hermes travel brush

Hermes – Brushes and blushes

I am quite familiar with Hermes and their pieces. I started visiting their boutique because my friends asked me to check out things for them that were available at the time only where I live. I admit that I was extremely uncomfortable to enter the boutique at the beginning, but then, as time went on, I realized that the people working there were friendly and very passionate about the brand. Obviously, when you talk to passionate people, it becomes much more fun and interesting, I actually have a good time with them.

Today I love to visit the boutique and admire their exquisitely crafted things and the best is to chat with them. Imagine my excitement when I heard they were releasing brushes!!! I thought they were going to be insanely expensive and I was wondering where they were made. I am pretty sure that everyone with a keen interest in high end make-up brushes, is already aware that Hermes released brushes upon this second chapter of their Beauty story.

I don’t think their brushes are expensive, considering it’s HERMES we are talking about. Some brushes in my collection are around 1000$ a piece (please note that I am a crazy devoted collector). The Hermes brush is “only” 100$ -which is still a lot for a brush- but we have to check what we get for our money, I’ll compare it to other similar brushes. We have to keep in mind that the majority of customers who will buy the Hermes brush may not be familiar with the brushes that are handmade in Japan (called “Fude”).

It’s very likely that all Fude lovers will be aware of these Hermes brushes, but not many Hermes lovers will be aware of “Fude”.

About production costs and manufacturing

I am adding some information regarding the manufacturing process in case you are interested, if not, please jump to the “Hermes Blush Brush” section below.

If you are a brush lover and if you have been for quite a while, you have certainly noticed that many brands that were initially manufacturing their brushes in Japan switched -partially or entirely- to produce in France or China for example, most also switched to synthetic. There are many reasons for that. During my very first visits to the manufactures in Japan, I understood that the high production cost was often the primary reason for Companies to leave Japan. When working with Japanese artisans, there are several things to keep in mind:

• scale of production : if the required production quantity is going to be very high, it may not even be feasible to make it by hand and it may not be possible to obtain certain materials and produce them ethically on a large scale.
• design or specific technical limitations when working with handmade techniques (glues, dyes, paints, metals, tools): there are way more limitations than we imagine and the production costs can raise exponentially. Many customers won’t understand those high costs for “just” make-up brushes and therefore, many brands won’t even consider manufacturing a product that is so expensive to produce in the first place.
• availability or higher costs of base components (ferrules, handles, wood): manufacturing on a smaller scale is a good thing but the components are more expensive to obtain (cost per component). Sometimes even too expensive to even consider. At the beginning of my blog I had so many questions for the manufacturers, I was asking myself “why didn’t they chose that instead of this”, well, today I realize that we cannot always have access to what we want, because at such small scale, it’s not even an option.

As I am regularly browsing brushes and brands, specs and prices, I noticed that prices went down for those who opted out of Japan or towards synthetic fibers instead of natural. The prices often went up for those who stayed in Japan, even more for those who kept working with natural bristles. Depending on the route taken, there can be a huge difference in production costs. Sometimes we pay for the brand name rather than for the quality of the components or the craftsmanship behind the brushes.

Synthetic bristles are often machine-made and therefore more consistent; there are less steps in the process, less work -hence less costs- for the Company that sells them, It can be an easier process and using synthetic bristles definitely helps to reduce the manufacturing steps where master skills are key, reduce time spent on each brush, there are less costs and less customer services requests or complaints.

A natural brush has reasons to be more expensive than a synthetic brush, but we have to look at the whole picture, where it was made, how, the components, the scale, the brand.

The Hermes Blush Brush

It’s an angled brush with the following specs:

Total brush length: 170mm Bristles length: 30mm at the longest point Ferrule: brass, 22mm x 11.70 mm Handle: lacquered wood Bristles: goat Manufacturing: France Price: 100$

This brush is Made in France , it costs $100 and it is available not only at the Hermes boutiques, but also at some of the usual beauty resellers, for example Selfridges, Harrods, Bloomingdales, Nordstrom, etc. In Switzerland these brushes can also be purchased at Globus, online or in store.

This means that if you have points or vouchers with those retailers carrying the Hermes beauty items, you may have opportunities to occasionally purchase them at an inferior price, versus what you would pay at the Hermes Boutique.

Description of the brush on the Hermes’ website:

“With its lacquered wooden handle and brushed metal ferrule, the blush brush is an exceptional object with a contemporary design. Its goat hair fibers are hand-assembled by an expert French brush-maker. The blush brush enhances a daily ritual, inviting gentle application to the skin. “

The wooden handle is coated with three layered colors: white, then pink, then black. Hermes confirmed to me that the ferrule was made out of brass metal. Which is better (more expensive) than aluminium in the brush world.

They have some videos on their website that show how to use the brush. The way I use it is that I pick up the product with the shorter side of the brush, place it near the temples and move towards the center of the face. Then depending on the blush I do a type of “V” application like they do on the video.

This brush has an angled shape, it’s shorter on one side and longer on the other, the longest bristle length is 3cm. Technically you can use its sides or the surface at the top for a blush application, or for anything else. After using it for several days in a row, these are my thoughts:

PROS – Great head size – the size is versatile and can be appropriate to be used with blushes or bronzers, not too small, not too big. – Generous splaying of the bristles – good for picking up sheer and pigmented products as it’s not too directional with the placement. – Good brush length – the handle has a good comfortable length.

CONS – Bristle Softness – the bristles are quite rough, uneven and undisciplined which is a sign of a not so great bristle quality. – Application results – compared to other similar brushes, it took more effort to achieve an application that was even and consistent.

It costs 100$, the price tag is neither a pro or a con, but if it was a different brand, this brush would be too expensive for what it is. I am happy with the handle but I was hoping to see better goat bristles on this blush brush, even if they had to increase the price, it would better fit the brand image.

Maybe they did not think it was a necessity to elevate the quality of the bristles and that most customers will find this quality to be absolutely normal. Part of me actually thinks it’s unfair to compare Hermes brushes to the quality of the brushes from Kumano because Hermes are not a Fude (brush) manufacture.

I have a few brushes that were made in France and I don’t remember ever noticing great natural bristles on those particular brushes, maybe the bristle quality of this brush is the best quality available to brush manufacturers in France. Anyway, the brush applies blush and it has a beautiful distinctive handle, but there is room for improvement with regards to the bristles and the results it delivers. When it comes to the application, the bristles are more important than the product that is applied, this is my humble opinion based on my experience.

I went to their boutique and the brushes that was displayed there looked a bit better than mine with regards to the bristle quality but still quite the same quality. It’s important to note that all natural brushes are going to be different, some batches will feel softer than others, some brushes will have a more even and disciplined bundling.

Is it worth getting this brush?

If you are a hardcore Hermes fan, you will want to get it, and you should, because it’s fun to own their very first blush brush. If you are a hardcore brush collector, you need it in your collection….because it’s fun to own their very first face brush. If you are a brush lover who invests in the best quality bristles, you may want to pass on it. If you need very soft brushes, this is probably not for you, try it first if you can. I have a comparison table with several brushes and hopefully it will give you a better idea of the softness of its bristles.

So, I think that for the Hermes customer or for someone who doesn’t really have a collection of brushes, this quality of bristles might be normal. However, for the Fude (brush) lover who knows Kumano or Japanese brushes, this is not going to be the same bristle quality or application experience.

Is this Hermes blush brush a good match for their products?

Hermes blushes have a matte finish, there is a bit of kick-off when applying them with this Hermes brush but that doesn’t bother me. The brush matches the blushes’ level of pigmentation, in the sense that it can build up color if the blushes are on the sheer side, and it can handle the application of a darker blush without being too heavy on the first swipe.

Would a softer or a brush with different bristles deliver a better result?

This Hermes Blush Brush can apply your blush, it’s fine, but I have noticed quite a big difference in the results that this brush provides versus a brush with a higher bristle quality. When using the Hermes brush, I couldn’t exactly predict where the intensity of the application would build up the most, I used the same technique and product but cheek 1 doesn’t effortlessly match cheek 2. This brush doesn’t give me the control I want in order to build the color evenly and exactly where I wish to. I tried several techniques, removing the excess product before applying or leaving it, I tried working on a different prepped canvas (more or less oily) the outcome was similar. It’s like each bristle is doing its thing individually and not working together. Too undisciplined and unpredictable. When the brushes are very dense, this issues is not as noticeable but here it shows as it’s quite airy.

It was tricky to evenly build up the blushes with this brush, I noticed some patchiness and when I tried to fix it with this same brush, it would move or lift my foundation (I have very dry and sensitive skin). So, in my humble opinion and based on my tests, a brush with a medium density and a softer bristle quality will deliver a better result paired with the Hermes blushes.

I enjoyed using the Chikuhodo Z-4, it’s nicely dense and matches well with the Hermes blush formula. I prefer to use either squirrel brushes or very soft goat brushes, but yes, to answer this question, any of the Kumano pictured brushes (Surratt Sculpting, Chikuhodo G-2 or Hakuhodo brushes will deliver a better result.

Softness of the bristles

The softness of this Hermes blush brush is going to be interpreted differently, based on your own experience with brushes and what is currently in your collection. I will share some examples and this should give you a better idea of how the softness ranks.

Please keep in mind that some of the brushes I am showing you here are discontinued. Other brushes pictured here had a goat grade change since I got them, this is why I am sharing the year I purchased mine. I still thought it would be useful to show you these older versions because if you have them in your collection, if you love them or if they didn’t work for you, this comparison can be useful as a reference.

From left to right, the softest on the left to the less soft on the far right. I picked some angled brushes and some brushes that can help as a reference for softness.

Further details on each brush with front and sideways pictures

I have split the brushes mentioned above in two rows, here are the first 8:

Surratt Artistique Sculpting $120 – This brush is bundled with squirrel bristles AND goat, however, the goat bristles in this brush are barely noticeable, this brush feels like a 100% squirrel brush, it could be because mine is from its very first batches but it is very very soft. Comparing it to the Hermes blush brush will not be fair or logical. This Surratt is mentioned here for size and price reference because if you can spend $120 dollars on a brush, this one is a league of its own and my first recommendation of all of the brushes mentioned here.

Hakuhodo G5542 $114 Squirrel/goat – A fantastic brush, it’s a soft mix of bristles but just like with the Surratt, it’s not the same material therefore it’s not fair to compare! It is bigger than the Hermes so it would be difficult to use this Hakuhodo brush for a blush application but I know some of you own it and you can see here how the size compares.

Chikuhodo G-02 Approx $45 Gray squirrel / Sokoho – Very good brush for a good price, I would be surprised if it can keep this price in the future but worth the $45. The Chikuhodo doesn’t splay as much as the Hermes, so it will not cover as much surface as the Hermes during application, however, the application results more even and you have a bit more control on where you want the placement and intensity, which I am lacking with the Hermes.

Hakuhodo J531 $90 Goat – I believe that these “J” series have been renamed to “B”. The goat bristles may have changed. I don’t think Hakuhodo have the same quality of bristles for their white goat brushes as they had in the past so you may not be getting the same softness as before. My brush is from their very first batch and it is likely to be softer than the brush that is currently available on their website.

Hakuhodo J4003 $42 Goat – Close in size to the Hermes but smaller, more precision and control on the placement, softer. This is the type of softness that I was wishing for the Hermes brush.

Kashoen WA Blush Brush Approx $240 – This brush is bundled only with goat bristles, they are excellent quality yet they feel quite thick and substantial. This is also the type of quality that I was envisioning for Hermes because these goat bristles are effective bristles without being undisciplined or coarse. The Kashoen is generously bundled, with a nice density to the body, good airiness and movement yet the bristles remain very disciplined, wash after wash. Only issue I have with Kashoen brushes is the price and I kept having issues with the glue so maybe my brushes were from a batch before their glue changed.

Chikuhodo Takumi T-2 $85 saikoho goat – A gorgeous brush, beautiful handle and soft. Too big for blush application and if you compare it to the Hermes, there is quite a size difference. I find the Hermes blush brush already quite big for blush, it’s ok but on the bigger side for me. The Takumi has a great price and I would recommend you to get it if this is the type of brushes you love. It is saikoho and these bristles might be more difficult to come by in the future.

Hakuhodo S 106 $138 goat – Same brush as the Hakuhodo J531 but different handle, just not quite as soft but I can imagine the batch was different and it explains the little difference in softness. I bought this S106 two years after the J531.

The next 10 brushes:

Hakuhodo S110 Approx $100 – Bundled with goat sokoho bristles, this color of dye is not done anymore by Hakuhodo, I bought mine in 2011 so it has 10 happy years. This discontinued brush is sokoho grade and it feels softer than the Hermes. Today, Hakuhodo still have the S110 but with white goat bristles only, the grade of the bristles is not mentioned on their pages.

Mizuho MB102 Approx $40 Sokoho goat – This brush is a bit less dense than the older Hakuhodo S110 with the black bristles, it is soft enough but not like saikoho if you are familiar with this grade. It is still a good price because I find the bundling really beautiful and even.

Koyudo BP026 $30 – I bought my brush in 2012 so it was quite a while ago, the quality of mine is amazing, I don’t know if the current ones have the same type of bristles in terms of quality. Maybe I should do a post one day comparing brushes that were available 10 years ago and that are still available today just to see how they changed! For $30 this was a great purchase. It is quite dense so for blush, unless the blush is sheer, it may be too intense for the purpose. I use it for contouring as the product I use is not heavily pigmented and works perfectly with this brush. It’s not a substitute for the Hermes in terms of application because this Koyudo is much firmer and directional.

Mac 168SH Short handle – Goat – This brush has been discontinued. I just wanted to show you the size as it’s likely that you have it either with the short or the long handle. My Mac is much softer than the Hermes and it could actually be a substitute for the Hermes, however, the Mac is denser and it is quite decisive with the application, depending on the blush pigmentation, it may not pair well.

RMK Face Colour Brush $45 Goat – This brush feels like sokoho goat bristles, it’s very directional and dense, it will not be a substitute for the Hermes with regards to the application. I use this type of dense directional brush to apply my contour, the shade I use is close to my skintone so a denser brush is going to deliver enough intensity and a good polished application.

Hakuhodo G504 $105 – blue squirrel and horse – It’s a very dense and very directional brush so it’s really not like the Hermes which splays out so much more. The G504 is softer than the Hermes, but it has squirrel bristles in the mix and mine is from a very old batch, which were quite good. That said, I am not a fan of this type of mix (squirrel/horse) so I don’t have that many brushes with it. My skin is very sensitive and the horse bristles are too aggressive, specially on eye brushes.

Chanel Powder/Contour – Goat – I think I paid $90 for this brush a long time ago but I cannot remember precisely. It has been discontinued but it was a workhorse at the time, loved it. I think this was the best quality I could find here at the counters (together with some Mac brushes), but then I found out about Kumano …

Hermes Blush Brush $100 Goat – This brush has a lot of potential because the design, shape and size are good, for some of us this brush is not soft enough, for others it will be fine. The handle is distinctively Hermes, happy that it’s not the usual black handle with the silver metal ferrule 🙂

Charlotte Tilbury Blusher $40 – This brush is now actually replaced with synthetic bristles but in the past they used goat bristles. The Hermes brush feels like it contains a better selection of bristles in terms of softness but the bristles are quite similar in color dye and bristle thickness.

Rouge Bunny Rouge 012 $56 (£38) – I cannot find this brush on their website, maybe it has been discontinued but I am not sure. Bought mine a long time ago! It is quite similar to the Charlotte Tilbury goat brush, feels like same thickness and similar bristle color.

The Travel Blush Brush

Description on the Hermes’ website:

“ A travel blush brush, ideal for use on the go. Its metal handle has a white lacquer and brushed gold finish. Its generous, slanted shape follows the contours of the face and applies the perfect amount of powder to the skin. Its synthetic fibers are hardwearing and easy to clean. Made in China “

It’s a small little kabuki style brush, as big -or small- as a lipstick.

Total brush length: 70mm Bristles length: 33mm at the longest point Ferrule: 22.3 mm Handle: the white part feels and sounds like metal Bristles: synthetic Manufacturing: China Price: 50$

The closest synthetic bristles that I find in my collection are the Beautylish 420 series or the Illasmaqua brushes. They have a similar flexibility, thickness and feel to the touch.

The surface at the top of the bristles covers approx 3cm diameter but, if you just gently tap the surface of the brush onto the blush (without rolling or swiping the brush), you will work with a 2cm diameter type of control, that’s good, it allows more versatility and we can use it for blush. I wasn’t expecting to have more control on the placement with this Travel brush versus the Blush brush and also delivers a more smooth and even application.

Now, with regards to what we can do with this brush, I tried many things and I was surprised with the results.

Blush application: all good. When the blush is very pigmented, I only touch the product once, I don’t tap excess off, just directly touch the skin (stipple) where I need the most pigmentation then blend. It doesn’t pack the product heavily, I just stipple whatever is on the brush, then blend. This precision of about 2cm diameter works for me for blush, sufficient control and I can easily build up the application where I need to. If I need more pigmentation or a heavier application, instead of touching the product once, I will do it twice and no need to tap the excess of.

Bronzer application: The best technique for me was the “3”, starting at the forehead, cheeks then jawline. I could work with a variety of formulas, more or less pigmented, I noticed it’s better to pick up just the amount needed (first application is always going to be a test one…) but once you now how much to pick up, the application is quite effortless.

Powder application: I used different finishing powders, from Suqqu (difficult to pick) to more creamy or powdery (Koh Gen Do), it was fine with both types. I wished it had more strength with the buffing but it works and the result is smooth.

For highlighter type of powders, the application with this Travel brush is going to be more tricky and it may result too strong and heavy. It really depends on the product, for example the Hourglass Ambient powders can be applied with this brush, but some better than others.

This brush can do several tasks and it’s soft since these are synthetic bristles, I prefer a brush with natural bristles and with more strength on the bristles, but I can use it and get a satisfying result.

Rose Hermes – Silky Blush Powder – The Rose Blushes

Blushes Made in France, “with a semi-matte finish, embossed with texture resembling silk twill. A fine, silky, long-lasting powder for a luminous, radiant complexion.”

“At once ethereal and compact, its ultra-light, pigmented texture allows color intensity to be tailored as desired, softened or asserted, from the most natural to the most sophisticated finish. This long-lasting powder clings to the skin with the first touch. Rose Hermes Silky Blush can be refilled by simply removing and replacing its powder pan. “

There are 8 shades in total. I bought 5 shades: two in compacts and three refills. Each pan contains 6g of product, they have a fragrance by the way, the pans can be removed from the compact and replaced or switched around. The refills come with a little tool to push the blush pan out. A glue residue with a “sticky-creamy” consistency remains at the bottom of the pan. It is not a big deal, however, there are more luxurious ways to do this. My preferred way would be a magnet at the base of the compact – but that would add weight to the compact and Hermes is promoting the lightness of the compact.

The blush with the compact costs 77$ and the refill only costs 48$.

These are the shades I got and their Hermes description:

19 Rose Abricot : A velvety orange pink, like a ripe apricot in a ray of sunlight. 23 Rose Blush : A fresh pink blended with coral, for a healthy glow. 45 Rose Ombré, A subtle, celestial pink in chiaroscuro, between shade and color. 49 Rose Tan. A lightly tanned and golden pink, like skin warmed by the sun. 61 Rose Feu. Purple hibiscus, fiery, intense, illuminated with a hint of carmine.

I have used these blushes in the past days and I cannot emphasize enough the fact that it’s important to use the right tools to obtain the most beautiful application, this formula, paired with the right brush, is very good.

• Good formula: I have noticed that they have a nice blurring effect on the pores, adding a lightweight velvety finish. I think I would love a bronzer and powder with a similar effect.
• Pigmentation: it’s possible to build up the sheer colors and it’s possible to make the darker colors apply in a soft way. The blushes have all a good consistency across them but they are also all the same finish and formula.
• Colors: This is just a personal preference but I don’t think they are so unique. They are beautiful and easy to wear and that’s a good thing. The ones that work the best on my skintone are the Rose Feu, the Rose Blush and the Rose Abricot, if I had to keep only one, it would be Rose Blush.
• Lasting power: I couldn’t try it on other skin types so I can’t speak for how it’s going to wear on a different type of skin and we are all different. On me, it tends to fade unevenly but I admit that I touch my face (which I shouldn’t but I can’t help it) and wearing the face mask is adding friction. This is the kind of formula I don’t use when travelling with my motorbike because of the helmet, it would wipe the product off quite quickly. I like the look of these blushes and I love the finish but when they fade, it’s not really happening as evenly as I wished. However, if working the blush with a softer/denser brush, the lasting power and fading results are more even, so I mainly noticed this issue when applying the blushes with the Hermes Blush brush. I love to wear them on a glowy skin, occasionally with some highlighter underneath. A creamy base may also help a bit to retain the color of the blush but, as long as I don’t touch or rub my face like a crazy fool, it holds ok. I know that I am difficult and picky when it comes to the lasting power, that is because I don’t like to do touch ups during the day and when I am wearing these blushes, I just like to check on them and see how it’s going.

I think these are beautiful easy to wear shades with a very good formula, worth checking out but I wouldn’t pick them all because they do not really stand out so much from each other.

I thank you so much for reading this long post, I hope that you found the details that you were looking for and that it was interesting, if you have any questions or if I can help with anything, please do not hesitate to leave me a comment!

Stay safe and happy 🙂

I am here to unleash my passion and talk about brushes, the artisans, discover new brands and take you along with me in this captivating adventure. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Conflict of interest statement: I own this website and write the reviews here, but I am also the owner of Sonia G. In some of my reviews, some Sonia G products may be showcased or compared to products from other manufacturers. In these cases, I do my best to remain objective and only compare certain properties of the brushes. I also give many details about my own brushes on this site or use them to create looks. I sometimes receive free products for review from either their manufacturers or retail companies. Many of the products however remain purchased by myself. In the cases above, you will find a statement at the start of the review stating whether you are reading a review, whether Sonia G products are included and whether products were purchased or donated. Sonia G products are currently exclusively sold by beautylish.com – A commercial relationship therefore exists between the two companies. Sonia G also maintains confidential relationships with certain brush manufacturers.

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Wayne goss – the goss edit, you may also like, traditions series – select 2024, traditions series – the keyaki kakishibu eye set, sonia g brushes – the new year giveaway, holiday restock plans and faqs, the sunset cranes maki-e set, cranes over mount fuji – act 2, fundamental eye series – recommendations, the new fundamentals – the eye set, my trip to japan, a sonia g update – october 2023.

Hi Sonia, Thank you for the much awaited review. Very detailed and analysis of each brushes as always. How does the blush brush compared with Shu Uemura 20 pony hair in terms of softness? Like you, I really like the Rose Blush color, I didn’t know that I would like it when I decided to buy the H blusher, but now I am thinking to get the Rose Abricote.

Hi Sonja. Many thanks for that review. I do have most of your brushes with exception of the Face Pro, Inochige Pro and Master Face for which I am waiting to be restocked. Which of your brushes would be the best tool to apply the Hermes Blush? I watched many reviews, my best friend bought one shade and I tried it on myself. Impressed by the ability to layer and staying power I really do appreciate the quality of the blushes itself. Looking forward to your advice. Thank you so much. Sanella

great review as well, just a little correction— surratt sculpt brush is squirrel/goat blend.

Hi Julie, you are right! Thank you so much for pointing it out and I have updated my comment accordingly! I needed to confirm with Troy himself because mine feels extremely soft and you cannot even feel the goat blend inside it at all! I have 100% squirrel brushes that are mush less soft than this one so I am not sure if mine was from the very first batches but it does feel incredibly soft with the flexibility and feel of a 100% squirrel brush. Thank you!!! take care! <3

What an article! The depth, the passion, the information! Thank you!

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Hermès's New Silky Blush Redefines Luxury

Available in eight shades, these may be the chicest blushes of all time.

Hermès Rose Hermès, Rose Nuit

The Rose Hermès Silky Blush comes in eight shades of easy-to-wear pinks for all skin tones, including a nude, apricot, and coral. The texture is ultra-lightweight, and it applies so naturally you'll wonder where it ends and your skin begins. It's buildable, too, so you can swirl on another layer if you're looking for more than a subtle flush. The finish is semi-matte but still luminous, which is what lends the blush the skin-like quality.

Like the lipsticks, the new Hermès blushes are also refillable and housed in an object d'art designed by Pierre Hardy. Each one costs $78, but the circle of powder on the inside can be easily replaced with a $48 refill. This blush is an experience as much as it is a makeup essential, as each one comes wrapped in the signature little orange box. While it might not carry the same thrill as unwrapping, say, a Birkin, it's as close as many of us will ever come. For that alone, it's a must-have.

In true Hermès fashion, this new blush launch also comes with accessories—two brushes, one regular and one made for travel. The Hermès Blush Brush is $100, made with goat hair, and is handcrafted by "a French brush-maker." The travel version is $51, has a shorter handle, and is made with synthetic (not natural) fibers.

Jenna Rosenstein is the Beauty Director at Harper's BAZAAR across both print and digital. While attending NYU, she held internships at Women’s Wear Daily, Bloomingdale’s, Harper’s BAZAAR, and Allure, the latter of which she parlayed into her first job as the Beauty Assistant. She left Allure three years later as the Senior Beauty Editor. She spent a few months at Refinery29 overseeing branded content in the same title, before finally landing back at BAZAAR to manage all beauty content. When she's not testing every lipstick known to mankind, getting zapped by new lasers, or interviewing experts and celebrities, you can find Rosenstein at home in New Jersey with her son, husband, and black cat named Maddie.

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Hermès Le Voyageur Travel Face Brush

Free Click & Collect over £30

Free delivery over £50

Standard UK delivery within 2 to 5 days

Perfectly portable thanks to its small size, Le voyageur’s angled bristles are perfect for applying all types of powder, Whether to illuminate specific areas or for a more light-diffusing result, the brush transfers just the right quantity of powder to the skin and blends the colour seamlessly over the face.

This compact object with a two-toned handle in brushed and lacquered metal is ideal for carrying with you wherever you go, slipped into its canvas drawstring bag. Its durable and antibacterial synthetic fibres are easy to clean.

Les Pinceaux Hermès Collection: True objets d’art designed by Pierre Hardy, each Hermès Beauty brush comes in one of the house’s signature orange boxes. They now form a collection in their own right, known as Les Pinceaux Hermès.

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Rose Hermès Collection: Blush, Lip Enhancers and Hermès Rouge Lipstick review

My tale begins with a gift card, a serious case of having the blues and desperately needing a pick-me-up, and ends with me firing off an incensed email to Hermès CS. Jump in for the ride! (Obviously, I’ll share my first impressions as well, now that I could wear every product two or three times.) Find the Rose Hermès collection review of blushes, lip enhancers and travel brushes below.

What is it?

Rose Hermès collection review: general info

“The second chapter in the Hermès Beauty story, Rose Hermès is the hue of a sensitive and radiant presence. (…) Rose Hermès Silky Blush and the rosy lip enhancers are refillable objects of beauty.” Hermès

• Eight powder blushes (68€, also comes in refills for 42€ a 6g/0.21 oz.),
• Two powder brushes (one goat hair blush brush $100, sold out right now at the European Hermès site, and a synthetic hair travel brush, 48€),
• A trio of lip balms (64€ a 4g/0.14 oz.).

I also bought one of the three limited edition Rouge Hermès lipsticks from the Spring collection, Rose Oasis (No. 43), with a satin finish. Oh yeah, and then there’s the little pink leather pouch for 3.000€.

The blushes, contrary to the ‘Rose’ in each name, aren’t actually that rosy. They’re also not as light as I had thought at first. Still, I guess there’ll be only two suitable for POC (the two darkest ones). As far as I know, the collection isn’t a limited edition.

Packaging and Presentation

Let us get the tenet of this post out of the way first: you don’t buy luxury makeup because of its quality. It’s possible to buy quality makeup for a much cheaper price. Don’t fool yourself: my bh cosmetics eyeshadow palette is on par with my Natasha Denona ones. My Max Factor blushes are dupes of the incredibly pricey Hourglass ones.

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When I’m buying luxury makeup, I do that for the experience, the allure, and the name. And, for that kind of money, I want an impeccable experience: I want to feel valued as a customer, and I want every step of the process to reflect that.

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Because I wanted to feel the purchase like a gift for myself, I obviously checked the ‘gift wrapping’ option at checkout. While fedex shipping was both free and incredibly quick (I got my order from France, and it arrived the next day), the presentation let much to be desired. I got a simple white cardboard box with a Hermès paper bag. No samples.

Compared to the Chanel eyeshadow Astrid gave me for my birthday last year that arrived impeccably gift-wrapped with samples, this was a rather big let down. (Which I promptly told CS, but, unsurprisingly, I haven’t heard back.)

I’ll detail the individual packaging of the single pieces below.

Rouge Hermès 43 Rose Oasis review

“Rose Oasis, a fiery rose, between fuchsia and magenta. A light-filled satin-finish lipstick with a shimmering glow. Its texture, as fine as it is rich, delivers vibrant, long-lasting color; offering softness and comfort.” Hermès ( US here , EU here )

My impression

Rose Oasis is a deep pink satin pink, filled with silver glitter. The satin finish stretches the truth a bit; I find this to be a proper cream ‘lipstick’ formula, the formula that comes to mind when you think about your mom’s lipsticks. It’s similar to Guerlain Rouge G’s in that.

In the swatches you’ll see that of all my lipsticks that are similar, it’s the one with the weakest pigmentation. It wears well if you don’t eat or drink, it’s comfortable to wear, and it has silver glitter the description did tell me nothing about and that I find both looking cheap and annoying as hell. (You can also feel them as a slight grittiness on your lips.) The colour is wonderful, and I wouldn’t have minded a bit of silver shimmer. But those particles are definitely glitter, and the most superfluous thing since makeup wipes. WHY.

Fragrance and packaging

It has a discernable fragrance that you can smell AND taste. Apparently, it’s sandalwood, arnica and angelica.

The case is wonderful. I dig the beige/yellow combo, and while the lipstick is pleasantly weighty and the magnetic closure closes with a satisfying ‘clack’, you won’t break your back if you’ve this in your bag (Rouge G, looking at you!). Hermès tells me the case is ‘a durable object in lacquered, polished and brushed metal’. It’s refillable, and I’d love to refill it with a colour I actually love.

Hermès Silky Blush Powder 023 Rose Blush review

What is it ?

“A fresh pink blended with coral, for a healthy glow. (…) its ultra-light, pigmented texture allows color intensity to be tailored as desired, softened or asserted, from the most natural to the most sophisticated finish. This long-lasting powder clings to the skin with the first touch.” Hermès ( US here , EU here )

A softly pressed powder (with a bit of kick back if you’re not careful) that swatches lighter than it appears on the skin. It’s fool proof: it applies and blends very easily. Longevity is good – Rose Blush isn’t one of those blushes that disappear into your skin after a few hours.

I’ve tried it with synthetic and natural blushes and found it really uncomplicated and unfussy. I was a bit puzzled by the colour description: for me, Rose Blush isn’t coral, but rather a yellow-leaning peach.

The fragrance is pleasantly light and has notes of sandalwood and green tea. Why blushes need a fragrance is another question. I was rather astonished when I read Chicprofile’s account on IG that she tried to change compacts and pop another refill in and couldn’t, because apparently, they are glued into the compact. Which kind of defeats the concept of refills.

The compact has a magnetised closure and a brushed metal bottom. It feels rather light.

Hermès Travel Brush review

“A travel blush brush, ideal for use on the go. Its metal handle has a white lacquer and brushed gold finish. Its generous, slanted shape follows the contours of the face and applies the perfect amount of powder to the skin. (…) synthetic fibres are hardwearing and easy to clean.” Hermès ( US here , EU sold out right now)

I also own Chanel and Hakuhodo travel brushes that come with their own retractable mechanism and cap, which make them true travel brushes. The little Hermès travel brush doesn’t even come with a pouch.

The synthetic fibres remind me of the MUFE synthetic brushes, which I like. Contrary to those, it’s made in China. I used it with the Hermès blush, and it picks up A LOT of pigment, but is a bit sub par in blending. The travel brush is soft, and very bendy, which would generally suggest a more diffused application.

Hermès Rosy Lip Enhancer in 49 Rose Tan review

“Rose Tan is amber-toned, warm, the imprint of sun on the lips. Its weightless and translucent halo reveals the lips’ natural beauty. With its fine and delicate waxy finish, the rosy lip enhancer melts over the lip, leaving a hint of transparent pink and a matt luminosity. Lips are delicately smoothed with a soft-focus effect. Sesame seed and raspberry seed oils help soften and nourish.” Hermès ( US here , EU here )

I chose the darkest of the three lip balms, and I was right to do so. They’re only slightly tinted. I’ve got rather pigmented lips, and Rose Tan manages to just slightly change my natural lip colour to a cooler, rosy hue. I’ve to admit that this is the Hermès product I love the most: from the brushed brass/pink case to the formula, for me, this is a winner.

The formula feels a bit peculiar: it has a soft, waxy texture that’ll be hell in warmer weather (don’t leave it in your bag!!!). It nevertheless ‘melts’ when it meets your lips, and is definitely moisturising, but beware: it’ll leave a notable waxy film on your lips. You’ll have to swipe a few times to get the colour to build up. The Rosy Lip Enhancer has a slightly sweeter, but still very perfume-y scent.

I wouldn’t call it matte – this is a proper satin finish IMO. (I’d love to compare it to Astrid’s Nars Soft Matte Tinted Lipbalm , but that’ll have to wait until we can meet again.)

The money question – worth it?!

If you compare the products to other luxury brands, you’ll see that they’re not as outrageously priced as it might seem: Hourglass blushes are about as expensive, Chantecaille is pricier and Tom Ford slightly cheaper.

Guerlain Rouge G lipsticks are only a few dollars cheaper, but with a clunky packaging that a lot of people hate. Louboutin and Serge Lutens top Hermès’ lipstick price easily. Other travel brushes are much more thoughtfully and sturdier designed, but match the Hermès price.

None of the products I tried tanked. The quality was definitely there, even if there were components I didn’t like (fragrance, glitter). The whole luxury experience was a big let down, though.

Buy again?!

I’d even be interested in choosing another blush shade if there’ll ever be the possibility for me to swatch them in person. If I ever finish the Lip Enhancer, I’d also choose a new refill. The regular lipsticks, for me, are nothing special.

Again: I own both blushes and lipsticks that perform either similarly or even better. But that is not the question here. All the products definitely have their allure. I like the packaging more than that of other high-end or luxury makeup brands, and they will definitely have their place of pride on my vanity.

Please note that this post is not sponsored in any way. We buy products ourselves, with our own money, and don’t accept exchanging goods or money for reviews. We are completely independent, and our reviews reflect that.

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I’m happy for You that You like the blush and the lip enhancer, is so sad when You splurge and then the products disapoint. Just had a close look at the other two shades from that spring collection, they all have glitter in them. So glad I didn’t buy one, was contemplating buying Corail Aqua.

I agree that the packaging looks standard in presentation and the least they could do is refund you the gift wrapping fee. I still think this purchase would definitely pick me up if I was feeling down. Very pretty colors but I am not spending that much unless I see them in person like you said. At least you received a little bit of France!

Thank you Nancy! One year into the pandemic and I still hate order things unswatched, especially high-end makeup. But the lipsticks are standing on my desk right now and definitely make me smile!

I definitely know now that I have to examine their pics REALLY closely next time I contemplate to order something! Especially as the Frankfurt Boutique doesn’t carry the beauty collection… *eyeroll*

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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7 new architectural treasures of Moscow (PHOTOS)

1. rizhsky (riga) railway station.

Moscow boasts many railway stations , each an architectural masterpiece in its own right. Designed in the neo-Russian style, Rizhsky station resembles an Old Russian tower-chamber with a  kokoshnik -style roof (a decorative arch-like semicircular top) and ornate windows alluding to Art Nouveau. It is the work of architect Stanislav Brzhozovsky, who also created the supremely beautiful modernist Vitebsky railway station in St. Petersburg.

Although Rizhsky station was built in 1899 to connect Moscow with the Baltic countries by rail, it got its modern name only in 1946, having initially been called Vindavsky station after the Latvian port city of Vindava (modern Ventspils), where the line terminated.

Inside, there is practically no architectural overindulgence: the interior is designed in a mixture of Empire and Art Nouveau style. 

2. House with caryatids and griffins

The commercial house of the merchant Kamzolkin on Prospekt Mira street was put up in the late 19th century and reconstructed a few years later after a fire. The architect, Vasily Zagorsky, would go on to build the Moscow Conservatory. On the ground floor was a large trading hall, while the upper two storeys were rented out as residential premises.

The main feature of the house is its ornamental façade, replete with columns, caryatids and mascarons. The creator of this multiplicity of forms was the young sculptor Sergei Konenkov, who would later earn fame as the “Russian Rodin”. 

3. Rogozhsky ambulance station

The building was constructed in 1903 by order of the Moscow City Council in the same fashionable neo-Russian style as Rizhsky Station. The fairy-tale red-brick house was conceived by architect Nikolai Blagoveshchensky, whose work includes a dozen churches, public institutions and commercial buildings.

From 1903 to the 1960s, it housed a clinic that was dubbed “Rogozhskaya ambulatoria” (ambulance station). Later, in the 1970s, already in disrepair and abandoned, the building was renovated as a delicatessen shop and the Museum of Culinary Art, whose doors are still open. 

4. Commercial house with firebirds

The commercial house of E.K. Kalinovskaya is a fine example of late Art Nouveau. The five-storey edifice was built in 1911 as per the design of Ernst Nirnsee, a progressive architect who built many commercial houses in central Moscow, as well as the city’s first “cloud-cutters” (as skyscrapers were called in Russian) — residential buildings more than eight storeys high.

Besides the impressive height, a distinctive feature of this house on 4th Tverskaya-Yamskaya street is the ornately painted ceramic platbands depicting firebirds and fantastical plants by artist Alexander Golovin. The house is decorated with bay windows of various shape and height, imparting an asymmetrical aspect to the façade. The addition of an elevator in the 1990s slightly spoiled its appearance. 

5. House with masks of Hermes on Kuznetsky Most

This house on Kuznetsky Most street is known as the "office building." Since its construction in 1901, all three floors of this Eclectic-style building (designed by architect Mitrofan Arsenyev) have contained shops and offices. Incidentally, this is one of the few buildings to have almost completely retained its original appearance.

The building’s "killer feature" is the façade decorated with "herms" — stone pillars topped by the carved heads of antique women. And sandwiched between the second and third storeys are four roundels with masks of Hermes, whose many roles in Greek mythology include the patron god of trade. There are shops in the building to this day. 

6. Mansion of Zinaida Morozova

This sumptuous estate on Spiridonovka street was a gift from Savva Morozov, a major philanthropist and industrialist, to his wife Zinaida. The house was built by eminent architect Fyodor Shekhtel and blends elements of early Art Nouveau and Neo-Gothic. The interior was designed by artist Mikhail Vrubel.

After her husband’s death, Zinaida sold the mansion to another well-known entrepreneur, Mikhail Ryabushinsky. An avid collector of paintings, Ryabushinsky furnished the house with paintings by great Russian and foreign artists: Karl Bryullov, Valentin Serov, Mikhail Repin, Pierre Renoir, Camille Pissarro, Edgar Degas and many others. After the revolution, he gifted many paintings to the Tretyakov Gallery, and he himself emigrated. In the 1920s, a veritable treasure trove of paintings by great masters was discovered in the house.

In the Soviet era, the building was transferred to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which still uses it for red-carpet receptions. 

7. Wooden house of the merchant  Vinogradov

Built in 1880, this house on 2nd Krutitsky Pereulok street belonged to merchant Dmitry Vinogradov, who also owned the nearby iron foundry. The wooden construction, a rarity in Moscow, is perfectly preserved.

The building is an example of 19th-century wooden architecture with a   kokoshnik -style gable, carved cornice and — another interesting element — dormer windows. The door to the house also features a carved frame. Converted to apartments after the October Revolution of 1917, today it is used as office space.

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