Our take
What does Équipage smell like?
Équipage was Hermès’ first fragrance for men, created by Guy Robert in 1970. The name points to the equestrian world that started the house. Hermès calls it woody and aromatic, which is fair. The opening blends bright marjoram, anise-tinged tarragon and clary sage, with rosewood and bergamot letting in some light. The heart turns spicy. Carnation and cinnamon bring a dry warmth, pine needles drift by, and a little jasmine and lily of the valley soften the whole. The base rests on oakmoss, vetiver and patchouli, rounded by tonka bean and a quiet musk. That milky sandalwood the house mentions gives it a clean-skin feel. Compared with Dior’s Eau Sauvage, which is more lemony and airy, Équipage is muted and more herbal. It smells like a well-kept saddle even though there is no leather note in it.
When to wear it
Ideal at the office with a tweed jacket or heavy cotton shirt. Spray it on the collar, where the herbs stay readable for longer.
It belongs to the Woody, Spicy family. Équipage is one of 47 creations by Hermès in our encyclopedia.
