A Velvety Plum & Vanilla Dream with a Nostalgic Twist
A personal review of Valentino Donna Born In Roma Purple Melancholia Eau de Parfum—a warm fruity floral with plum, vanilla, and musk. Is it worth it? Read before you buy.
Valentino’s Born In Roma collection has always played with contrast—sweetness against depth, softness against edge. The newest addition, Valentino Donna Born In Roma Purple Melancholia Eau de Parfum, continues that story in a way that feels both modern and familiar.
This one surprised me.
The Notes:
- Plum
- Osmanthus
- Vanilla
- Musk
At first spritz, the plum is unmistakable. It’s juicy, slightly tart, and immediately draws you in. But this isn’t a loud fruity fragrance. Within minutes, it softens into a warm floral heart that feels smooth, almost velvety on the skin.
And then the vanilla begins to bloom.
Not sugary. Not overly gourmand. Just warm, creamy, and intimate. The musk in the base keeps it close to the skin, giving it that “come closer” energy rather than announcing itself across the room.
My Honest Thoughts
I have a sample and have been wearing it a lot lately. Purple Melancholia feels nostalgic but elevated. It reminds me of those early vanilla perfumes many of us loved growing up, only refined and layered with depth. The plum gives it personality. The vanilla gives it comfort.
It’s warm without being heavy. Sweet without being predictable.
This is a beautiful option if you love:
- Fruity florals with sophistication
- Vanilla that feels grown and polished
- Day-to-night scents that linger softly
If you’re already a fan of the Born In Roma line, this feels like its softer, moodier sister.
Verdict? Feminine. Comforting. Quietly addictive.
Tested and reviewed by Ann-Marie Cato, founder of Facetocurls, where she covers luxury fragrance and beauty with a focus on modern femininity and intentional living.