wearing a scent that’s refreshing.
| Top notes: | Lemon, Bergamot, Mandarin Orange |
| Middle notes: | Orange Blossom, White Nerium Oleander, Fig Leaf |
| Base notes: | Red Cedar, Pistachio, Cypress |
| Occasion: | Daytime, Summer Outings |
| Longevity: | 6 to 7 Hours |
| Age group: | All Ages |
| Projection: | Soft to Moderate |
| Season: | Spring, Summer |
| Value for Money: | 4.5 out of 5 |
3. Bel Ami – Best for formal events
Bel Ami is a classic in the Hermès collection and a scent that says a lot about the wearer’s taste and sophistication. A friend of mine wore this scent to a formal event and boy was he turning heads. It’s a fragrance that commands attention, yet does so with an understated elegance.
On top, it’s got a nice balance of leather and herbs that give it a distinctly masculine tone. As it develops, the warm spices and a hint of smokiness from the vetiver add some much-needed depth and complexity.
The opening notes are balanced out by a dry down that brings in a subtle sweetness, mainly thanks to the inclusion of vanilla. It’s this blend that makes Bel Ami a solid choice for men who appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into luxury scents.
| Top notes: | Leather, Herbs |
| Middle notes: | Spices, Vetiver |
| Base notes: | Vanilla, Amber, Patchouli |
| Occasion: | Formal Events, Evenings |
| Longevity: | 8 to 9 Hours |
| Age group: | 30+ |
| Projection: | Moderate to Strong |
| Season: | Fall, Winter |
| Value for Money: | 4.3 out of 5 |
4. H24 – Best for the office
A lot of men underestimate the value of going into an office or a meeting smelling good, but H24 addresses this with its impeccably clean and invigorating scent.
The fragrance opens with a burst of lively green and citrus notes, instantly awakening the senses, which is why I say it’s perfect for the office. It’s a smell that’s both energizing and sophisticated, making it ideal for the contemporary man on the move.
The heart of the fragrance introduces what I can best describe as a metallic note, a possible nod to the urban landscape in which this scent thrives. As it settles, the woody base notes provide a subtle, enduring warmth, ensuring the freshness lingers throughout the day.
H24 is a relatively new addition to the Hermès collection, having only been released in 2021, but it definitely deserves a spot on this list. Go get yourself a bottle before others catch on and you start smelling it everywhere.
A fresh and modern office fragrance that will exude confidence.
Excellent longevity (10 hours).
Manages to get attention without demanding it.
| Top notes: | Clary Sage, Narcissus |
| Middle notes: | Rosewood, Metallic Notes |
| Base notes: | Sclarene |
| Occasion: | Office, Daily Wear |
| Longevity: | 7 to 8 Hours |
| Age group: | 25-45 |
| Projection: | Moderate |
| Season: | Spring, Summer |
| Value for Money: | 4 out of 5 |
5. Equipage – Best for autumn and winter
Equipage is the definition of a hidden gem. It effortlessly captures the meaning of timeless elegance with a smell that’s a harmonious blend of sophistication and warmth. It’s another scent that’s ideal for the modern-day gent.
The scent opens with a refined mix of spices and herbs, immediately setting a classic tone. This leads to a heart of floral notes that add a touch of unexpected softness that’s very inviting. But, the base of Equipage is where the magic truly happens. It’s got a rich, woody warmth that exudes a sense of comfort and luxury.
Equipage is ideal for those who appreciate the finer things in life and seek a fragrance that complements their sophisticated lifestyle.
| Top notes: | Aldehydes, Spices, Herbs |
| Middle notes: | Floral Notes |
| Base notes: | Sandalwood, Patchouli, Oakmoss |
| Occasion: | Formal, Evening Wear |
| Longevity: | 7 to 9 Hours |
| Age group: | 30+ |
| Projection: | Moderate |
| Season: | Fall, Winter |
| Value for Money: | 4.5 out of 5 |
Factors To Consider When Buying Hermès Colognes
Longevity
We all want a fragrance that’ll stay with us throughout the day, so you can keep turning heads. Hermès colognes don’t struggle when it comes to longevity, if anything they excel in this department. Let’s look at how some of their signature scents fare in terms of longevity:
- Terre d’Hermès: 8 to 10 hours
- Un Jardin en Mediterranee: 6 to 7 hours
- Bel Ami: 8 to 9 hours
- H24: 7 to 8 hours
- Equipage: 7 to 9 hours
As you can see, you can go for a good portion of the day without having to reapply one of these Hermès scents. When you’re investing in a cologne, such is always good to know.
What occasion, or season, are you wearing it for?
Choosing the right cologne for the occasion or season is like choosing the perfect accessory – it completes the look.
For those warm, sunlit days or a stroll along the coast, Un Jardin en Mediterranee is generally your best option. Its light, airy notes capture the essence of a Mediterranean garden, so it’s suitable for spring and summer outings.
When autumn leaves start to fall, reach for Equipage. Its warm, spicy, and woody notes pretty much embody the essence of the season. I would wear it on those crisp, golden afternoons.
Winter calls for the classic warmth of Bel Ami. Its rich blend of leather and spices is what makes it a no-brainer for cold evenings and formal events. It’ll add a layer of sophistication to your winter attire that you might not get with other Hermès colognes.
For the modern man in an urban setting, go with the new kid on the block: H24. Its fresh, contemporary scent profile suits the bustling life of the city, making it a go-to for daily wear. This scent works particularly well in the office, ensuring you smell good without overpowering your colleagues with your scent.
And then there’s the all-rounder, Terre d’Hermès. Whether it’s a casual meet-up or a special occasion, it can do it all. It’s those earthy notes that make it suitable for almost any event, any time of the year.
Where To Buy Hermès Colognes
If it were me, I’d start my quest for Hermès colognes at the source: Hermès’ own boutiques and their official website. Stepping into their stores is sort of a magical experience, where you’re also guaranteed authenticity.
Each Hermès store is a gateway to their exquisite line of fragrances, offering personalized service and the full range of their scents. Just avoid looking at the pricier items on offer, as the numbers can be scary.
For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, you have solid options in the form of Amazon and FragranceX. Amazon offers a broad range of Hermès colognes, often accompanied by enticing deals. FragranceX is another online haven for fragrance enthusiasts, known for its extensive collection and competitive pricing.
If neither of those options works for you, then just head into a department store. Places like Nordstrom and Macy’s not only provide a chance to experience these fragrances firsthand but also often host exclusive releases and special editions.
How To Apply Hermès Colognes
Applying a Hermès cologne, like the iconic Terre d’Hermès, isn’t exactly rocket science but you need to do it tactfully. Plus, given the refined nature of Hermès scents, a little goes a long way. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start clean: Apply your cologne after a shower when your pores are open. This allows the scent to meld seamlessly with your skin.
- Spray strategically: Target pulse points like the wrists, neck, and behind the ears. These warm areas help diffuse the fragrance throughout the day. Two to three sprays are ample. Avoid overdoing it.
- Don’t rub: Resist the urge to rub the cologne into your skin. This can break down the fragrance, altering its profile and longevity.
- Layer up: For a lasting effect, consider using complementary products from the same line as your cologne of choice, like aftershave or body lotion.
FAQs:
Do Hermès perfumes last?
Hermès fragrances are well known for their lasting power, which is comforting to know if you want to make one your signature scent.
However, the longevity of any scent can vary depending on factors like skin type, environment, and the ingredients in a fragrance.
In the case of Hermès, their scents are generally rich in quality ingredients and offer impressive longevity. Terre d’Hermès, for example, is celebrated for its enduring presence.
Is Hermès perfume a luxury brand?
Undoubtedly, Hermès can be considered a luxury perfume brand. Both Hermès fragrances and clothing are synonymous with high-end elegance and quality. Every drop of their perfumes is luxurious, mainly because of the exquisite craftsmanship and distinctive scent profiles.
Which perfume is the most expensive?
At the time of writing, the most expensive perfume globally is Shumukh by Nabeel, priced at a staggering $1.29 million per bottle.
If we’re talking Hermès, then the most expensive perfume is Hermès 24 Faubourg, priced at a whopping $1,500 per ounce. The cheekiness of having prices like that of 24 Faubourg further highlights the brand’s position in the luxury perfume market.
Do note that colognes and perfumes are generally looked at differently in this instance, instead of the terms being used interchangeably. I looked at and covered the most expensive colognes some time back.
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