The iconic Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Parfum has just turned 10

The expression “la vie est belle” translates to “life is beautiful” which is very fitting for this particular fragrance. The fragrance has just celebrated it’s 10 year anniversary with a special edition bottle which I was sent by Lancôme. The juice is still the same but the bottle is just more glam with the bow pink instead of grey and there is a beautiful pink and gold starburst glitter design. Lancôme La Vie Est Belle Eau De Parfum may have been around for only 10 years now but I can clearly remember growing up with this scent and it is actually Lancôme’s number 1 selling scent too.

The info:

Spread happiness with La Vie Est Belle, Lancôme’s best selling feminine fragrance. Incarnated by Julia Roberts, La Vie Est Belle is a universal declaration to the beauty of life. A unique olfactory signature perfume scent created by three of France’s leading perfumers. One of these being Olivier Polge, who is the head of perfume creation at the Chanel and this was actually the last perfume he created under Lancôme so screams luxury.

The bottle:

The resplendent bottle, entitled “le sourire de cristal” (the “crystal smile”) evokes the rounded imprint of a smile at the heart of the crystal square.

The finishing touch of refinement: a pearlescent grey organza ribbon is tied around its neck, forming the twin wings of freedom.

Lancôme has kept this classic minimalist but chic design of the bottle for it’s other variants within the range. But very true to the brand of classic clean lines and heavy base. The pink liquid and bow add that extra touch of femininity.

The scent:

Transversal Notes: Iris, Fine delicacies accord

To be honest this is the first time I have seen a transversal note which is probably what makes the scent of this fragrance so complex and unique.

Top Notes: Pear, Blackberry

The top notes are pretty sweet. I can smell the Iris, black currant, and pear.

Heart Notes: Pallida Iris concrete, Orange Blossom and Jasmine Sambac absolutes

After a few minutes the fragrance completely transforms. While still sweet there is the complex added from the patchouli and orange blossom combination. And the predominate scent of Iris. Also to note Iris is not found in many perfumes as it is a very rare and expensive ingredient. This just adds to the uniqueness of this frangrance.

Base Notes: Heart of Patchouli essence

Whilst officially praline, tonka bean and vanilla are not listed in the notes description I get a whiff of a powdery sweet gourmand note. The patchouli balances out the sweetness so it does not become overly sweet. It also creates depth.

Having sniffed many perfumes in my days I still find individual notes difficult to pinpoint they all just seem to meld together into something unique. It is the perfect combination between floral, sweet and fruity.

It is a perfect daily perfume as it lasts all day but is not too overpowering or strong. Which makes it great for day and night. This is a really timeless scent.