Hermès has introduced its first-ever chypre fragrance, a sophisticated creation by Christine Nagel, the brand’s Creative Director of Perfumes. This new scent is an intriguing blend of unexpected elements, where the delicate butterfly lily mingles with the surprising miracle berry, all anchored by the warmth of oakwood and the depth of patchouli. The fragrance is designed to settle into the skin, revealing a lasting and distinctive signature.
The name Barénia draws from Hermès’ rich heritage, referencing the supple, natural leather that has become synonymous with elegance and strength. Just like the leather it’s named after, this fragrance becomes one with the skin, embodying the spirit of the bold, fearless woman.
And Hermès doesn’t stop at the scent itself — the bottle is as much a statement as the fragrance. Long-time collaborator Philippe Mouquet took inspiration from the house’s iconic Collier de Chien bracelet, a piece first worn by women in the Roaring Twenties to assert their independence. With its sleek elliptical shape, polished metal plate, and distinctive contoured studs, the bottle feels like a modern interpretation of the house’s heritage.
The entire experience is wrapped in an exquisite box with sophisticated graphics. A metallic ellipse interwoven with the Hermès H echoes the bottle’s curves, while bold, fiery-red lettering spells out Barénia. This balance of forces — tradition and modernity, subtlety and strength — tells the story of the fragrance in just a few lines.
For those wanting to extend the indulgence, the Barénia line also includes a body cream and a scented soap, each echoing the signature scent.
Christine Nagel sums it up perfectly: “The Hermès woman is driven by curiosity. Guided by her instincts, her sidesteps are never missteps.” Much like the fragrance itself, she is bold, instinctive, and unapologetically herself — leaving her mark wherever she goes.
Barénia will be available in selected Hermès points of sale worldwide from September 10th, 2024. Discover more at hermes.com.
photography. Nathaniel Goldberg, Hermès
words. Gennaro Costanzo
