Hermès’ New Perfume is Like the Birkin Bag of Fragrance — But Much More Affordable

When it comes to designer purses, Hermès Birkin bags are considered the creme de la creme. Owning a Birkin may just be the ultimate symbol of wealth, and realistically, a small pool of people get to enjoy the luxury of carrying the coveted bag. It’s easy to assume anything Hermès makes is out of reach. I sure did — until I discovered their new scent, Barenia. With Hermès’ reputation, I assume their perfumes cost a pretty penny, but when I saw the price tag on this gorgeous scent my jaw nearly hit the floor: The Birkin bag of scents costs less than $200!

12 October 2024 Beauty Launches That Are Definitely Worth the Hype

Barenia is the epitome of elegance — from the simplistic bottle to the refined fragrance inside. I have a vast perfume collection (well over 200 bottles), yet I can confidently say I’ve never smelled anything quite like this. This sensual, captivating fragrance beautifully balances three earthy facets: Floral, fruity and woody. Generally, I find that when perfumes divulge into multiple note categories the end result is a little clunky and confusing, though that’s not the case with Barenia.

Get the Hermès Barenia Eau de Parfum for $170 at Nordstrom!

Photo by Mary Honkus, Commerce Writer

This designer scent features four notes: At the top we have the floral whisper of butterfly lily, which has a ginger-like aroma offering a touch of spice. This unique flower intertwines with miracle berry — a robust red berry — to produce a juicy, mouth-watering brightness. Finally, as the scent dries down, a combination of warm patchouli and oakwood give this a glowing warmth that’s earthy, musky and grounding.

For the most part, I’m not a fan of designer perfumes. I find that most of them smell too pedestrian and have poor longevity. Barenia is the rare diamond — or should I say Birkin Bag — of its peers. I catch whiffs of this perfume hours after spritzing. I also haven’t come across a single person in my circle that regularly wears the perfume, making it feel that much more exclusive.

Shoppers who have fallen in love with it have discovered a lifelong signature. “This is a gorgeous, long lasting scent that will get you compliments wherever you go,” one reviewer writes. “The undertones of patchouli are so warm and wonderful. This makes me feel both playful and timeless.”

Even those who aren’t necessarily fans of perfume will fall in love with this. “I’m not a perfume type person, but this one has me hooked,” another Nordstrom shopper writes. “For me it’s worth every penny. The scent and this perfume is exceptional. Its fragrance lasts all day and still smells fresh and not overpowering.”

If you’ve ever dreamed of owning a Birkin, why not start with Hermès Barenia Eau de Parfum? After all, it’s just as luxurious for a fraction of the cost. At under $200, the luxury fragrance is the perfect price point to gift to yourself or a loved one ahead of the holidays.

Get the Hermès Barenia Eau de Parfum for $170 at Nordstrom!

Shoppers Say this $30 Perfume Lasts Longer Than Some Designer Scents