Some perfumes sell you a holiday. Victoria Beckham Hotel Portofino sells the feeling of falling in love there. The designer's new fragrance turns a private Italian escape into a woody, spicy scent, wrapped in gold. But a beautiful campaign only answers half the shopping question: would you actually enjoy wearing it?
The Love Story Behind Hotel Portofino
Hotel Portofino revisits the 1997 Italian Riviera trip that inspired Portofino '97, Beckham's earlier eau de parfum. She worked with master perfumer J茅r么me Epinette again, drawing on the intimacy of that time with David Beckham.
The distinction sits in the mood. Beckham describes Hotel Portofino as a separate experience with different ingredients. Think of it as another chapter from the same memory, rather than simply a stronger copy of the original.
A Campaign That Keeps Romance Close
For the Victoria Beckham Beauty campaign, photographers Mert & Marcus place Beckham at the centre of the story. Stylist Isa Kountoure dresses her in soft, intimate pieces, including a pale pink lace-edged slip dress and an ivory one-shoulder gown.
Vintage furniture and warm sunlight support the romantic mood. The images suggest a private hotel room rather than a crowded red carpet. That intimacy gives the fragrance a clear identity without requiring a lengthy sales pitch.
What Does Hotel Portofino Smell Like?
The brand describes Hotel Portofino Extrait de Parfum as woody and spicy, with a fruitier, darker character than Portofino '97. Its published scent structure provides a useful starting point:
| Scent stage | Listed ingredients |
|---|---|
| Opening | Bergamot, basil, saffron |
| Heart | Wild fig, agarwood, pinot noir accord |
| Base | Incense, papyrus, black amber |
The citrus and herbs suggest a fresh opening. Fig and the wine-inspired accord point toward fruit and depth, while incense and woods suggest a darker finish. These descriptions reflect the brand's ingredient list; your skin test will tell you how they wear together.
Who Might Enjoy It?
Use the scent profile to narrow your shortlist:
- Consider it if you enjoy woody, spicy perfumes with fruity touches.
- Try it for evening wear; Beckham says she reaches for it at night.
- Test carefully if you usually prefer light, simple citrus scents.
Price and How to Try It
The official US store lists the 50 mL bottle at $320. Gold fluting and a turquoise label give the bottle a vintage appearance. This release also marks the brand's first extrait de parfum.
Before buying:
- Ask a stockist about testing or sample availability.
- Try it on skin and return to the scent several hours later.
- Compare it directly with Portofino '97 if you already own that perfume.
Pro-Tip: Judge the later scent as carefully as the first spray. The opening can charm you quickly; the scent that stays should earn the purchase.
Let Your Skin Make the Decision
Start with a test, then check the current price and stock status. Romance supplies the story. Your own enjoyment should supply the reason to buy.
