Hermès Rouge Grenat vs. Rouge H: What's the difference?

The Hermès Rouge Grenat is a deep, rich garnet shade for a bold, statement lip, while the Rouge H is a more classic, vibrant red with warm undertones designed for timeless, everyday elegance. Rouge Grenat leans into dramatic sophistication, perfect for evenings, while Rouge H provides a more versatile, effortlessly chic look that transitions beautifully from day to night.

Here is a detailed comparison to help you choose the right iconic red from Hermès for your makeup collection.

Hermès Rouge Grenat

The Rouge Grenat is for those who appreciate a powerful, sophisticated lip color. It's a deep, jewel-toned garnet that commands attention with its rich pigmentation and incredibly luxurious feel. This shade embodies modern elegance and is perfect for making a memorable impression at formal events or during a special night out.

• What it is: A luxury lipstick with a deep garnet hue, offering a satin finish and intense color payoff.
• Key features: Highly pigmented formula, moisturizing and creamy texture for comfortable wear, long-lasting color.
• Price: Around $90 USD.
• Materials/Construction: Formulated with high-quality ingredients for a smooth glide, encased in Hermès' signature elegant and refillable lipstick case crafted from brushed and polished permabrass metal.
• Sizing/Fit: Standard lipstick size, 3.5 g (0.12 oz).
• Pros: A deep, dramatic statement shade. It feels luxurious and comfortable on the lips. The packaging is a work of art. The rich pigment provides excellent longevity.
• Cons: A high price point demands a commitment. Its bold color is less versatile for casual, everyday wear compared to a classic red. Subject to limited availability.

This lipstick is ideal for anyone seeking a dramatic, elegant lip look with a deep color payoff for evenings, special occasions, or simply to express a bold personal style.

Shop this product: hermes.com/_en/product/rouge-grenat-lipstick

Hermès Rouge H

Rouge H is the quintessence of the Hermès brand in a lipstick: timeless, chic, and effortlessly elegant. This iconic shade is a versatile, vibrant red with a subtle warmth that flatters a wide range of skin tones. It provides a polished look without being overpowering, making it an indispensable part of a sophisticated makeup routine for any occasion.

• What it is: An iconic, classic red lipstick with flattering warm undertones and a comfortable satin finish.
• Key features: Creamy, hydrating formula, rich but wearable color payoff, feels lightweight and comfortable for hours.
• Price: Around $90 - $95 USD.
• Materials/Construction: Uses premium ingredients to ensure a smooth, hydrating feel. Packaged in the same refillable, minimalist metal tube as the Rouge Grenat.
• Sizing/Fit: Standard lipstick size, 3.5 g (0.12 oz).
• Pros: A universally appealing, timeless red. Extremely versatile for both daily wear and formal events. The hydrating formula is very comfortable. The iconic shade and packaging make it a perfect luxury investment piece.
• Cons: High luxury price point. It has a chic, classic feel but lacks the dramatic impact of a deeper shade like Grenat. Often sells out due to its popularity.

Perfect for those who desire a refined, polished red that transitions seamlessly from a business meeting to a dinner date, offering understated glamour.

Shop this product: hermes.com/us/en/product/rouge-h-lipstick

Hermès Rouge Grenat vs. Rouge H Comparison

Shade & Aesthetic

The primary difference lies in their color and the mood they create. Rouge Grenat is a deep garnet, almost like a fine red wine. It’s dramatic, commanding, and overtly luxurious. This shade works especially well for evening wear, autumn and winter seasons, or for anyone whose style leans towards the bold and sophisticated.

In contrast, Rouge H is a classic, vibrant red with a delicate warmth. It’s bright, timeless, and chic. Think Parisian style in a tube - it provides an instant touch of polish to any look without being over the top. It feels effortlessly elegant and is suitable for year-round wear.

Formula & Feel

Both lipsticks share the same exceptional Hermès formula. They glide on smoothly with a satisfying, creamy texture that feels both hydrating and nourishing. Neither feels heavy or drying on the lips. They both have a comfortable satin finish that provides a subtle sheen, making lips look full and healthy.

Because of its deeper pigmentation, Rouge Grenat might leave behind a more noticeable stain as it wears off, potentially giving it a slight edge in perceived longevity, but both formulas are designed for solid wear throughout the day with minimal need for touch-ups.

Versatility

Rouge H is the clear winner in terms of versatility. Its classic red hue is appropriate for almost any setting, from the office to casual weekend outings to formal events. It’s a reliable, go-to shade that complements a wide variety of makeup looks and outfits. If you feel that classic red lipstick is "too much" for daily wear, Rouge H is a beautiful surprise, bringing wearable sophistication.

Rouge Grenat is more of a specialist. While someone with a confident, dramatic style could certainly wear it daily, its deep, intense color is most often associated with evenings, formal gatherings, and special occasions where a bold statement is desired.

Price & Value

Both lipsticks are priced at the peak of the luxury market, typically around $90. The cost is identical or nearly identical, so value doesn't come from price but from usability. The best value is the one you will reach for most often. For a do-it-all red, Rouge H offers more value due to its versatility. For someone who already has a classic red and is looking for a unique, wow-factor shade, Rouge Grenat is an excellent investment.

It's also important to remember the Hermès cases are refillable, an aspect of the luxury experience, once you own the beautiful casing, your subsequent color can be purchased at a reduced price.

Which One Should You Choose?

Both lipsticks deliver on the Hermès promise of quality and luxury, but they suit different style priorities.

Choose the Rouge Grenat if:

• You want to make a bold, sophisticated statement.
• You love deep, dramatic, wine-toned colors.
• You're looking for the perfect lipstick for special events or evening wear.
• Your personal style leans more towards modern drama than classic elegance.

Choose the Rouge H if:

• You're looking for a timeless, goes-with-everything red.
• You want a lipstick that is versatile enough for both professional and personal settings.
• You want to invest in your first truly high-end red and need a foolproof, iconic choice.
• You prefer an effortlessly chic look that enhances your features without being overpowering.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the main difference between Hermès Rouge Grenat and Rouge H?

The main difference is the shade. Rouge Grenat is a deep, dramatic garnet color, perfect for making a bold statement. In contrast, Rouge H is a classic, vibrant red with warm undertones that is more versatile for everyday wear.

Is Rouge H a universally flattering red?

Yes, Rouge H is considered one of the most flattering reds available. Its balanced warmth brightens a wide range of skin tones without pulling too orange or too blue, making it an excellent choice for many.

Are Hermès lipsticks worth the high price?

For many, yes. The price reflects the exceptional quality of the formula, the luxurious and refillable packaging which feels substantial and beautiful, and the prestige of the Hermès brand. It's an experience as much as it is a makeup product.

How long do these lipsticks last on the lips?

Both lipsticks offer good longevity, lasting for several hours without needing a touch-up. The creamy, hydrating formula wears away gracefully, and the highly pigmented shades often leave a slight stain, extending the look of the color.

Is the Hermès lipstick case refillable?

Yes, the metal lipstick cases are designed to be kept and reused. Refills can be purchased separately, allowing you to try different shades within the same beautiful packaging at a slightly reduced cost.

What is the finish of Hermès Rouge lipsticks?

Both Rouge Grenat and Rouge H are part of the brand's satin finish line. This provides a rich, creamy color with a subtle sheen that is neither fully matte nor overly glossy.

Which shade is better for fair skin?

Both shades can work beautifully. Rouge H is a very safe and flattering option that brings life to fair skin tones. Rouge Grenat offers a striking, high-contrast look that is very dramatic and sophisticated on fair skin.

Which shade is better for deeper skin tones?

Both shades are stunning. The depth of Rouge Grenat is exceptionally rich and elegant on deep skin tones, providing a luxurious pop of color. Rouge H offers a classic, vibrant red that stands out beautifully.