This old stylist's trick is incredibly easy to pull off. Rather than using a group of matching candles, mix the colors and heights of tapered or pillar candles. This works best when...

...you stick to variations on the same general color group. For example, use deep pink, purple, and blue candles to fill a candelabra or line a mantelpiece with red, orange, and yellow candles. It's a simple idea, but it can make a centerpiece look very chic.

OTHER IDEAS
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Photos: Victor Schrager for Real Simple, Martha Stewart Living