Indulge your candle-collecting loved ones this festive season with the most exquisite candles handpicked by our discerning editors. While candles often find their place among various gift guides, their beauty and benefits deserve a spotlight of their own. Did you know that beyond their enchanting glow, candles have a rich history dating back over 5,000 years, traced back to the Ancient Egyptians who crafted rushlights from reeds and animal fat?
The mesmerising flicker of a candle's flame has a profound impact, offering relaxation and tranquillity. Not only do they illuminate, but scented candles, infused with fragrant oils like fig & cassis, blackcurrant nutmeg, and bergamot & oud, can elevate spaces with their luxurious aromas. These premium oils, a far cry from ancient practices, now craft sophisticated scents that linger long after the candle is extinguished.
Our experts, deeply entrenched in the world of luxury fragrances, have meticulously sourced, curated, and tested an array of candles. From exquisite packaging to delightful notes and extended burn times, we've narrowed down the best to cater to the most discerning candle enthusiasts. Each candle has been carefully chosen to offer not just light, but an experience—a moment of repose a touch of luxury.
Crafted with precision and passion, the Never Go Alone Edition 01 Sandstone candle transcends the realm of mere fragrance, unfolding into an immersive sensory journey. Its symphony of earthy sandalwood, cedar, and cardamom interlaces with the rejuvenating essence of eucalyptus and mint, all encapsulated within a hand-blown glass vessel. This vessel, meticulously designed to mimic the allure of sandstone, emanates a mesmerising orange glow, fostering an environment ripe with creativity and positive energy.
Available in two sizes, this candle offers not just a captivating scent but an enduring experience, extending up to 60 hours of uninterrupted burn time. As a testament to its commitment to elegance, it comes paired with a traditional matchbox, some elevation with a touch of sophistication.
A testament to craftsmanship and creativity, this candle by design powerhouse Paul Smith embodies a fusion of artistic flair and artisanal excellence, a testament to the design DNA synonymous with the British brand. Infused with a sophisticated medley of grapefruit, amber, pimento, and cedarwood, this candle doesn't merely emit a fragrance—it unfolds an olfactory narrative. Handcrafted with meticulous attention to detail and blended using only premium-grade ingredients, it guarantees an unparalleled diffusion of exquisite scents that elevate your space.
Encased in a tinted glass vessel that complements the fragrance's sophistication, this candle also boasts a versatile lid, a nod to Paul Smith's affinity for functionality in design. Once the candle's captivating story concludes, repurpose the vessel as a stylish pen holder, a home for thriving plants, or an elegant solution for organising your cosmetics.
Beyond being a source of delightful fragrance, this candle transforms into a timeless piece that seamlessly integrates into your daily life, adding a touch of Paul Smith's creative ethos to your space.
Step into a winter wonderland with the Neve Fresca Candle from Acqua di Parma, an exclusive olfactory journey encapsulating the pristine beauty of a snowy landscape. This limited-edition fragrance intricately weaves together the freshness of newly fallen snow glistening in sunlight with a delicate blend of vibrant citrus, invigorating cyclamen, and the welcome aroma of velvety musk and smooth sandalwood.
Housed within a luminous yellow glass jar adorned with symbols of luck from diverse cultures, including the goldfish, a symbol of prosperity and fidelity, this candle offers more than just a fragrance; it's an experience steeped in cultural symbolism and wintry charm. As the candle burns, the harmonious blend of scents fills the air, transforming your space into an ethereal haven reminiscent of serene, sunlit snowscapes.
With a burn time of up to 50 hours, this candle promises an extended aromatic journey through the crisp of winter.
Venture into an ethereal realm with the INTO THE MYSTIC candle by AJA Botanicals, a meticulously handcrafted candle designed to transport you to a natural sanctuary. Composed of a harmonious blend of pure essential oils such as cedarwood, oakmoss, lavender, and galbanum, this candle encapsulates the very essence of the mystical and invites the energy of nature into your home.
Crafted from a natural wax blend consisting of coconut, soya, and beeswax, each ingredient is carefully selected for its eco-conscious and sustainable properties, this candle embodies the embodiment of Mother Earth's essence. The warm, woody tones infuse your surroundings with an earthy embrace, fostering an atmosphere that encourages a deep connection with nature and facilitates moments of transformation and introspection.
As the candle burns, the fragrance unfurls, weaving a tapestry of fragrant notes that evoke the calmness of a forest, inviting you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and renewal. With a burn time of 40 hours, this evocative aroma provides an enduring sensory experience, allowing you to bask in the mystical ambience and embrace the transformative power of nature within the comfort of your space.
Moroccan Amber holds a special place in the world of fragrances due to its exceptional rarity and captivating aroma. Sourced from the resin of ancient trees found in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, this amber exudes an unparalleled richness and depth that is unmatched by other varieties. It's revered for its rarity and distinctive scent profile, making it a prized and sought-after ingredient in perfumery. The resin's journey from these remote mountains to the creation of a scent involves a meticulous extraction process, contributing to its exclusivity and allure.
The uniqueness of Moroccan Amber lies in its complex aroma, which carries warm, resinous, and earthy notes, often coupled with a sweet and slightly spicy character. This exotic scent evokes a sense of mystery, sophistication, and warmth, transporting you to ancient marketplaces infused with the essence of rich spices and precious resins. Its depth and complexity stimulate a unique olfactory experience, creating an atmosphere that is both inviting and enigmatic.
The inclusion of sweet patchouli, heliotrope, bergamot, and a hint of eucalyptus in the NEST New York Moroccan Amber-scented candle accentuates the allure of this rare ingredient. Together, these notes enhance the depth and complexity of the fragrance, weaving an exotic tale that tantalises the senses. Encased in an elegant glass vessel etched with frosted stripes, this candle offers an extended burn time of 75-100 hours, allowing you to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Moroccan Amber, setting the stage for a truly indulgent and enchanting sensory journey.
Embark on a mesmerising equatorial journey through Granado's perfumery universe with the Tropical Exuberance Collection. This trio of mini candles—Folia, Boemia, and Jardim Real—pays homage to the opulent and vibrant essence of Brazilian flora and fauna, capturing the country's rich biodiversity. Each candle encapsulates the lush beauty of Brazilian forests, celebrating the vibrant scents that emerge from this natural paradise.
Handmade with meticulous care using 100% natural coconut oil vegetable wax and boasting a high concentration of perfume, these candles promise more than just fleeting scents—they offer a lasting aromatic embrace. Infused with the essence of Brazilian botanicals, these candles become vessels of fragrant illumination, transforming your surroundings into an immersive experience of tropical exuberance. So illuminate your space with these invigorating and captivating scents that echo the vibrancy of Brazil's landscapes.
Elevate your home and aura with the Revolution De La Fleur candle—a fusion of ylang-ylang, jasmine, and frangipani that transforms your home into a haven of relaxation and escape. At its heart, the ylang-ylang note, known for its ability to restore feminine energy and soothe tensions, takes centre stage. The addition of Moroccan jasmine and sandalwood, further enriches this scent bouquet, inviting you to cocoon in pure paradise.
It's more than just a scent—this vegan, non-toxic candle, crafted from 100% vegetable wax, radiates a calming sanctuary, promising up to 48 hours of bliss.
Invite a piece of serenity and history into your space with this Somali Frankincense candle from anatomē. You are instantly transported to a faraway land with this exquisite candle—a luxury blend of rare fragrances carefully crafted to soothe the senses. Sourced from Boswellia trees in the horn of Africa, Somali Frankincense carries an air of exclusivity and therapeutic value, celebrated for centuries for its calming and grounding effects.
This candle is a harmonious symphony, starting with delicate top notes of Geranium and Cornish Lavender that gently introduce a floral elegance. Moving into heart notes of Cedarwood, Clove, and Black Pepper, it weaves a captivating sensory landscape. Yet, it's the grounding base of Somali Frankincense, Vanilla, and Sandalwood is what truly elevates this fragrance, creating a realm of unique calm.
Beyond its aromatic allure, this candle beckons you to unwind, offering a serene sanctuary after a bustling day. Whether during meditation, a quiet read, or simply to set peaceful vibrations, it envelops your space in a cocoon of stillness. Not just a fragrance, its soothing properties foster restorative sleep, inviting you to a hidden cove of serenity for up to 47 hours—a luxurious and rare sensory experience promising to rejuvenate your home's spirit.
Step into a world of pure luxury with Sanctuary's Ruby Oud Candle. Your senses are sure to be stimulated by the rich allure of oud, the warmth of amber, and the exotic aroma of red saffron. Each note is intricately woven to create a masterpiece that embodies sophistication.
Crafted with a blend of natural shea wax, this candle is a testament to indulgence, promising not just a scent, but an experience. It extends up to 45 hours of sumptuous, aromatic pleasure, each flicker of the flame enveloping your space in an ambience of decadence.
The fragrance effortlessly transforms every corner into a haven of richness and elegance. The depth of oud, complemented by the comforting essence of amber and the spicy notes of red saffron, adds layers of complexity to this aromatic symphony.
Experience the epitome of luxury as the ruby glow of the candle casts a spell of warmth. Whether as a personal indulgence or a gift for a loved one, the Ruby Oud Candle is a journey into a world of exquisite sensory delight, an embodiment of sophistication that redefines luxury.
Experience chic elegance with the sophistication of this Wonderland Bloom candle. A true symphony of scents that embody elegance and charm. Picture a blend of peonies swirled with the zest of Sicilian lemon, the tropical allure of guava, and a hint of sweetness akin to pink candy floss. This combination creates an aromatic experience that's as chic as it gets.
At its heart lies an intricate composition containing a generous 20% perfume oil, ensuring a fragrance that not only defines luxury but lingers, enchanting your space for up to 40 hours. Each burn releases a wave of sophistication, infusing your surroundings with an irresistible aura of grace and style.
The candle's nuanced notes unfold delicately, casting an enchanting aura that speaks volumes about elegance and poise. The infusion of peonies lends a floral opulence, while Sicilian lemon adds a refreshing zest. Guava introduces a tropical vibrancy, and the subtle sweetness of pink candy floss wraps it all in an embrace of sophistication.
As the candle burns, it transforms your room into a haven of refined luxury. The infusion of perfume oils ensures a fragrance that isn't just fleeting but becomes an integral part of the atmosphere, leaving a lasting impression.
Embark on a unique journey with the Moon Garden candle, an infusion of scents designed to captivate your senses. The harmonious blend of Clove, Cassis, Apricot, Green Fig, and Basil, form the enchanting top notes. These delicate fragrances intertwine seamlessly, inviting you into an aromatic wonderland.
As the candle burns, it reveals its heart notes—a blend of Rose, Jasmine, and Iris—that infuse the air with a captivating floral elegance. Complementing these florals, the base notes of Woods, Vanilla, Musk, and Incense add depth to the experience, creating captivating charm in your space.
Hand-poured with meticulous attention to detail, this vegan-friendly candle boasts top-quality oil-blended wax and a pure cotton wick, ensuring a consistent and enduring fragrance release. What's more, this candle is produced using solar energy, perfect for the eco-conscious person in your life and offers 45-50 hours of mesmerising fragrance. Let the Moon Garden candle transport you to a serene and enchanting world of scents.
Candles should be enchanting but in terms of innovation, we invite you to embark on a mystical journey with Einar, the Icelandic Unicorn. Infused with a captivating blend of mandarin, vanilla, and cinnamon, this enchanting candle casts a warm glow, filling your space with an aura of wonder and a touch of magic.
Einar, renowned for its magical allure, lights up your room for up to 16 hours, enveloping your surroundings in a harmonious dance of fragrance. Encased in a beautifully designed eco-friendly gift box, this candle isn't just a source of light; it's an experience. As the flame flickers within its pure white form, Einar beckons you into a realm where imagination and serenity converge as it turns into an art piece. Let this ethereal candle transport you to a world of enchantment and intrigue.
Unwind amidst a serene oasis with the Cocon de Serenité Relaxing Candle. You'll be sure to experience the calming embrace of Provence's lavender, entwined delicately with sweet orange, bergamot, mandarin, and the subtle essence of geranium. Infused with a meticulously curated blend of essential oils from the region, renowned for their relaxation properties, this candle delivers a soothing aromatic haven.
Elegantly crafted to infuse your home with serenity, this candle is more than a fragrant delight; it's a promise of sheer bliss for up to 60 hours where each note has been carefully selected to evoke a sense of peace and well-being. The top and heart notes of mandarin meld seamlessly with the base note of rose, ensuring an immersive, aromatic experience that lingers.
Enriched with PDO (Protected Designation of Origin) lavender sourced from Provence, this exquisite candle is a testament to L'Occitane's dedication to authenticity and quality.
Step into a world where the scent of embers drifts across abandoned shores, (a tribute to the vast power of the ocean), with VII. Memento by SUN.DAY of London. It's a sensory voyage where whispers of embers weave tales along deserted shores, paying homage to the boundless might of the ocean. Handcrafted in small batches, this candle is a profound narrative of resilience and rebirth, a testament to shedding the weight of yesteryears.
As a delicate but resolute tide swells, the notes of fennel and coriander converge with the richness of Oak Moss, orchestrating a wave that curls and crashes, awakening deep reserves of courage and fostering the art of letting go. Infused with grounding frankincense, vetiver, and the smoky essence of juniper tar, this evocative blend resonates with the ethereal scent of driftwood embers, a homage to memories past and forgotten.
With a burn time of 50 hours, let this aromatic masterpiece illuminate your home, weaving a tapestry of strength, nostalgia, and resilience, encapsulated within the gentle flicker of candlelight.
Indulge in the intriguing duality of the TRYST + FORGIVENESS candle by Control & Chaos, a collaborative fragrance journey that celebrates life's unexpected contradictions. A fusion of mint and rose, this candle encapsulates a vibrant narrative woven through contrasting elements.
At its essence, soft moss and invigorating geranium anchor this olfactory journey. The candle's intriguing blend of top notes of basil and mint intersect elegantly with the delicate and powdery violet and rose, narrating a captivating tale of hope amidst the nuances of betrayal.
Meticulously crafted in England, this candle embodies sophistication and style, boasting a high percentage of fragrance for an intensified allure - an essential for fragrance lovers. With a burn time of 40 hours, immerse yourself in the intriguing fragrance symphony of TRYST + FORGIVENESS, a story brought to life through a harmonious blend of unexpected fragrances.
Escape to a lakeside paradise of Como, Garda or Liguria with this limited edition La Casa Sul Lago candle from Acqua Di Parma. Encased in a glass jar that mirrors the iconic Art Deco bottle, this candle's design embodies the essence of serene waters and vibrant blossoms, inviting you on a visual journey of the picturesque Italian lakeside scenery.
Let the fragrance whisk you away to mornings by the lake, where Calabrian bergamot, lily of the valley, and aquatic notes fill the air with the freshness of dew-kissed blooms. The candle's packaging, adorned with illustrations capturing the lakeside serenity, promises an olfactory experience akin to the gentle embrace of morning mist and the delicate touch of musk.
With a burn time of up to 50 hours, immerse yourself in the tranquil embrace of La Casa Sul Lago's exquisite fragrance, recreating the essence of peaceful lakeside mornings in the comfort of your own home.
Curated by fragrance aficionados Christopher Yu and Laurent Delafon, this candle reflects their expertise, offering the compelling scent of Anatolian Turkish Roses.
The Ostens Illumination Rose scented candle is a testament to their artistry, capturing the essence of Anatolian Turkish Roses in every flickering flame. Nestled within an elegantly designed mouth-blown glass, this modern masterpiece is more than just a candle—it's an olfactory revelation.
The alluring aroma of exotic red fruits permeates the air, creating an enchanting vibration that resonates with sophistication and elegance. Crafted from a meticulously hand-poured wax blend, this candle delivers a sumptuous fragrance journey that lasts up to 65 hours. Illuminate your space with the opulence of Anatolian Roses and the luscious tones of red fruits, transforming your home into a haven of mesmerizing scents and timeless elegance.
Discothéque Wag Club and Paradise Garage scented candles £54
Transport yourself to the electric atmosphere of the '70s and '80s disco era with these candles. Wag Club captures the essence of soulful beats and glamourous nights with a symphony of notes including limoncello, reminiscent of the warmth of a blazing sunset, and the vibrant hues that once adorned the dance floor. Meanwhile, Paradise Garage indulges the senses with the aroma of blackcurrant, the delicate essence of orange blossom, and a touch of Prince-esque glamour.
These candles encapsulate an era where people from all walks of life came together, unleashing their spirits on the dance floor. Crafted to evoke nostalgia and celebration, each vessel embodies the essence of these iconic moments, wrapped in a signature ombre 3-colour glass.
Tested to offer a burn time of 45 hours, these candles not only fill your space with captivating fragrances but also serve as captivating pieces, inviting you to relive the magic of those otherworldly aromas.
Experience the Sanctuary Signature scent through this three-wick candle, a lavish fusion of jasmine, grapefruit, and vanilla. Imagine the delicate aroma of blooming jasmine dancing amid the zesty freshness of grapefruit, balanced harmoniously by the warm, soothing essence of vanilla.
Formulated with a natural shea wax blend, this candle creates an atmosphere of serene luxury, encouraging moments of indulgent relaxation. Each flame dances gracefully on three wicks, illuminating your space with a comforting glow. This exquisite candle offers up to 26 hours of aromatic delight, inviting you to unwind and envelop yourself in a cocoon of tranquillity.
Encased in a captivating two-tone vessel, this candle isn't just a scent; it's an experience—a narrative crafted by the senses.
Imagine Paul Smith's adventures through the Nottinghamshire countryside during the crisp winter months, weaving through forests and embracing the essence of nature. The Storyteller candle encapsulates these inspirations, evoking the cosy warmth of fireside tales. Picture yourself surrounded by the comforting scent of aged wood logs crackling in the grate and homespun blankets enveloping you as you settle in for an evening of enchanting stories.
With each flicker of the flame, this rich, woody fragrance transports you to moments filled with nostalgia and tranquility. It's not just a scent but a journey—a tale waiting to be told in the ambiance it creates. This candle invites you to immerse yourself in its aromatic narrative, painting vivid scenes of winter landscapes and fireside gatherings, infusing your space with the soulful essence of Paul Smith's explorative spirit.
Words by Jheanelle Feanny
