Hermès 1986 Edp

U ££

Bel Ami

by Jean-Louis Sieuzac

Hermès Bel Ami is an Eau de Parfum launched in 1986, created by Jean-Louis Sieuzac. The fragrance opens with Sage, Cardamom, Bergamot, and Lemon, settles into a heart of Orris, Basil, Jasmine, and Patchouli, and dries down to a base of Coconut, Leather, Vetiver, and Oakmoss.

Our verdict on Bel Ami: Acquired

Hermès Bel Ami is a beast of a fragrance, a true classic leather chypre that commands respect. While recent reformulations don't quite match the beast-mode vintage, the current version is still highly-regarded, projecting an aura of elegant, mature masculinity that's hard to dispute.
  • Confident
  • Sophisticated
  • Classic
  • Bold
  • Luxurious
Bel Ami Eau de Parfum bottle

ScentArt

Profile

Citrus Floral Fruity Green Sweet Warm Woody Earthy Animalic Fresh
Citrus 17%
Floral 14%
Fruity 4%
Green 15%
Sweet 15%
Warm 15%
Woody 16%
Earthy 18%
Animalic 7%
Fresh 16%

Mood Profile

Mood Energising
Calming
Character Playful
Serious
Sentiment Uplifting
Brooding

Performance

Longevity
Long (6-10h)
Projection
Strong
Intensity
Strong

Best Seasons

Best For:
Fall Winter
Also Works:
Spring

A cold-weather scent - best worn in winter and autumn.

Best Occasions

Best For:
Date Formal
Also Works:
Office

Its sophisticated leather and woody accords make it a perfect fit for formal events and dates, signalling class and gravitas. While too heavy for sport, it can be dialled down for office wear, though its strong sillage initially means casual wear might be too much.

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Where to buy

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About

Bel Ami opens with a sharp, zesty burst of citrus and aromatic sage, entwined with warm, spicy cardamom. This invigorating start mellows into a rich, complex heart of earthy patchouli and cedar, spiced with carnation. The true star is the base: a deep, polished leather, softened by a hint of vanilla and coconut, grounded in the dark, mossy scent of vetiver and styrax. It's a journey from bright vitality to profound, leathery elegance.