An Unwritten Signature: Hermes "Terre d'Hermes"

Every man must have a signature scent.

Until recently, mine was Chanel Pour Monsieur, a scent described by the young sales woman as "for old men." Yes, & no. This relatively rare Chanel scent is more complex and earth-toned than most colognes made for men these days. Its for a more mature male whose goal is not to smell of sweet flowers and talc, but rather to express a delicate yet hard edged persona.

I recently decided to change my signature cologne when perusing the men's furnishings department at Nordstrom. I'd found that the Pour Monsieur was reformulated as an Eau de Toilet, instead of its prior, more fragrant incarnation as Eau de Parfum. Dismayed, I decided to try a new men's fragrance by Hermes: Terre d'Hermes.

This scent is similar to the Chanel Pour Monsieur, but with more floral, rosy notes as opposed to a powdery profile. The Terre d'Hermes envelops the floral scents in earthy notes of patchouli and vetiver, with a base of cedary earthiness. To get an idea: imagine standing in a humid, hardwood forest while nosing a bouquet of roses. The earth notes complement the floral aromas, denoting a refined masculinity.

As opposed to the Eau de Toilet, I opted for the Parfum version of the cologne, which is ever more fragrant and concentrated, presenting an undiluted strength and masculinity, fitting its wearer. Though pricier, the 2.5oz Parfum is well worth the $112 asked.

Whichever scent you chose to make your signature, do not seek to merely attract others nor to simply smell pleasant to all. Instead, select a cologne that is reflective of your personality. Preferably one that is rare, adding to your memorable character.

[full stop]