by Isabella Rossellini
IsaBella is a deeply sensual, mature oriental fragrance with a powdery-sweet vanilla core that evolves into a smoky, woody tobacco and vetiver drydown. It opens with bright citrus and a cooling hint of lemon, quickly giving way to a radiant heliotrope and iris that add a delicate floral gauziness. The heart is rich with tonka and tobacco, creating a warm, slightly dusty aura, while oakmoss and vetiver ground the composition with an earthy, chypre-like depth. The scent strikes a balance between sweetness and restraint—vanilla is present but not gourmand, and the fragrance avoids cloying overt sweetness. It’s clearly designed for women who appreciate sophisticated, elegant scents with a touch of mystery. While some find it too sour or aggressive in the top notes, the drydown reveals a surprisingly refined texture—smooth, layered, and mature, with heliotrope lifting the composition into something soft and luminous. It carries an intimate sillage and projects moderately, making it ideal for evening wear or formal occasions. Despite its discontinuation, it remains a cult favorite among fans of old-school orientals and chypres.