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There’s nothing like the festive season to inspire — and justify — reaching for the matchbox and firing up a scented — possibly overpriced — wick. After all, what better time of year to invest in atmosphere, cosiness and general good vibes?
Get the scent right and the whole room’s energy shifts: shadows and edges will soften, warmth can settle in, spirits lift, and a sense of ceremony — or sultriness — or party — vibes appear.
These options, not all new, not all explicitly festive —but undeniably excellent — deliver the magic for me time and time again
Bydredo Bibliotheque Candle
Coocooning, warm and irresistibly nostalgic - a bit like your favorite book with plum, vanilla, patchouli and polished leather. Sink in and stay all night. (£70, byredo.com)
Frederic Malle Joyeux Noel Candle
Frederic MalleFrederic Malle Joyeux Noel Candle
A pretty perfect Christmas distillation by masterful perfumer Dominic Ropion: Pine needles, incense and just enough midnight spice. (£115, libertylondon.com)
Jo Loves Amber Lime & Bergamot Candle Jo Loves Jo Loves Amber Lime & Bergamot Candle
A new favorite that sends a sexy, golden hum through the room with molten amber and fizzy citrus. Christmas catnip, if you will… (£55, joloves.com)
Homework Fire Candle HomeworkHomework Fire Candle
A smouldering, smoky hug of charred woods and a lick of spice, delivering instant atmosphere. This feels grounding, warm and safe ( £38,homeworkstore.com)
Jo Malone London Wood, Sage & Sea Salt Candle Jo Malone LondonJo Malone London Wood, Sage & Sea Salt Candle
Like a brisk and beautiful walk this clears the air and lifts the mood - which we all sometimes need at Christmas. Fresh, timeless and almost sexy. (£56,jomalone.co.uk)
Ffern Winter 26 Perfumers CandleFfern Ffern Winter 26 Perfumers Candle
A clever, comforting Somerset-made scent that tells an elemental winter tale in wax with bitter coffee, sweet Peru balsam and frankincense, (£89, fern.co)
Baobab Black Pearls Scented CandleBaobab Baobab Black Pearls Scented Candle
A pitch-perfect party companion, pairing dusky black rose with spicy ginger and zesty grapefruit, all housed in handblown glass. Let’s go! (£55, eu.baobabcollection.com)
Diptyque Sapin Candle Diptyque Diptyque Sapin Candle
Delivering the smell of freshly cut pine trees this is one of the best Christmas smell of all time according to me. Consider this a heart-felt PSA to grab yours before they go. Last year I left it too late and a city-wide goose-chase ensued. (£72, diptyqueparis.com)
Maison Martin Margiela By the Fireplace Maison Martin MargielaMaison Martin Margiela By The Fireplace Candle
Smoky woods, roasted chestnut and vanilla deliver the ultimate comfort. Just add a cashmere blanket and a loaded plate of mince pies (£55, cultbeauty.co.uk)