9 of the best scented candles for summer

A candle may simply be a wick and some wax to some, but it also has one more very important feature and that is this: fragrance. Yes, a candle contains hypnotising notes that when ignited creates an enveloping scent that turns any house into a warm, inviting home.

Considering our sense of smell is very personal – one hint of a mesmerising fragrance can evoke all sorts of emotions, memories and even food cravings – it’s no wonder we’re so picky when it comes to deciphering which home fragrance works best for us. Our mood does depend on it, after all.

So, this summer we’re encouraging you to light up with whichever scent hits the right note for you. Be it a feminine floral, an energising citrus or a sensual wood, it’s always best to follow your nose…

9 OF THE BEST SCENTED CANDLES FOR SUMMER

Feminine florals

#1. Circa Home Perfect Spaces Candle in Lilac & Orchid
Want something that’s feminine without being overly girly? This handcrafted candle is just that. Yes, its floral medley of orchid, hyacinth and tulip notes give it a ladylike touch, but its crisp notes of freshly cut grass and white pepper give it a brilliant lively touch.

#2. Jo Malone Home Candle in Peony & Blush Suede
The scent of fresh peonies in full bloom – is there anything better? Alongside its fellow flirty notes of red apple, jasmine, rose and gillyflower, this will transform your humble home into a floral delight.

#3. Diptyque Candle in Roses (meccacosmetica.com.au, $78)
Roses. Divine, delicate roses. They’re universally loved, and there’s a reason these captivating flowers make the perfect home aroma – they have a wonderful knack for imparting a tender, loving glow.

Energising citruses

#1. Glasshouse Triple Scented Candle in Bora Bora Cilantro and Orange Zest
Bora Bora is known with its clear, sparkling waters. This candle takes this popular holiday destination’s vitality, energy and liveliness and blends it into a scent that contains invigorating notes of tangy cilantro and orange blossom.

#2. Dusk Soy Candle in Coconut Lime Verbena (dusk.com.au, $19.99)
Maybe it’s its fine fragrances sourced from around the world, or maybe it’s its stylish jar, but either way this oh-so-refreshing candle makes your home look – and feel – a little fancy.

#3. Natio Island Bouquet Aromatic Candle
There’s no need to board a plane to take a trip to paradise – the creamy coconut, vanilla and caramel notes in this delight will whisk you away to your happy place instantly. The mix of lime, orange and grapefruit will also make sure you’re feeling peppy and up beat while you’re there.

Sensual woods

#1. Ecoya Madison Jar Candle in Kowhai & Cedarwood
This candle ticks two important boxes: it’s eco-friendly and it smells marvellous. The natural soy wax contains a warming blend of amber and cedarwood to leave you utterly hypnotised and entwined in its aroma.

#2. Molton Brown Firefly Embers Medio Candela
Molton Brown is the king of masculine fragrances that melt the hearts of women worldwide – not just men. This scent is provocative, sexy and charming all at the same time, mainly thanks to its blend of birch oil, cedarwood and black leather accord, and warming notes of amber and warm woods.

#3. Bomb Cosmetics Tin Candle in Warm Espresso
Want a hint of coffee aromas without the addictive hit of caffeine? This almost-edible candle is almost good enough to eat thanks to its rich, sensual notes of caramel and chocolate. The duo of vetivert java and black pepper essential oils also give its aroma a fresh, spicy hit.

Do you use candles to give your home a fragrant finish? What are you favourite summer notes? Which of these home fragrances would you like to try most?