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Rive Gauche Perfume

By Yves Saint Laurent for Women

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About the Product

Rive Gauche by Yves Saint Laurent is a timeless classic in the world of perfumery, originally launched in 1971. Crafted by perfumer Michel Hy, this fragrance embodies the spirit of freedom and femininity with the sophisticated elegance synonymous with Yves Saint Laurent. Its luxurious composition is inspired by the Parisian 'Rive Gauche' or Left Bank, reflecting the bohemian and artful lifestyle that thrives there.

Fragrance Family:

Floral Aldehyde

Scent Type:

Crisp, Floral, Woody

Notes:

Rive Gauche opens with an exhilarating bouquet of aldehydes and the fresh, citrusy aroma of bergamot, mingled with the green zest of gardenia leaves. The heart unfolds with the quintessentially feminine floral notes of rose, jasmine, and geranium—a harmonious marriage that evokes a romantic Parisian garden in full bloom. The base reveals a deeper, warmer essence with notes of vetiver, musk, oakmoss, and myrrh, leaving a lingering trail that is both earthy and slightly exotic, capturing the sophisticated allure of the bohemian Parisian left bank.

Suggested Use

For optimal experience, spray Yves Saint Laurent Rive Gauche on your pulse points such as the neck, wrists, and behind the ears. These areas naturally emit heat, enhancing the fragrance's sillage and longevity. Perfect for daytime wear, its crisp and fresh floral notes make it an ideal companion for a day at the office or a stroll through a park, offering a touch of effortless Parisian chic wherever you go.

Watch Our Review
Read the Transcript
Hey, everyone. It's Sarah, and today I'll be reviewing Rive Gauche by YSL for women. Inspired by the French avant-garde, this perfume was released in the '70s. It was created to complement the free, independent women of our time. It's filled with rose absolute, bergamot, oak moss, vetiver, balsamic notes, and metal. This is a nice signature fragrance for special occasions. All right, everyone, thanks for watching. Remember, if you want to see more reviews on your favorite products, subscribe to our YouTube channel, and keep in touch on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.
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FAQ for Rive Gauche

What does Rive Gauche Perfume smell like?

Rive Gauche by Yves Saint Laurent is a timeless fragrance that encapsulates the spirit of the 1970s. It's a fragrance with a brave composition of aldehydes, bergamot, and freesia, which are then followed to the core of rose, geranium, and jasmine. The scent's underlying notes are made with vetiver, oakmoss, and musk, thus forming a declarative dry down.

Has Rive Gauche been discontinued?

Yes, Rive Gauche Perfume has been discontinued by Yves Saint Laurent. Although it can still be found in some exclusive stores or as a vintage item, the perfume is no longer being produced regularly.

How old is Rive Gauche perfume?

Rive Gauche was first launched by Yves Saint Laurent in 1971. It was rapidly turned into a legendary scent that was eluding a trendsetter icon and its 50th birthday was celebrated in 2021.

Is Rive Gauche the same as YSL?

Rive Gauche is a specific fragrance line under the Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) brand. Although YSL includes a variety of different fashion and beauty products, Rive Gauche applies to this particular signature perfume, which is famous for its unique, and long-lasting scent.

What kind of scent is Rive Gauche Perfume?

Rive Gauche is a floral aldehyde fragrance for women.The highlight of the scent is the enterprising and original combination of floral and aldehydic notes both of which allied it as a signature perfume of brave and self-assured people.

What are the notes in Rive Gauche Perfume?

Rive Gauche is the result of the combination of a multitude of notes:

  • Top Notes: Aldehydes, Bergamot, Freesia
  • Heart Notes: Rose, Geranium, Jasmine
  • Base Notes: Vetiver, Oakmoss, Musk

What season is Rive Gauche Perfume best for?

Rive Gauche Perfume's rich and complex scent profile makes it suitable for Fall and Winter. It is the duo of the assertive low notes and the playful heart of the perfume that creates a full-bodied warmth in the air that would feel good amid lower temperatures.

Is Rive Gauche Perfume suitable for all occasions?

Rive Gauche Perfume is versatile enough for both casual and formal settings. Its intricate and refined fragrance qualities allow it to highlight in the workplace and at the same time bring a touch of style to the personal events.

Can it be worn by both men and women?

While traditionally marketed for women, Rive Gauche's bold and floral aldehydic composition allows it to be worn comfortably by anyone who appreciates its unique scent.

Where do you apply Rive Gauche Perfume?

For optimal projection and longevity, apply Rive Gauche Perfume to pulse points like the wrists, behind the ears, and at the base of the throat. You can wear the scent on the clothes in a light way of misting it also.

How long does it last?

Rive Gauche Perfume, known for its strong sillage and longevity, can last between 6 to 8 hours. However, it is important to note that it might not last as long on some skin types or in specific environmental conditions.

What was the inspiration behind Rive Gauche?

Rive Gauche was inspired by the bohemian and liberated spirit of Paris's Left Bank. Through this fragrance, Yves Saint Laurent wanted to demonstrate the revolutionary spirit of freedom, femininity, and audacity embraced by women.

About the Product
Attribute Name Attribute Value
Brand Yves Saint Laurent
Fragrance Family Floral
Fragrance Name Rive Gauche
Fragrance Classification Deodorant, Perfume, Gift Set, Shower Gel, Body Lotion, Mini, Soap, Body Cream
Volume Available in 6 ml, 8 ml, 10 ml, 30 ml, 50 ml, 60 ml, 75 ml, 100 ml, 150 ml, 151 ml and 195 ml
Top Notes Bergamot, Lemon, Green notes, Aldehydes
Heart Notes Gardenia, Jasmine, Rose, Ylang-ylang(EdP), Honeysuckle
Base Notes Sandalwood, Vetiver, Oakmoss, Amber(EdP)
Gender Women
Year Of Launch 2003
Customer Reviews
4.7
171 Reviews
Write a Review
5 stars
140
4 stars
23
3 stars
2
2 stars
1
1 stars
5
Most Liked Positive Review
5

A Divinity's perfume

Used this perfume 20 years ago. Had forgotten its absolute devine effect. Luca Turin the absolute reference for perfume scents says this for Rive Gauche: "Thanks for Rive Gauche, mere humans finally smell the odor of DIANE's scents at the bath" This is a sculpture perfume and is not for any Godess
... Read Complete Review
as it entertains a curious rapport with intensity... the more time passes, the more its grace become evident and lets its interior light irradiate." Its exactly what I'm experiencing now that it arrived and I've sprayed some on my skin...For intense, passionate and profound women...most likely for evening but too good not to use during the day... Ouuuffff! A pure marvel, how could I have been without it so long... Thank You for the great price [...]
vs.
Most Liked Negative Review
3

Nice but not as intoxicating as it was years ago

I love the classic sent although it does smell exactly the same as years ago when The first time I smelled it years ago I thought it was intoxicating. I just kept smelling it and smelling it my dad had bought it for me. I was so happy. He is an avid Cologne Wearer. He always smelled good and made
...
good cologne and perfume choices so I know. This one is not exactly the same as it used to be but very close just not intoxicating like before. And also it does not last a long time on your skin. More so on your clothes than your skin.
Read Complete Review
171 Reviews
5

Alluring perfume that stays on all day

Spray it on the hair seems to last longer.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 12/15/2025
By Teens
From Australia
5

Feedback

Awesome feeling

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 10/11/2025
By Renu
From Singapore
5

A very sensual fragrance

Holds its fragrance all day. My husband has been buying this perfume for me for the past 45 years.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 4/28/2025
By Bestie
From Australia
5

That was my favorite perfumes many years.I love it!

Good perfume still smells the same as years ago

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 2/22/2025
By Mortiz
From Puerto Rico
4

Completely different than 80's formula

Umm, not at all the scent I remember my best friend using in the 80's. The old formulation had a very sharp opening and settled into a modern floral. This formulation is softer and more generic - not as unique as the original - I still like it and will wear it in the upcoming warmer weather.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 4/5/2024
By Collector
From AZ
5

I bought this product over and over and shall again

I use it day and night

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 10/17/2023
By mim
From Malta EU
5

Rive Gauche, Yves St Laurent

It's the same price all the time I don't see any savings

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Date 5/9/2023
By Alexis
From New Jersey
5

Love this !!

A friend gave this to me in 1975. I missed it so much. I am turning 63 on April 6th and my birthday present to myself 💞

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 4/5/2023
By Ging
From Clearwater, FL USA
5

I would buy this fragrance again

This is a really great fragrance. It lasted all day long and it can be used for any occasion. It has become one of my favorites. I received many compliments.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 3/8/2023
By JulieD
From Connecticut
5

I really love this fragrance

This is a great fragrance for any occasion. I find myself using it ahead of my others. It has become a favorite.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 3/7/2023
By JulieD
From Connecticut
5

I would buy this fragrance again

This is a great fragrance that you can use to feel special.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 2/26/2023
By JulieD
From Connecticut
5

I would certainly by this product again

It's a product I use very frequently because I really like the fragrance and people often comment on how much they like me wearing it

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 2/13/2023
By Val the gardener
From Devon United Kingdom
4

Growing up using this perfume

Product changed a lot from the last time I used....longt time ago. the smell is missing something is a change done to the original formula. still nice but it doesnt hold. stay nice for a few hours and that's it. Miss the old original product as the smell was completely different.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

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Date 10/8/2022
By Camelio
From California
3

I will not buy it again

Not my type of perfume .

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Date 10/5/2022
By Hania
From BC Canada
5

I loved, loved this perfume !!! ❤️

I been looking for this perfume for a loooong time, know that I found it I used special occasions , IS THE FIRST PERFUME THAT KNOW MY HUSBAND GUVE ME AS A BIRTHDAY PRESENT , when we were going out to me is priceless, I LOVE 💕 IT .

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 9/17/2022
By Lety
From Anaheim
5

I would definitely buy this product from you again

I used this fragrance when I was on a cruise and I got so many compliments. Love love love it.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 8/13/2022
By Older mom
From Deming, New Mexico
3

Nice but not as intoxicating as it was years ago

I love the classic sent although it does smell exactly the same as years ago when The first time I smelled it years ago I thought it was intoxicating. I just kept smelling it and smelling it my dad had bought it for me. I was so happy. He is an avid Cologne Wearer. He always smelled good and made good cologne and perfume choices so I know. This one is not exactly the same as it used to be but very close just not intoxicating like before. And also it does not last a long time on your skin. More so on your clothes than your skin.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 7/23/2022
By Bri belle
From Jersey city new jersey
5

I would definitely buy this order again

Every day use, smells fresh, clean & sensual would definitely order again

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

Was this review helpful to you?

Date 5/28/2022
By Nubian Queen
From London
5

I love this product. Been buying it for years.

Love this perfume

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 5/17/2022
By Nanc
From Bennington VT
5

Has always been in my collection

This is one of my everyday perfumes that does draw attention.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 4/24/2022
By Florence
From Adelaide South Australia
5

Lovely scent

I used it a long time ago when they used to sell in department stores. I went to Paris last year, I bought one, when I came back, I googled it, I was happy to find in at FramgranceX! I love it

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 3/3/2022
By Faisy
From Alpharetta HA
5

Perennial favourite

I wore this in the late seventies and did so for many years. It then became more difficult to get hold of at a reasonable price so I switched to alternatives. It is still quite expensive but the silage ensures it lasts all day A voluptuous and all pervading perfume which is great for special occasions and always gets compliments.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 12/20/2021
By Essex gir
From London UK
5

The service that I always get from Fragrance X excellent!

I have used Rive Gauche for years and I always get comments about the uniqueness of this fragrance! It is so sensual and yet not overpowering and I like a fragrance that stands out from all the other fragrances of today

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 11/6/2021
By Fieryjoy
From Alberta Canada
5

Yes my favorite

Use a light spray all over

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 10/9/2021
By Liz
From Rockford IL
5

yes

using daily in the morning and it holds all the day and people are asking which fragrance do I use because it smells so good!

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 9/27/2021
By none
From SJ CA
5

Exactly what I ordered and wanted.

Been 30yrs since I had this perfume. Love everything about it.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 8/13/2021
By Bron
From Australia
5

Yes I would buy this product again Because Its my favorite

when I wanna use it Makes me feel Pretty

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 7/14/2021
By Royal1
From Garden City NY
5

Outstanding product

The price a bit expensive all around the world

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 5/8/2021
By Pinki
From Israel
4

I would buy this product again

I use this product all over my body I love that it reminds me of win I was 19 I used to wear it it was my favorite perfume and it's still the same it brings back fun memories.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 4/29/2021
By Shawn
From Sacramento
5

Yes

It's awesome

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 4/7/2021
By Ev
From Canada
5

Its a pete and repeat !

The product is awesome.. BACK in the 70's I got the powdered gift set also .. YOU couldnt go wrong .. Everyone lovd it !.. And I get sooo many compliments today !:) so happy its still around!... NO TABU FOR ME !:)

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 1/26/2021
By Beack Bunny
From FT. Worth Texas
5

Was so very pleased to find this..I hadn't seen it for years

This scent is just right for me!

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 1/19/2021
By Katlady
From Saco Maine
2

Very sketchy

I know the perfume is decent, but the website doesn't tell you until after you purchase that they are charging you in USD, which the bank charges a fee for. Found multiple hidden fees that could not be accounted for.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

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Date 11/29/2020
By Sarah
From Calgary AB
5

I love Rive Gauche

Have people men and women to stop me all the time and ask what I am wearing. Had one man that ask if I would write down the brand and name so he could buy it for his wife.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 8/9/2020
By Carolina girl
From Murrells Inlet SC
5

I would buy that product again and again

This is such a great perfume

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 6/24/2020
By FiFi
From Arlington MA
5

I would buy again

I spray and love it !! My favourite xx

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 6/4/2020
By Ev
From Kamloops BC
5

70's

The Perfume takes you to 70's Great +

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 1/5/2020
By Zain
From SA
5

I will buy this product again and again

I use it on special occasions as Oscar de la Renta is my signature fragrance.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 12/31/2019
By Doe
From Montreal, Canada
5

I have loved this fragrance for years

First fell in love with this fragrance in high school and used it on a very special occasion many years ago - my wedding day.

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Date 8/29/2019
By Vicky
From Toronto Canada
4

I love this fragrance & been looking for the entire set.

It makes my body speaks a language of its own. Don't smell it on anyone else and I like that. Its my own signature fragrance. Thxs.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 3/23/2019
By Queen Nita P.
From Lakeland, Fla.
5

I'd buy this product again and again!

Great smell, real deal. Fragrancex is the company you can trust. I've been buying from Fragrancex for years now, and have never received anything fake or poor quality, as I have from other sources.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 3/9/2019
By Liz
From Chicago IL
5

Delighted to find my Old Favorite Rive Gauche

I adore Rive Gauche have been using it daily for many years. Thank you FragranceX for carrying it: it is not always easy to find the "real thing!"

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 9/3/2018
By Mama Buys
From Los Angeles, CA
5

This perfume is absolutely beautiful!

I have been wearing this perfume for years. I first smelled it on a friend and thought it was just beautiful. I tried it myself and I now regard it as mine! It draws compliments from everyone young and old alike. Do try it for yourself.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 4/11/2018
By the lady from the left bank
From Canberra, Australia
5

Great way to purchase my favorite fragrance!

Great fragrance! My favorite for decades!

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 3/18/2018
By N/A
From Nashville
1

The re-formulation is nothing like the original.

Hopeless product that was once my favourite perfume. I shall have to make do with Chanel.

Bottom Line

No, I would not recommend to a friend.

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Date 1/21/2018
By Mandy
From UK
5

I will be buying this perfume regularly

Nothing more to add to my review comments

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 1/2/2018
By Sylvia
From Canada
4

this is one of my favorites

I have used this fragrance for may years and get many good comments on it. this fragrance was first given to me as a gift.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 10/2/2017
By none
From virginia beach, va
5

Best I've ever used.

A friend gave to me as a Christmas gift over 40 years ago and it's the only one that I can wear, I use it everyday. I can't find in our local stores anymore, found your website, order from there now, love your prices and no shipping fee. Keep it up, I'll stay with you forever. Great product, everyone should try it at least once.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 9/22/2017
By Sharon
From Spokane, WA.
5

Favorite since I was young

My aunt wore this scent when I was a little girl and I have loved it ever since. It also used to come in a stick but I can't seem to find it anywhere.

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 9/12/2017
By Georgina
From BC, Canada
4

I would buy this product again

Not bought this brand for years and it just smells the same as I remember

Bottom Line

Yes, I would recommend to a friend.

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Date 8/25/2017
By Vee
From Napier, New Zealand