Since this fragrance is repeatedly compared to Armani Si and referred to as a dupe, I made it my mission to highlight the differences. I am wearing both In Woman and Armani Si on my wrists today to compare the two scents throughout the day. Both seem pleasant to me from the start, but these two fragrances are by no means identical. In Woman feels less deep and complex, and after some sniffing, I realized why. It lacks the mandarin and bergamot, that zesty, warm-sunny, sorbet-sweet freshness that is carried by the vanilla in the base note of Armani and is still perceptible even after several hours with Armani Si. Nevertheless, In Woman is fruity, as both perfumes share black currant in the top note. In the first hour, I would even classify In Woman as the more intense scent.
Three hours later, a gourmand vanilla dominates In Woman. While caramel is not listed as an ingredient, my nose tells me: Werther's Original cream candy, mhhh delicious, but unfortunately, the fruity notes are already noticeably fading, making the scent seem less complex, which might appeal to some more sensitive noses, as it feels more innocent and youthful. Armani Si, after 3 hours, is still present in all its facets and is clearly distinguishable from the other scent in the top note (mandarin/bergamot) and feels slightly less sweet. Both fragrances contain freesia, a note that I simply love and that harmonizes very well with zesty fruity notes and vanilla. In Woman by La Rive is a very successful perfume; it does not possess the same degree of multidimensionality as Armani Si, but this does not mean that the scent is inferior. It is simply different. More like a dessert: crème brûlée (vanilla + caramel) with a short glass of cassis on the side. Very appetizing! French bliss. If Amélie (the film) were to wear a perfume, it would surely be In Woman!
Nevertheless, I do not dare to decide which fragrance is better. In my opinion, they are too different.
Not only considering the surprisingly low price (5-10 Eur/100 ml), but also because In Woman is truly a good solid fragrance, I can recommend it without reservation. In my opinion, In Woman also resembles Viva La Juicy by Juicy Couture, due to the berries in the top note and the gourmand vanilla-caramel scent in the base.
I actually liked the fruity component too, although I've always preferred a glass of cassis over puddings. I couldn't notice a difference from Si, but I agree with you, In Woman even feels heavier. I also find your comparison to JC helpful; I now have a better idea of it ;)
Anessa 8 years ago
Precious 8 years ago
