by Ralph Lauren
Polo Modern Reserve reimagines the iconic Polo Green with a fresher, more refined approach. It opens with a bright, herbaceous burst of basil, cardamom, and pimento—energetic and tangy, evoking a crisp, green forest with subtle spiciness. The heart unfolds into a softly floral, earthy composition, where jasmine and myrrh mingle with vetiver and suede, creating a well-tailored, masculine elegance. The dry down is dry, warm, and leathery, with patchouli and woody notes lending depth and structure, resembling a vintage leather jacket worn in a quiet, secluded studio. While it maintains the essential DNA of Polo Green, it softens the original's sharp herbal resolve with smoother textures—less pine, less moss, more spice and smooth leather. It's ideal for cooler days, autumn and winter, where its complex green, spicy, and woody layers flourish without becoming overwhelming. The fragrance is sophisticated and timeless, balancing brightness with deep earthiness, making it wearable beyond youth, despite its association with masculinity. Many find it an excellent balance between modern ease and classic authenticity, though a few note a lack of originality in the drydown—some feel it's a safer, more polished take on the original rather than a bold evolution.