Hermès

Carine Roitfeld finds that when shopping for gifts, Hermès is sure to be the best value. As she says whether the gift is, "A perfume, a tie or more... It's always beautiful and chic. And the window displays of the 24 Faubourg are really worth the detour." Further, when she was interviewed by Alena Doletskaya for the December issue of Vogue Russia, Carine mentioned that if she wants a good handbag for herself, she knows that the leather goods produced by Hermès will last for many years. She considers this quality the very DNA of the brand.

As you know, I attempt to follow in the footsteps of the great goddess of high fashion and this holiday season was no different. My beau received Ambre Narguile from the house's Hermessence Collection, delightfully packaged in signature Hermès perfection: crisp orange paper, festooned in brown grosgrain ribbon imprinted in white, unmistakably luxurious, assuredly Hermès. The box looked regal beneath the tree. He and I both love the rich warmth of this scent, sweet with smoky and spicy undertones—utterly irresistible. Ambre Narguile was created by Hermès nose Jean-Claude Ellena in 2004 and is meant to evoke cashmere; the notes featured include benzoin, caramel, cinnamon, coumarine, honey, labdanum, musk, rum, sesame seed, tonka bean, vanilla, and white orchid. As one critic precisely warns, it renders you mouthwatering.

Hermès' extraordinary silk scarves and ties make equally welcome gifts. If you are interested in the silkier side of the house, note this forthcoming book titled The Hermès Scarf: History & Mystique due to publish in April. The author explores the history of this classic luxury item, the treasured square of silk adored and shared by families and collectors since its debut in 1937. Perhaps you are in the market for the fine leather goods for which Hermès is known, either for yourself or for a loved one. Whatever the gift you seek, the House of Hermès is never afraid to take a fresh and frequently witty approach to its own heritage; combined with its reputation for enduring quality, this is one luxury brand that is worth your investment.

Hermès packaging photo courtesy of The PurseBlog. Ambre Narguile image courtesy of Hermès.

Comments

[Mike]

Thank you again for the fragrance, mi amour.

[kellina]

Mon plaisir, darling Michel. Je t'aime.