by La Rive
Fleur de Femme by La Rive is a sweet, gourmand fragrance centered around almond, cherry, vanilla, and tonka bean, with subtle floral and woody notes. It is most appreciated in cooler weather, particularly autumn and winter, where its rich, syrupy character feels cozy and comforting. The initial burst is sharp and hyper-sweet, with a pronounced sour cherry that some find overwhelming or even synthetic, though many report that this intensity diminishes within 20 to 30 minutes, revealing a smoother, more balanced drydown. The perfume is notably well-made for its price — it lacks the chemical or alcohol-laden notes common in budget fragrances, and many cite its performance as unexpectedly strong. Longevity and sillage are moderate, with some users reporting up to 8 hours of wear and strong projection initially, though it tends to settle close to the skin over time. A few reviewers found it too linear and unchanging, while others appreciated its clarity and depth, especially when layered with vanilla or other more refined gourmands. On some skin types, it can evolve into a more powdery or musky finish, and a few perceive it as “old lady”-like due to its heavy, sweet structure. There’s strong consensus it leans heavily on a Poison Girl-inspired profile, though it’s consistently noted as not a perfect match — some appreciate its added depth from cherry and patchouli, while others find it less refined than the original Dior. Overall, it’s regarded as an exceptional value and a solid choice for those who enjoy sweet, dessert-like fragrances, especially if they’re willing to allow the opening phase to mellow.