Underrated Friday: Rouge by Hermes
When I was looking for my next Underrated Friday pick, I wasn’t sure if Hermes Rouge would quite fit the category. I can’t ascertain if this is an underrated scent. All I know is that I never smell it on anyone around me, and it doesn’t seem to get much praise on online perfume communities. For being such an exquisite beauty as it is, I feel like it deserves more recognition. I’ve become acquainted with it just recently, mostly by spraying it on blotters in department stores. During our Chicago Sniffage, March sprayed some on her wrist, and I distinctly remember the moment when we were crossing the street, and I stopped in my tracks when I got a whiff of it. Of all the scents March had on that day, this stood out the most, leaving a most gorgeous sillage.
According to Osmoz.com, “the “Rouge Hermès” color, initially designed for leather goods (in 1934) has become a standard color in all domains. This new perfume from Hermès recaptures the rich symbolism of red (a color associated with poison, passion and seduction) and offers us its fragrance”. I can’t say I associate Rouge with passion and seduction. To me it’s an epitome of all things chic and luxurious. It demands a certain attitude, a certain poise that cannot be feigned.
Rouge features the notes of ylang ylang, rose, cedar, sandalwood, Bourbon vanilla, spices, resins, myrrh, and labdanum ciste. Rose and ylang ylang are gorgeously intertwined from top notes to the very drydown. Sandalwood and cedar serve as a backdrop, with just a hint of vanilla. There’s something here that gives the scent a certain kick, a slightly sour note that might be off-putting for many, I imagine. Perhaps it’s a mix of labdanum and spices. The overall effect is buttery, spicy, and warm. It’s slightly reminiscent of Guerlain Chamade but a bit more piquant in character.
Rouge is available at various online discount perfume sites as well as directly from the Hermes store.
Image source: www.parfumdepub.net
22 comments July 21st, 2006