The Hermès flagship boutique on Madison Avenue is the epitome of a luxury boutique, with all the requisite elements: a doorman to greet you, a hushed ambience, a richly furnished interior, and an extremely well dressed clientele. The fragrance counter is stationed between shelves and cases displaying ties, briefcases, and leather-bound appointment books, and nearby spiral staircases lead to upper and lower levels, where customers are examining and — mirabile dictu! — even purchasing scarves and Birkin bags.
Once you are able to focus on the fragrances, you will notice that they are available in a complete range of concentrations, matching body products, and elegant presentation sets…