Woman by Ralph Lauren is the newest Lauren perfume, combining feminine fragrance notes with a masculine hip-flask-style bottle, it’s a fragrance designed to be strong and just a touch too feminine to be described as gender-free. Expect a scent that’s punchy and vibrant, but that settles quickly into something a little creamier and less intense.
I really like the packaging of Woman by Ralph Lauren, as I think it’s a fun take on a hip flask that’s just a bit different from the norm. The whole bottle looks like a flask (not just the flip-top lid) and even the fragrance colour looks a little like it might be alcohol rather than perfume. This adds a vibe of masculine strength to the overall aesthetic that’s quite interesting.
The fragrance itself starts with a burst of fruity top notes thanks to the pear, blackcurrant and rhubarb, which are quickly followed by the floral middle notes of tuberose, orange blossom and Turkish Rose. I didn’t realise just how much I like tuberose (I think I keep getting it confused with Patchouli, which I definitely do not like) but I’m definitely a fan, as it reminds me of a kind of tougher, more masculine version of jasmine. The final base notes are sandalwood and hazelnut, which give this a lightly gourmand finish that settles the whole thing down so it’s less punchy. The result is a fragrance that’s attractive, but in no way feminine, which I’m surprised to say I really like. It’s £69 for 50ml and it’s currently a Boots exclusive until the 12th September when it goes nationwide. The code RALPHLAURENW15 will get you 15% off – find it here – link.
*PR Sample