Victoria Beckham’s Fragrance Collection
What was the first scent you bought with your own money?
The first scent that I bought was from The Body Shop in the 80s, probably on a Saturday with my mum in Lakeside shopping centre. They had simple body oils or fragrance oils in scents like vanilla and strawberry, which I loved.
The Spice Girls Impulse body spray from the 90s was my first scent. Do you have any memories of creating it?
This was a time when the Spice Girls were advertising a plethora of products. While we didn’t directly create the scent, we probably approved its silhouette, which featured five naked silhouettes on the cover. It was a fun experience, especially the video campaign where we appeared to be walking through a busy street.
What made you want to launch this fragrance collection?
This is my most personal creative project yet. After eight years of collaboration with Jerome Epinette, Master Perfumer for Robertet, I feel this collection is a reflection of my journey. It’s a blend of my love for fragrance, my travels, and my path to self-acceptance. This project feels oddly emotional but concurrently liberating, making it feel like my fifth child.
Has it been emotional looking back at your life to create the scents?
Indeed, it has been an emotional experience. The public has shared my journey through the years—from my time in the Spice Girls, my marriage to David, and our family life. Many of our fans have been a part of our story for over 27 years, even though I’ve never fully shared these narratives until now. Shooting the fragrance campaign in a New York studio with vast projections evoked strong emotions as they reminded me of those treasured moments.
What was it like shooting with Steven Klein and did you have a vision for the campaign?
Working with Steven Klein was extraordinary. I admire how he captures women powerfully, presenting them as strong and in control. We worked tirelessly on the campaign, and it was a rewarding experience to collaborate with a creative genius who shares my passion.
What are the bottles inspired by?
The bottles were designed for visual enjoyment. Their color palette blends elements from my previous fashion collections and a vintage miniature fragrance bottle I cherished. The vivid turquoise color symbolizes my love for fragrance since childhood.
The fragrance names are so specific, what is Portofino ’97 inspired by?
David and I kept our romance discreet when we first started dating. After a few months, we took our first trip to Portofino in 1997. The memories of that experience—the fresh sheets at Hotel Splendido, the beautiful surroundings—were unforgettable and shaped this scent.
What is Suite 302 inspired by?
After Portofino, I developed a strong affinity for travel, especially to Paris. We spent many anniversaries there, and the Ritz Hotel’s Suite 302 became one of our cherished spots, symbolizing romance and elegance.
The final scent is San Ysidro Drive, what’s the story behind it?
This scent represents our time in Los Angeles, a period of self-discovery and acceptance for me. The beautiful outdoors, family hikes, and the overall wellness culture in LA enriched my life immensely, making this fragrance a fragrant homage to that chapter.
Does David have a favorite scent from the collection?
If I went on a date night with David, I’d wear Suite 302. While I find the word ‘sexy’ a bit cliché, it does aptly describe this fragrance, which features strong notes of cherry and tobacco. David appreciates how much effort went into creating each scent, and he enjoys them all.
As a seasoned traveler, what’s one thing you won’t travel without?
I always carry my Yeti flask, which keeps me hydrated—a priority during travels.
How do you make the most of your travel time?
I take this time to read. Currently, I’m enjoying ‘This Is Not A Pity Memoir’ by Abi Morgan. I also appreciate various genres and often dive into different authors’ works.
Do you have a strict travel beauty routine?
I take my beauty products seriously. I pack power serums, moisturizers, and a variety of skincare items, ensuring I feel my best while traveling. It’s quite the procedure, often requiring multiple bags!
Do you ever visit any spas?
Yes, David and I cherish the experience of visiting medical spas in Europe, like Villa Stephanie in Baden Baden. They provide the perfect blend of health, wellness, and relaxation amidst beautiful surroundings.
What wellness routines do you practice at home?
Meditation and crystal energy play essential roles in my wellness routine. David and I exercise daily, incorporate healthy meals, and maintain a balanced lifestyle, blending relaxation with wellness.