Born in Roma - Green Stavaganza 💚

Walking into Ulta and snagging the Valentino Born in Roma Green Stravaganza for a steal felt like winning the lottery, especially with that 'NEW FRAGRANCE ALERT' buzz! But let me tell you, there's one thing that truly surprised me once I got it home: the size of that 1oz bottle. If you're anything like me and used to the more substantial 1.7oz or even 3.4oz sizes of other Valentino perfumes, the 1oz (30ml) can be quite a shocker. As the image shows, comparing it to my other Born in Roma bottles, it's genuinely compact. This makes me wonder: who is the 1oz size really for? For me, it's perfect for tossing into a small purse for touch-ups or for travel since it’s TSA-friendly. It's also an amazing way to test out a new scent without committing to a larger, more expensive bottle, especially if you're not sure if it's 'the one.' However, if you fall head over heels for a fragrance, you might find yourself wishing you'd gone for the 1.7oz or even the 3.4oz sooner, as the cost per milliliter is usually more favorable with larger sizes. I know I would've been a bit 'salty' if I'd paid the full $92 for just one ounce! Now, onto the scent itself! The original post mentioned a 'green apple vanilla type smell with strawberries,' and I couldn't agree more. For me, it opens with a vibrant, almost fizzy burst of green apple that feels incredibly fresh and uplifting – truly embodying that 'Green Stravaganza' name. This crispness then mellows into a creamy, comforting vanilla, with a playful hint of sweet strawberry adding a touch of juicy gourmand delight. It's not overly sweet or heavy; instead, it strikes a beautiful balance between fruity, fresh, and subtly gourmand. It feels perfect for spring and summer days, but honestly, I think it's versatile enough to brighten up any season. And let's talk about the bottle itself! The iconic Valentino rockstud design gets a brilliant update with this vibrant, almost neon green hue for Green Stravaganza. It's a statement piece on its own, perfectly reflecting the lively and energetic scent inside. The 'green box' with the 'NEW FRAGRANCE ALERT' is just as striking, making it an exciting unboxing experience. My advice for anyone looking to snag this gem or any Valentino perfume? Always keep an eye out for sales, especially at places like Ulta and Sephora. Loyalty points programs are your best friend, turning those purchases into even better deals. Don't be afraid to sample first, and then decide which size truly fits your lifestyle and budget. Happy sniffing!