A study begun ten years ago that led Creative Director of Hermès Perfumes Christine Nagel to create Barénia. The very first chypre from the Maison has a unique, unexpected composition with sensual nuances. The notes are sincere and smiling, reflecting the woman who decided its fate. Nagel’s desire has always been to tell an engaging, confident story built around a clear concept. The elements that create this essence are all reminiscences of travel and encounters with distant cultures and worlds, sensations experienced over the years, and entirely new emotional tastes. The enthralling allure is a true olfactory surprise. The delicacy of the tallow lily combines with the unexpected wonder of the miraculous fruit, which has remained hidden for many years. The sillage, on the other hand, comes from the wood of the oak bark, while the depth from Asian patchouli. The skin is the perfect place for the olfactory experience of this new fragrance to merge with the person and reveal itself, leaving an imprint of true character, an indelible memory, an irresistible desire. The name Barénia itself is inspired by the carnal aspect of leather. A natural element, craft heritage and emblem of the Maison. The softness with which it is moulded to the simple touch or the enveloping shape it takes on leaning against the skin accompany the audacity of the new fragrance. The encounter that is created is passionate, free and intrepid. The woman who chooses to wear Barénia nothing can stop.
“The Hermès woman is driven by curiosity. Guided by her instincts, her sidesteps are never missteps.”
The codes of Hermès, elegant and timeless, sophisticated and iconic also peep into the image idea that accompanies the perfume. The study starts with the Collier de Chien bracelet inspired by dog collars made in the past. Leather is combined with metal. Irreverent accents assert characters of independence and strength. For the first time, the spirit of the bracelet also inspires the bottle of a perfume. The lines are pure and clean, simple and linear. The metal gives it a precious appearance. The elliptical shape of the glass is in fact embellished with a plate with four convex studs, echoing that of the bracelet. An accessory with a strong character becomes the symbol of a fragrance that will accompany many women throughout their lives. The balance of forces is found in the entire sensory experience. The elements of nature and those of a chic history come together for the occasion in an old-fashioned Milanese setting. The Massimo de Carlo Gallery space at Casa Corbellini-Wassermann is the perfect setting for the presentation of an equally elegant story. The familiar and convivial atmosphere is matched by the relaxed smile of the Maison that welcomes its guests, and the authenticity of Christine Nagel’s sincere words that echo through the thick walls of the Milanese house. A natural elegance. A mysterious encounter. A simple union. A carefree moment.
