Perfume is a critical part of my wardrobe all year round. I just don’t feel complete without spritzing on a scent before I leave the house. As a beauty writer, I’ve acquired quite the fragrance collection. I love examining it to choose the perfect one for different occasions—a day at the office; a weeknight dinner with friends; a black-tie celebration. This holiday season I’m ahead of the game, because I’ve already selected my signature scent, and it works for any and all social events on my calendar: GUESS Bella Vita Eau de Parfum.
Why do I love it? Let me count the ways. It’s warm but not heavy, sweet without being cloying, and sultry in a subtle kind of way. In short, it’s as suitable for the season as a sequin dress and a pair of statement earrings.
The scent opens with a juicy and effervescent blend of Italian lemon, cassis, and black cherry, which sets a vivacious, celebratory mood. Once those top notes fade away, Bella Vita melts into its heart: a gorgeous cocktail of heady white florals like jasmine and tuberose. The sensual floral aroma feels as glamorous as the vintage fur coat I practically live in this time of year.
I think it’s the drydown of Bella Vita that makes the fragrance so versatile. Base notes of tonka bean, praline, and a unique, “fluffy” musk bring to mind mouth-watering holiday treats, while the addition of amberwood tempers the sweetness, for a sophisticated and cozy end result.
Another key detail is the glam bottle that houses this liquid gold. The gilded details are inherently festive and the flaçon is perfectly sized for travel, so I don’t have to leave Bella Vita behind during my holiday adventures. And, of course, it’d make a great gift (as would the brand’s more earthy, spring-inspired scent, GUESS Bella Vita Rosa). After all, consider the name; by giving this to someone, you’ll be wishing them a beautiful life in Italian.
For me, the holidays are about making an entrance and creating lasting memories, and, with the help of this fragrance, I plan to do both this year. Whether I’m going for full glam in an LBD on New Year’s Eve, or getting comfy in a chunky sweater to sit fireside with family, Bella Vita Eau de Parfum is my must-spritz.