STEVENSTYLE: March 2010

When Thierry Hermès founded his eponymous workshop back in 1837, its primary function was to bring fine craftsmanship to saddlemaking. One hundred and seventy-plus years and a number of brand extensions later, the notion of beautifying the journey—be it physical, mental, or spiritual—has remained at the heart of the label and has inspired its latest fragrance endeavor, Voyage d’Hermès. This time around, the company’s in-house perfumer, Jean-Claude Ellena (of Terre d’Hermès fame, a favorite of Marc Jacobs and nearly every stylish man the world over), took his cues from the abstract idea of the journey not yet taken. The result is a fresh, woodsy unisex scent that’s actually very appealing on both men and women. Notes of angelica and juniper berry provide the crisp factor while cedar, sandalwood, and white musk inject a touch of gentle warmth. Then there’s the bottle, which could lure you to the counter on its own. Designed by Philippe Mouquet, the glass flacon swivels in an aluminum frame that’s constructed with the contours of a riding stirrup in mind to really hammer home the idea of saddling up and heading west, or wherever your whims may take you.