How to Choose a Home Scent Based on Your Astrological Sign
I might be a little biased, since one of the first things Aliza Kelly Faragher told me was that my name, which rhymes and has always made me weirdly self-conscious, holds a lot of power in spellwork and spiritual practice. Let’s just say it was a good way to kick off a conversation with Allure magazine’s resident astrologer and the author of the forthcoming book, The Mixology of Astrology: Cosmic Cocktail Recipes for Every Sign (it drops August 7). But real talk: I truly loved chatting with her about how the stars can reveal our tastes and proclivities about, well, all the things. Aliza’s book is all about helping you find the right cocktail for your sign, so why not also find the optimal home fragrance to surround you while you’re sipping said drink? Add some takeout and Netflix to the equation, and that’s best life living.
Back to the matter at hand: Home fragrance. Can’t bear to buy another blah vanilla candle? Use your stars to find your perfect home scent match via Aliza’s cosmic insight below. We also provided specific recommendations for special, splurge-y candles here but also included your sign’s best fragrant note friends, so you can source something on your own, too.
Aries: Mustard, Peppermint, Honeysuckle
If you’re an Aries, then you probably already know you’re fiery, spontaneous, and proactive. For those reasons, Aliza recommends a lively, spicy scent to match. There’s nothing more energizing than peppermint, so go the soothing, strong route over something truly peppery.
Our pick: Pink Peppermint Metallic Pink Signature Jar at Capri Blue, $30
Taurus: Rose, Poppy, Violet
Aliza says Tauruses gravitate toward romantic, floral scents—not just one flower but the whole blend of a bouquet. “Tauruses want a full-sensory experience, so they look for rich indulgent smells that work on multiple levels with multiple notes,” says Aliza.
Our pick: Field + Fleur Peony Blush Candle at Hillhouse Naturals, $37
Gemini: Lavender, Myrtle
It’s no surprise that the great connector sign, Gemini, favors fragrances that bring people together. It’s all about a non-polarizing smell—try something lavender. It’s a crowd-pleaser for morning, evening, or night and will help you and you houseguests find your chill.
Our pick: Lavender 2-Wick Candle at Linnea’s Lights, $34
Cancer: Geranium, Lily, Water Lily
Cancer is a water sign, but it’s also the sign of the mother. “So look for something with a maritime quality but also a softness,” says Aliza. “Cancer’s number one priority is finding something that makes the home feel cozy because they’re nurturers.”
Our pick: Chesapeake Bay Water Lily Pear Glass Jar Candle at Target, $15
Leo: Saffron, Rosemary, Sunflower, Marigold
“Leos are drama queens and need a larger-than-life home scent to match their personality,” says Aliza. Shop for a sunny, beautiful home fragrance with lots of dynamic notes. Even the jar on this Paddywax candle is loud.
Our pick: Mercury Prism Spices Citrus + Saffron Candle at Paddywax, $19
Virgo: Linen, Cotton
The analytical and perfectionist side of the Virgo personality draws them to beautiful but simple one-note scents. They’re best off with clean smells. Try anything fresh linen or cotton-y.
Our pick: Crisp Candle at Peacock Alley, $40
Libra: Hydrangea, Poplar, Mint
This air sign is very aesthetic and gravitates toward beautiful things and chic, elegant packaging. Libras are ruled by Venus in mind, so don’t be afraid of something feminine and classy. You’re extra, and you know it, and that’s why the 62-ingredient Le Labo Laurier 62 candle is for you. Its tagline is “beauty comes from chaos,” after all.
Our pick: Laurier 62 Candle at Le Labo, $75
Scorpio: Blackberry, Aloe, Witch Hazel
Scorpios tend to be intense, and they need their home aroma to be on their level. Aliza suggests anything deep and complex.
Our pick: Reserve Ink by Linnea’s Lights Candle at Candles Off Main, $39
Sagittarius: Cinnamon, Currant, Sandalwood
This fire sign is associated with travel, so Aliza says to embrace home fragrances that are on exotic side. They’ll speak to your wanderlust and transport you to far away places until you hop on the next plane.
Our pick: Marrakesh Candela at Tocca, $42
Capricorn: Thyme, Elm, Pine, Willow
Grounded is the state straightforward Capricorns feel their most comfortable in. Embrace an earthy quality. “Capricorns are serious, no B.S. kind of people, so go for an aromatic, rich woodsy scent,” says Aliza.
Our pick: White Tea & Cedar Candle at Gibson & Dehn, $38
Aquarius: Orchard, Golden Reign
“Aquarians are the revolutionaries,” says Aliza. “They love to break the mold, so they’re drawn to unusual fragrances.” Look for something with a leathery, unique, almost masculine smell.
Our pick: Maison Margiela ‘REPLICA’ Jazz Club Lidded Candle at Barneys, $62
Pisces: Cucumber, Sage
Think spa for your home scent, Pisces. “This last sign of the zodiac is the most psychic and spiritual,” says Aliza. “Pisces want their homes to be a sanctuary for spiritual wellness, so find something therapeutic-smelling.”
Our pick: Pop Cucumber Candle at Jonathan Adler, $38