L'femme Classic

First Impressions & Dry Down

L'Femme Classic opens with a big burst of orange blossom, attempting the iconic Classique. The star anise is dialed up higher here, adding a sharper, slightly medicinal edge that the original smooths out. Rose is present, but plays second fiddle. The heart leans heavily into ylang-ylang, a touch indolic, bolstered by a spicy ginger that lacks the finesse of Gaultier’s version. The orchid is a ghost. The base of vanilla, amber, and musk attempts the seductive drydown. It's about 92% there but the vanilla has a slightly plastic quality, a tell-tale sign of its budget.

To Buy or Not to Buy?

This is a decent dupe for Classique, capturing the essence . It's for the woman who appreciates the *idea* of Classique but doesn't want to spend designer money. If you are seeking a close reproduction you will be disappointed. But that extra 92% of nuance and quality makes a difference, so if you have the budget and are a true Classique lover, go for the original. If you want a fun, flirtatious scent for everyday wear and don't mind a few synthetic edges, L'Femme Classic will do the trick.

The Performance Stats

Longevity is surprisingly decent. I get about 5-6 hours on skin, projecting moderately for the first hour before settling closer. On clothing, it lasts longer, but that synthetic vanilla becomes more pronounced.