My Top 20 Favourite Scented Candles
Let's talk about candles. Specifically, scented candles—the kind that infuse your home with warmth, comfort, and a touch of luxury. As someone with an unabashed love for candles, narrowing down my top 20 favourites was a Herculean task. With so many amazing brands and fragrances to choose from, each candle on this list holds a special place in my heart. Some may say candles are like burning money, but for me, they're an investment in creating an atmosphere that delights the senses and soothes the soul. So, without further ado, let's dive into the aromatic world of my top 20 favourite scented candles of all time.
Filthy Rose combines the scent of Damson rose, Tobacco, Saffron, Amyris & Black pepper. I might be biased (I’m not) but this smells like heaven. If heaven had a few rogue angels lurking around, getting the others into trouble.
The Story:
I mean obviously, I had to start with our baby, Filthy Rose. Lia and I have been overwhelmed by how well she has been received. I suppose she’s best described by the story we wrote about her after a Marg or four….
She’s blinded by disco balls. Her sequinned catsuit is moulded to every curve. She’s late to the party. Her entrance is captivating. The alluring scent of musky rose entwines with the aroma of tobacco follows her across the dancefloor. She drinks, she dances, she exits, leaving an irresistible imprint of Champagne & Smoke. They Call her Filthy Rose.
It’s almost impossible for me to pick my favourite Diptyque scent but Feu de Bois is one I repeat purchase. Imagine a cosy pub with a log fire crackling on an icy cold winter day.
The Story:
Back in the swinging 60s, amidst the bohemian vibes of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, three artsy souls collided. Bonded by their passion for beauty, nature, and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, they sparked something magical.
Enter Diptyque—a gateway to a realm where dreams mingle with reality, where intimacy dances with universality. It's a space where creativity roams wild and imagination knows no bounds.
She’s probably JM’s most iconic scent and boy does she pack a punch. Pomegranate, raspberry and plum give you a sweet fruitiness, whilst the spiced Guaiacwood and pink pepper give it the depth making her a symphony of fruity sweetness and spice capturing the essence of sophistication in every flicker of the flame.
The Story:
Back in '99, Malone London decided to join The Estée Lauder Companies' crew, spreading its scent-sational vibes to 82 countries and beyond. This British brand isn't just about fragrances; it's a whole lifestyle. Picture luxurious products for your bath, body, and home, all wrapped up in one stylish package.
But here's the kicker: Malone London doesn't play by the rules of perfumery. Nope, they're all about throwing unexpected ingredients into the mix and creating concepts that are elegant yet downright playful. It's a world where scent reigns supreme, and let's be real, who can resist? That's why their fan base keeps growing—because Jo Malone London doesn't just sell fragrances; they sell an experience.
The name says it all, shoes off, sandy toes, waves cascading at your feet whilst the sun drenches your skin. The perfect companion for lazy afternoons.
The Story:
Maison Margiela, the brainchild of the enigmatic Belgian designer Martin Margiela, strolled into the fashion scene of Paris back in '88 and decided to shake things up. But this ain't your typical fashion house—oh no, it's a wild mix of masculine and feminine vibes, blurring the lines between genders like a fashion Picasso.
Fast forward to 2009, they teamed up with the fragrance wizards at L'Oréal to drop their first scent, Replica. Now, this isn't just any ol' perfume; it's a time machine in a bottle. Inspired by their '94 collection, it's all about capturing those moments we hold dear. Lazy Sunday Morning? Beach Walk? Yep, they've got scents for those. Pop the cap, take a whiff, and bam—you're instantly transported to your own personal nostalgia trip.
I love this brand; it makes me so happy. Overose brings joy to my home with its Croissant candle, infusing the air with the irresistible aroma of a Parisian bakery. Plus, it's gluten-free! The only disappointment is for guests entering who think there’s a sweet treat in the oven awaiting them. Sorry not sorry!
The Story:
In 2016, Overose burst onto the Parisian scene, bringing with it a whirlwind of luxury fragrances. With their dedication to bold choices and endless creativity, they've carved out a space that's undeniably modern and artsy.
But here's the thing: Their scented candles aren't just pretty—they're practical too, designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life. Overose's mantra? More well-being, more pleasure, more emotion. They're all about keeping it real, with a focus on sincerity, individuality, and laser-like concentration. Plus, you can spot their signature monochromatic pink and holographic candles from a mile away.
Nest's Coconut and Palm candle is a tropical paradise in a jar, reminiscent of sipping on a refreshing piña colada under swaying palm trees, what’s not to love?
The Story:
Back in '94, Laura Slatkin changed the game with Slatkin & Co, bringing luxury home fragrance to the masses when it was still a niche thing. With scents so sophisticated they'd make your nose do a happy dance, Slatkin & Co quickly climbed to the top of the luxury fragrance ladder.
But Laura didn't stop there. Nope, she went on to whip up bespoke scents for over 100 of the swankiest brands out there. Yet, in the midst of it all, she saw a gap in the market and thought, "Why not create my own brand?" And just like that, NEST New York was born.
I love this vanilla candle. Its rich, warm and cosy, just like wrapping yourself up in a cashmere blanket on a chilly day.
The Story:
“I’m a strong believer and advocate of self-care, self-love and helping others with micro daily habits to practice mindfulness, hence the birth of DEFREI to bring calm, peace and tranquillity to people's spaces and lives.” - founder, Danny Defreitas
Ever thought about the power of small daily habits in finding peace and tranquility? Well, Danny Defreitas certainly has. As the founder of DEFREI, he's all about spreading the love for self-care, self-love, and mindfulness through tiny yet impactful actions.
Bergamot is one of my favourite scents in a fragrance. It’s so uplifting and energising. The perfect candle when you need a little something, something to enhance your day.
The Story:
They’re all about that city vibe—diverse, inclusive, and full of energy! The products? They're made for every skin type, tone, and gender out there. The mission? Simple: top-notch skincare, fragrances, and candles that seamlessly fit into your modern life. Oh, and they are not hiding anything. The ingredients? Totally transparent. From sensitive to tough-as-nails skin, the products are gentle, effective, and oh-so-efficient.
Take a sensory journey to Tuscany with Goutal's Un Air d'Hadrien candle, where relaxation and bliss await amidst dreamy landscapes. Who else has a passport screaming to be stamped?
The Story:
Since 1981, the Maison de Haute Parfumerie has been the go-to for the art of perfuming life's moments. They are all about crafting delicate, unique scents that weave seamlessly into your story—whether it's a journey, a memory, or just a summer fling. From heartfelt declarations to bursts of laughter, the fragrances speak volumes.
DS and Durga weave tales with their scents, and Big Sur After Rain is a captivating ode to the rugged beauty of California's coast. Top down, sunglasses on, foot on the gas… a roadtrip in candle form.
The Story:
Back in '08, David Seth Moltz and his architect wifey, Kavi Ahuja Moltz, decided to shake up the fragrance game by launching D.S. & Durga in Brooklyn. And get this: David taught himself how to whip up those sweet scents.
Fast forward to 2024, and guess what? The cool kids at Manzanita Capital, who also own Diptyque, snagged up D.S. & Durga. Looks like this Brooklyn-born brand is going places!
Acqua di Parma's Luce Di Colonia candle evokes the essence of sun-drenched Italy, with its refreshing citrus notes transporting you to lazy summer days. It’s the most exquisite lemon sorbet on a summer’s day.
The Story:
It's 1916, and the Italian baron Carlo Magnani is jet-setting across the cultural hotspots—Paris, London, New York. Inspired by the dapper dudes he meets, he decides to cook up a fragrance fit for the ages: Colonia. Fresh, modern, and oozing Italian charm.
Fast forward to the 1950s, and Colonia hits the big time when Hollywood stars, visiting Italy for its cinematic brilliance, fall head over heels for its classy scent. Today, Acqua di Parma is the name to know in luxury, churning out Italian craftsmanship masterpieces like nobody's business.
Get ready to boogie with Discotheque's Crisco Disco candle. I love the creamy element of vanilla combined with the fresh energetic spritz of blood orange.
The Story:
These guys are firm believers that every fragrance should pack a punch and every candle should tell a tale. They don't mess around when it comes to crafting candles. Each step of the process—from wick to wax to finish—is meticulously curated. Their quality control is like a bouncer. If it’s not top-notch, it’s not getting past the velvet rope.
If you need a little TLC, light this candle. Its haven of tranquillity, perfect for unwinding after a long day.
The Story:
Way back when, there was a simple idea: bring a slice of countryside chill to hectic city life.
Fast forward to today, Cowshed’s spas and all-natural therapies are making waves worldwide. We're talking originality, character, and a serious commitment to quality that's as uncompromising as Theo’s morning coffee.
This candle makes your home smell like it’s hugging you.
The Story:
Ostens are all about crafting fragrances that are pure magic, using only the best ingredients from around the globe. They have five top-notch master perfumers on their team with only one simple instruction: dream big. No briefs, no budgets—just pure, unadulterated creativity. The result? Ostens—the ultimate collection of six killer Eau de Parfums, each one inspired by a single superstar ingredient.
The ultimate indulgence for relaxation. My favourite bath and shower oil – in a candle.
The Story:
For over 30 years, AA have been dishing out the secrets of essential oils. Back in the '70s, founders Geraldine Howard and Sue Beechey were all about that therapeutic life, diving headfirst into the world of aromatherapy. They learned the ropes from the best—Micheline Arcier, a big name in the aromatherapy game who'd studied under the OG pioneers Marguerite Maury and Jean Valnet M.D. And let me tell you, they were hooked from the get-go. It was the start of a beautiful love affair with all things aromatic.
I love the scent of these candles. Maybe it’s because I love a trip to an Anthro store and this is the scent of them. They are also a great gift as the Volcan jar they come in is gorgeous. It captures the essence of exotic fruits and lush greens in every breath.
The Story:
In 1992, Anthropologie sprang to life in Wayne, Pennsylvania, and since then, it's become the go-to spot for peeps hunting down a carefully curated blend of threads, accessories, knick-knacks, and home goodies that scream 'you'. Drawing inspiration from the realms of fashion, art, and good old-fashioned hosting, they're all about hooking their customers up with standout stuff and top-notch service, whether you're clicking away online or strolling through one of their stores in the UK or North America.
Let Space NK's Mykonos Blue candle transport you to the tranquil shores of Greece, where basil and seaweed mingle in the sea breeze. The ultimate Mykonos muse.
The Story:
Gather round, because I'm about to spill the tea on Space NK's journey. Back in '91, when flannel was all the rage and Friends was just hitting TV screens, Space NK burst onto the scene. They kicked things off in Covent Garden in '93, not just slinging smoothies, but also dishing out indie fashion labels and beauty goodies you couldn't find anywhere else—think Diptyque, By Terry, and NARS.
Word got out reallll quick, and before you knew it, they were popping up all over the UK and Ireland, spreading their beauty gospel far and wide. Whether you're after that perfect lipstick or a skincare saviour, Space NK's got you covered, darling.
Who would have thought a candle smelling exactly like vine tomatoes would be so good? Well, this is. It is the perfect kitchen candle. It fills the whole room with the juicy, fresh scent of the plumpest tomatoes you’ve ever tasted. You can almost taste them when it’s lit. The cucumber version is also pretty wonderful, especially for someone like me who eats about 3 a week, yes really.
The Story:
Loewe's been in the game since 1846—yep, you heard that right, way back in the day when they were all about leather goods fit for Spanish royalty.
Fast forward to '96, and they got scooped up by the luxury big shots over at LVMH. But it wasn't until 2013 when things really got spicy. Enter Jonathan Anderson, the British visionary who gave Loewe a serious glow-up.
The second I smelt this candle, without even seeing the name, I guessed it was based on my favourite place in the world: Formentera. Imagine salty skin and the clearest, bluest sea you’ve ever seen. Now let your hot skin dive into the water, that is this candle.
The Story:
Picture this: it's 2009, and you've got Francis Kurkdjian, the master perfumer, teaming up with Marc Chaya, the brains behind the fragrance house.
Together, they're all about bringing a whole new vibe to the fragrance game—something sensual, generous, and bursting with goodness. It's like they're painting a whole new picture of French savoir-faire and lifestyle. Talk about a match made in scent heaven.
These candles are unique ornaments as well as luxurious scents. This scent is a vibrant celebration of summer, transporting you to the sun-drenched streets of Seville lined with orange trees.
The Story:
The legend of the Ginori Manufactory started in Doccia, near Florence, where Marquis Carlo Andrea Ginori decided to turn his passion for porcelain into something truly extraordinary. Fast forward to today, and the tradition is still going strong. We're talking about a brand that's all about turning porcelain into pure, unadulterated beauty. It's like they've been on a quest for gorgeousness since day one.
I always say that in a world filled with chaos and madness, candles offer a sense of solace, a moment of peace amidst the craziness. Whether it's the familiar crackle of a log fire or the exotic fragrance of a far-off destination, each candle on this list holds the power to transport us to another time and place (Hi, Ibiza!), if only for a few seconds. So, let's embrace the aroma, bask in the glow, and find comfort in the flickering flame. After all, in the dance of light and scent, there is magic to be found.
Love,
Lisa xx
As always, I only ever recommend products I would use myself. This post may contain affiliate links that at no additional cost to you, I may earn a small commission.
This is mostly spent on repairing the shoes Diddy keeps chewing.