Carolina Herrera de Baez recently hosted one of the hottest parties in Dubai to celebrate her stunning ‘VIP 212’ scents and the launch of the new ‘VIP Black’ perfume. In tow was face of the brand and supermodel Taylor Hill, who – along with influencers Hannah Rasekh, Nour Arida, and Nathalie Fanj – danced the night away to the beats of David Squillace and Bas Ibellini.
In between exploring the city and getting ready for the big event, Hill sat down with Savoir Flair to reveal what the fragrance means to her, which products she can’t live without, and her ultimate beauty secret. Scroll through to see what she had to say, as well as a sneak peek into Dubai’s party of the year with an exclusive behind-the-scenes video.
When did you first get into fragrance?
My mom is actually allergic to fragrance, so it wasn’t until I was about 16 and started modeling that I really got to smell them!
What scents are you drawn to?
I love natural ones, especially things like coconut oil and cinnamon.
If you could make your own perfume, what would you put in it?
Definitely lots of calming ingredients, like peppermint. I also really love vanilla.
The key is to keep it as simple as possible, because doing too much is when things get complicated!
What emotions does the Carolina Herrera ‘212 VIP Rosé’ fragrance evoke for you?
It brings back a lot of memories of shooting the campaign as that’s when I first smelt it and it was constantly being sprayed on me! So I remember having lots fun and relive that campaign, which we shot over five days in Madrid.
What are your beauty rituals?
I make sure to keep my skin hydrated and moisturized, and I try to wash my face twice a day if I can. I keep things natural and easy – the key is to keep it as simple as possible, because doing too much is when things get complicated and you forget to do stuff! I always take my makeup off every night, too.
How do you stay healthy when you travel?
It’s important to get a lot of rest and drink a lot of water. Take baths if you can, too – just really look after yourself.
What songs are on your workout playlist?
I love Rihanna, so I have every song she’s ever done on there! I especially love “Pon de Replay”. My party playlist would be her songs, too, with some Beyoncé and Kendrick Lamar thrown in.
What’s your ultimate cheat meal?
I really believe in everything in moderation, and not having a total blowout.
What three products can you not live without?
Mascara, lip balm, and concealer.
What’s one beauty secret that you can share with us?
If you’re going out or to an event, heat your eyelash curler with a blow-dryer before curling your lashes as it will make the curl even bigger and last longer!
Complete the sentence: To me, beauty is…
Inside.
