Eternal Roots: Bella Hadid Unveils a Fragrance Inspired by Self-Discovery and Nature's Grounding Power
Table of Contents
- Key Highlights:
- Introduction
- The Olfactory Tapestry of Eternal Roots: A Sweet Grittiness
- The Genesis of a Name: "Eternal Roots" and the Pursuit of Grounding
- Self-Reflection and the Mirror Within
- The Versatility of a "Forever Scent"
- The Ritual of Scent: Application and Personal Expression
- Beyond the Bottle: Authenticity, Connection, and Summer in Texas
- The Ôrebella Philosophy: Beyond Fragrance
- The Art of Unconventional Blending: Echoes of Fashion in Fragrance
- The Daily Ritual and Scent Wardrobe
Key Highlights:
- Bella Hadid's newest fragrance, Eternal Roots, the fifth in her Ôrebella line, blends unexpected notes like lychee, raspberry, vetiver, and pink pepper, mirroring her unconventional fashion sense.
- The scent embodies a philosophy of grounding through nature, family, friends, and the acknowledgment of one's inner child, emphasizing self-reflection and authenticity.
- Designed as a versatile "forever scent," Eternal Roots transcends seasonal or situational limitations, suitable for any time or occasion, unlike some of her more targeted previous releases.
Introduction
Bella Hadid has long captivated global audiences, not just as a supermodel, but as a personality who approaches her craft with an intriguing blend of intuition and intention. Her foray into the world of fragrance, with her brand Ôrebella, represents a deeply personal extension of this philosophy. The latest addition to her perfume line, "Eternal Roots," is more than just a scent; it is a fragrant narrative on self-discovery, resilience, and the grounding forces that shape an individual. This article explores the intricate layers of Eternal Roots, delving into its unique olfactory profile, the profound inspiration behind its name, and Hadid’s broader vision for a fragrance brand rooted in natural elements and authentic self-expression. Through her candid reflections, Hadid reveals a compelling connection between personal growth, the power of nature, and the art of perfumery, offering insights into how scent can serve as a catalyst for deeper introspection and connection.
The Olfactory Tapestry of Eternal Roots: A Sweet Grittiness
Eternal Roots emerges as a compelling paradox in the Ôrebella collection: a fruity fragrance that defies conventional sweetness with an unexpected edge. Hadid, ever the innovator, approached its creation with the same intuitive, almost experimental, spirit she applies to her personal style. "I like to put a bunch of weird stuff together and hope it works," she explains, referencing her renowned ability to combine disparate fashion elements like basketball shorts and ballet flats into a cohesive, trend-setting look. This same audacity is evident in Eternal Roots' composition, where delicate fruit notes meet earthy depth.
The scent opens with a vibrant blend of raspberry and lychee, two fruits selected for their inherent sweetness and, in Hadid’s case, their nostalgic resonance. Lychee, with its subtly floral and tropical profile, was a revelation for Hadid in the world of perfumery, while raspberry blossom taps into a cherished childhood memory—her favorite gelato flavor. These bright, effervescent top notes create an initial impression that is both inviting and familiar. However, the fragrance quickly evolves, revealing its underlying complexity. Vetiver, a smoky, earthy grass, introduces a sophisticated dryness, providing an anchor to the initial sweetness. Pink pepper, known for its subtly spicy, rose-like aroma, adds a delicate piquancy, creating a nuanced counterpoint that prevents the scent from becoming cloying. This "sweet with a little bit of something jazzy at the bottom," as Hadid describes it, is what makes Eternal Roots distinctive.
The choice of these particular notes reflects a deliberate artistic statement. By pairing the sweetness of fruit with the grounded, almost masculine undertones of vetiver and the subtle spice of pink pepper, Hadid aims for an "androgynous" quality. This duality—the interplay between soft and gritty, sweet and woody—is central to the fragrance's identity. It mirrors the complex facets of personal identity, suggesting that strength can coexist with tenderness, and that authenticity lies in embracing contradictions. The result is a scent that, while undeniably sweet at its core, possesses a sophisticated depth that resonates beyond a single gender or occasion. It is a fragrance that invites closer examination, much like Hadid's own multifaceted public persona.
The Genesis of a Name: "Eternal Roots" and the Pursuit of Grounding
The name "Eternal Roots" carries a weight of meaning, drawing from multiple layers of Hadid’s philosophy, all of which converge on the concept of grounding. At its most fundamental, the name links directly to the Ôrebella brand's commitment to nature, with all scents deriving from essential oils. This connection is not merely cosmetic; it reflects a deeper reverence for "mother nature" and the inherent stability found in the earth's natural structures, particularly the enduring strength of tree roots. For Hadid, this translates into a tangible practice of grounding herself "in nature, when my feet are in the grass"—a simple yet profound act she considers one of the most healing gifts available.
Beyond the literal connection to flora, "Eternal Roots" extends into the spiritual and personal. Hadid articulates a vital shift from external grounding to internal stability: "Grounding within yourself." This internal grounding is multifaceted, encompassing connections to family, long-standing friendships, and the often-overlooked "inner child." She posits that true strength comes not only from external relationships but from acknowledging and nurturing the nascent, authentic self that existed in childhood. This perspective challenges the societal tendency to forget or dismiss early experiences, instead advocating for their recognition as a wellspring of inspiration and resilience.
The concept of "eternal existence" further broadens the name's scope, touching upon a collective human experience. Hadid suggests that while individual life experiences vary, there's a shared "collective consciousness" of what it means to be human—a thread that connects all individuals through their shared journey of growth and self-discovery. This holistic view implies that the search for one's roots is not just a personal quest but a universal human endeavor, rooted in the very fabric of existence.
In essence, "Eternal Roots" is a tribute to the enduring forces that provide stability and meaning: the earth, one's lineage, chosen family, and the foundational self that persists through life's changes. It is a reminder that true strength and self-awareness are cultivated by acknowledging these profound connections and continuously nurturing them, creating a solid base from which to grow.
Self-Reflection and the Mirror Within
Bella Hadid’s personal journey, particularly her experiences in the fashion and beauty industries, deeply influenced the conceptualization of Eternal Roots as a "tribute to self-reflection." She openly discusses the pervasive challenge of external validation, where "you start to find your worth in jobs or in designers or people that you work around." This external gaze can distort one's self-perception, leading to a dissonance between how one is seen by others and how one truly sees oneself. For Hadid, the critical realization was that her "reflection that I had of myself wasn’t the same reflection that other people saw of me." This disjuncture underscored the paramount importance of internal validation.
The core message of Eternal Roots, in this context, is the necessity of being "eternally rooted in yourself"—to become one's "own mirror." This metaphor emphasizes an active, conscious process of introspection, where self-worth is derived from an internal understanding rather than external approval. It speaks to the courage required to "walk in your truth," even when it diverges from societal expectations or the perceptions of others. Hadid champions the idea of cultivating an inner strength that is resilient but not rigid, capable of enduring life’s challenges without succumbing to cynicism or emotional hardening.
Hadid acknowledges that life's pressures "can make people hard and make a lot of really beautiful hearts cold." Yet, she steadfastly resolved "never to allow anything external to make me cold." This commitment to maintaining an inner warmth and sweetness, even amidst "grittiness" or "coolness," directly translates into the fragrance’s duality. The sweet notes of lychee and raspberry symbolize this inherent kindness and positivity, while the earthy, woody undertones of papyrus, patchouli, and vetiver represent the necessary toughness—the resilience to remain true to oneself despite adversity.
Self-reflection, as Hadid frames it, is not a static state but an ongoing discipline. "I’m still learning," she admits, highlighting the non-linear nature of this journey. It involves consistently choosing authenticity, avoiding people-pleasing, and refraining from overextending oneself. The fragrance, therefore, becomes a tangible reminder of this internal work, a daily affirmation of the commitment to stay true to one’s essential nature, regardless of external circumstances. It encapsulates the challenging yet rewarding process of continuous self-discovery and the preservation of one’s authentic self against the currents of external pressures.
The Versatility of a "Forever Scent"
Unlike many fragrances designed for specific times or occasions, Eternal Roots is conceived by Bella Hadid as a "forever scent"—a testament to its remarkable versatility. Her previous Ôrebella releases, such as Nightcap, with its "sexier scent," were explicitly intended for evening wear or intimate settings, while Blooming Fire evoked images of "a nice summer day or being on the beach." These fragrances were crafted with a particular atmosphere in mind, designed to complement a mood or event. Eternal Roots, however, breaks free from these temporal and situational constraints.
Hadid states, "This is the first scent that I can’t really pinpoint exactly where you would wear it to, because you can wear it really anywhere." This fluidity is a deliberate choice, born from the fragrance's multifaceted composition. Its balance of sweet fruit notes with grounded, woody undertones allows it to adapt seamlessly to various environments and seasons. Whether amidst the crisp air of winter or the warmth of a summer day, for a casual morning coffee run or a sophisticated evening at a restaurant, Eternal Roots retains its appeal. It is a scent that transcends categories, designed to be a constant companion rather than a situational accessory.
This universal applicability mirrors Hadid’s broader philosophy of authenticity and adaptability. Just as one’s roots provide a stable foundation regardless of the external environment, Eternal Roots offers a consistent, comforting presence. It caters to the modern individual who values flexibility and seeks a signature scent that reflects their multifaceted life without being confined by rigid rules of application. This "everyday kind of girl" ethos positions Eternal Roots not as a fleeting trend, but as a staple—a reliable and beloved fragrance that integrates effortlessly into daily life, embodying the enduring nature implied by its name.
The Ritual of Scent: Application and Personal Expression
For Bella Hadid, the application of fragrance is far from a casual afterthought; it is a full-bodied, immersive ritual that extends beyond mere pulse points. Her approach is holistic, treating scent as an integral part of her overall well-being and personal expression. She describes applying Eternal Roots, and indeed her other Ôrebella fragrances, immediately "fresh out of the shower," indicating a desire for the scent to meld seamlessly with her natural skin, becoming an extension of her being.
Hadid's method is generous and uninhibited: "Boobs, butt, legs. Everything." This comprehensive application ensures that the fragrance envelops her entire body, creating an all-encompassing aura. Her playful remark, "You could smell me from 12 miles away," highlights her confidence in the scent's projection and her desire for its presence to be noticed and appreciated. This isn't about overwhelming those around her but about creating a personal, fragrant signature that radiates outward.
Beyond traditional body application, Hadid also incorporates the scent into her hair, a common practice among fragrance enthusiasts who desire a lingering trail. The hair, with its natural movement and ability to hold scent, becomes another canvas for expression. Furthermore, she reveals a unique application for Eternal Roots when wearing low-cut shirts or exposing her shoulders, using it "as moisturizer." This suggests a texture and formulation that allows for direct skin contact, potentially offering hydrating benefits while imparting fragrance. The goal is to feel "yummy and moisturized and shiny," indicating that the fragrance contributes not just to aroma but to a sensory experience that enhances her skin's appearance and feel.
This detailed, almost performative, application ritual underscores Hadid’s belief that fragrance is a deeply personal and sensual experience. It is a form of self-care and self-expression, a way to connect with one’s body and mood, and to project a desired atmosphere into the world. Her method transforms the act of wearing perfume from a simple spritz to an artful, intimate practice that reinforces the connection between scent and identity.
Beyond the Bottle: Authenticity, Connection, and Summer in Texas
Bella Hadid’s candid interview provides a glimpse into a life that, despite its global prominence, remains tethered to personal values and simple pleasures. Her summer, characterized by quality time with loved ones—a pregnant best friend and her parents—and a retreat to the Texas heat, paints a picture of deliberate grounding. This emphasis on family and friendships reinforces her concept of "Eternal Roots" as originating from the people who "see me for who I am" and make her "feel like you." The act of spending time in Texas, surrounded by sun and nature, underscores her conviction that "nature is the most healing thing that we have on this planet." These choices are not incidental; they are conscious decisions to nurture the foundational elements of her life, those "God-given gifts" that cannot be acquired.
Hadid’s desire to discuss her perfumes—and even solicit feedback from the interviewer—reveals a genuine passion that extends beyond mere product promotion. She is genuinely excited by the creative process of developing fragrances, comparing it to "putting an outfit together with a bunch of accessories that don’t work." This unconventional, experimental spirit is a hallmark of her approach to both fashion and fragrance, suggesting an intrinsic drive to innovate and defy norms. Her delight in others inquiring about her scents, whether on a casual outing or at a ranch, stems from a desire for connection and a validation of her creative vision. She is not merely selling a product; she is sharing a part of herself, a carefully curated olfactory reflection of her inner world.
This authenticity is a recurring theme in her narrative. When discussing how she chooses a scent each day, she states, "It’s genuinely about how I feel every day." This personal connection to her fragrances—using Window 2 Soul as her daily go-to, Nightcap for dinners, and Blooming Fire for outdoor activities—highlights how scent serves as an extension of her mood and the atmosphere she wishes to embody. The ability to mix scents, particularly in the intense Texas heat, further demonstrates a playful adaptability and a deep understanding of her products' nuances. This holistic approach, where fragrance is woven into the fabric of her daily life and emotional landscape, solidifies the notion that for Hadid, perfume is an intimate and evolving form of self-expression, deeply intertwined with her "eternal roots."
The Ôrebella Philosophy: Beyond Fragrance
Ôrebella is not merely a collection of perfumes; it is the manifestation of Bella Hadid’s holistic philosophy, deeply rooted in natural ingredients, personal authenticity, and a conscious connection to self and surroundings. The brand's foundational principle of deriving all scents from essential oils and "mother nature" is a deliberate choice, aligning with Hadid's belief in nature as a profound source of healing and grounding. This commitment to natural ingredients positions Ôrebella within a broader movement towards more mindful and sustainable beauty practices, appealing to consumers who seek products with integrity and a genuine connection to the earth.
Central to the Ôrebella ethos is the concept of grounding—not just physically in nature, but emotionally and spiritually within oneself. Each fragrance, particularly Eternal Roots, serves as a fragrant anchor, designed to evoke a sense of stability and self-awareness. This emphasis on introspection and self-worth is a powerful counter-narrative to the often-superficial world of celebrity-driven brands. Hadid’s personal experiences with the pressures of public life inform this message, making it resonate with an audience navigating their own quests for authenticity. She champions the idea of being one’s "own mirror," finding internal validation rather than relying on external approval, a lesson she learned firsthand in her career.
Furthermore, Ôrebella fosters a sense of nostalgia and collective consciousness. Hadid infuses her scents with personal memories and childhood experiences, believing that these shared human elements can create deeper connections. This approach taps into the emotional power of scent—its unique ability to evoke memories, moods, and a sense of shared human experience. By inviting consumers to find their "inner child" and harness the "strength of who we were as kids," Hadid encourages a journey of rediscovery and self-acceptance through her creations.
In essence, Ôrebella transcends traditional perfumery by offering a conduit for deeper self-connection and mindful living. It’s a brand built on the conviction that true beauty emanates from within, fostered by genuine connections to nature, family, friends, and the unwavering strength of one's own "eternal roots." This thoughtful approach transforms each fragrance into a tool for self-reflection, a personal ritual, and a reminder to stay true to oneself, no matter the external circumstances.
The Art of Unconventional Blending: Echoes of Fashion in Fragrance
Bella Hadid’s approach to fragrance creation within Ôrebella is strikingly analogous to her celebrated, often unconventional, fashion style. Just as she famously paired basketball shorts with ballet flats—a combination that initially seemed discordant but ultimately became a trendsetting statement—she applies the same daring philosophy to her perfume compositions. This willingness to "put a bunch of weird stuff together and hope it works" is a defining characteristic of both her personal aesthetic and her brand’s olfactory identity.
In fashion, Hadid is renowned for her ability to synthesize disparate elements into a cohesive and impactful look. She eschews predictable combinations, opting instead for surprising juxtapositions that challenge conventional notions of style. This intuitive yet bold approach has made her a style icon, with her outfits often sparking new trends.
This same creative impulse is evident in Eternal Roots. The pairing of sweet, succulent lychee and raspberry with the earthy, grounding notes of vetiver and the subtle spice of pink pepper is a testament to this unconventional blending. On paper, these notes might not immediately suggest a harmonious blend, much like basketball shorts and ballet flats. However, in execution, they create a fragrance that is both familiar and innovative, sweet yet sophisticatedly gritty. The aim is not to follow established fragrance norms but to forge a new path, creating scents that are unique and memorable.
Hadid's desire "not to use something that everybody else has used" speaks to a larger commitment to individuality and distinctiveness. She seeks to create fragrances that resonate with those who appreciate uniqueness and are unafraid to express their multifaceted identities. This mirrors her fashion choices, which often lean towards vintage, custom, or unexpected pieces that set her apart from the crowd.
Ultimately, the parallel between Hadid’s fashion and fragrance methodology highlights her holistic creative vision. For her, scent is another form of self-expression, a wearable art that, like clothing, can convey mood, personality, and a philosophical stance. By embracing "mismatched" notes in her perfumes, she invites wearers to explore their own complexities and to celebrate the beautiful, sometimes contradictory, elements that make them unique.
The Daily Ritual and Scent Wardrobe
Bella Hadid's approach to choosing and applying her Ôrebella fragrances illustrates a thoughtful, almost intuitive, daily ritual. She doesn't subscribe to a rigid schedule for her scents; instead, her choice is "genuinely about how I feel every day." This emotional connection to her fragrance wardrobe speaks to the power of scent as a tool for mood enhancement and self-expression.
She has cultivated a personal "scent wardrobe" from her own line, with each fragrance serving a distinct purpose or complementing a particular mood or occasion. Window 2 Soul holds the position of her "go-to"—a versatile everyday scent that presumably offers comfort and familiarity. Nightcap, with its "sexier" profile, is reserved for evening engagements, particularly dinners, suggesting a desire to evoke sophistication and allure in more formal settings. Blooming Fire, described as suitable for "any given outdoor activity," clearly aligns with a more vibrant, energetic mood, evoking images of sunshine and freedom.
Eternal Roots, as discussed, stands apart as a "forever scent," universally adaptable. This intentional versatility allows it to seamlessly integrate into her routine, regardless of the day's demands or seasonal shifts. Its ability to transition from "winter, in the snow" to "summer, on the beach" underscores its unique positioning within her collection.
Hadid's candid mention of having fragrances "everywhere in my house" and "all of them in my purse too" highlights her constant engagement with scent. This ubiquitous presence ensures she has options readily available to match her fluctuating moods or the demands of her schedule. The practice of mixing scents, especially in extreme heat, reveals an experimental spirit and a deep understanding of her fragrances' individual characteristics. This blending allows her to create bespoke olfactory experiences, further personalizing her scent journey.
Beyond personal enjoyment, Hadid finds joy in the interactive aspect of her creations. She actively switches her scents so she "can answer questions about them," indicating a desire to engage with others about her brand and the stories behind each fragrance. This interaction transforms the act of wearing perfume into a shared experience, reinforcing her genuine connection with her products and her audience. For Hadid, fragrance is not merely an accessory; it is a dynamic element of daily life, a reflection of mood, and a catalyst for connection.
FAQ
What is the inspiration behind Ôrebella's "Eternal Roots" fragrance?
"Eternal Roots" draws inspiration from multiple interconnected concepts. Primarily, it's rooted in the idea of grounding, both literally in "mother nature" and symbolically within oneself. This includes connecting to essential oils and the earth's natural structures, as well as finding stability within one's family, long-standing friendships, and acknowledging the strength of one's "inner child." The scent is also a tribute to self-reflection and staying true to one's authentic self, regardless of external pressures.
What are the key fragrance notes in "Eternal Roots"?
Eternal Roots features a unique blend of fruity and earthy notes. The top notes include sweet and nostalgic lychee and raspberry blossom, providing a bright and inviting opening. These are balanced by deeper, more grounding base notes of vetiver, which adds a woody and slightly smoky quality, and pink pepper, which introduces a subtle, spicy piquancy. Other woody notes like papyrus and patchouli also contribute to its multifaceted, "sweet but gritty" character.
How does "Eternal Roots" differ from other fragrances in the Ôrebella line?
Unlike some of Ôrebella's previous releases, which Hadid describes as suited for specific occasions (e.g., Nightcap for evenings, Blooming Fire for outdoor summer days), Eternal Roots is designed as a highly versatile "forever scent." It aims to be suitable for any time, season, or event, from casual daily wear to more formal settings, transcending traditional fragrance categories due to its balanced and multifaceted composition.
What is Bella Hadid's philosophy on choosing and applying perfume?
Bella Hadid approaches fragrance selection based on her daily mood and feelings. She curates a personal "scent wardrobe" from her Ôrebella line, choosing different fragrances to match specific moods or activities. Her application method is comprehensive and uninhibited: she applies scent liberally to her hair and body, including areas like the "boobs, butt, legs," immediately after showering. She even uses it "as moisturizer" on exposed skin to enhance luminosity and scent projection, indicating a desire for the fragrance to be an integral, all-encompassing part of her aura.
How does Bella Hadid's personal style influence her fragrance creations?
Hadid's personal fashion style, known for its unconventional and often unexpected combinations (like basketball shorts with ballet flats), directly influences her approach to fragrance creation. She enjoys blending "weird stuff together" in her perfumes, aiming for unique and distinctive olfactory profiles that defy traditional expectations. This reflects her desire to create scents that are not "what everybody else has used," fostering individuality and a sense of daring in her creations, much like her sartorial choices.
What does Bella Hadid mean by "being your own mirror" in relation to "Eternal Roots"?
"Being your own mirror" refers to the crucial act of self-reflection and internal validation. Hadid emphasizes the importance of understanding oneself and deriving self-worth from within, rather than seeking approval or definition from external sources like jobs, designers, or public perception. This concept is central to the "Eternal Roots" philosophy, which encourages individuals to stay true to who they are, find strength in their authentic selves, and maintain their inner "sweetness" and "grittiness" despite life's challenges.
Is "Eternal Roots" considered a gender-neutral fragrance?
While Hadid describes Eternal Roots as "sweeter" than some of her other creations, she also aimed for it to be "a little bit androgynous." The blend of sweet fruit notes (lychee, raspberry) with more traditionally masculine or grounding elements (vetiver, pink pepper, papyrus, patchouli) creates a duality that transcends typical gendered fragrance profiles. This suggests it is designed to appeal to anyone who appreciates its complex and versatile aroma, regardless of gender.