Here’s the Candle You Should Buy Based on Your Design Aesthetic

updated Mar 10, 2021
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Credit: Kristan Lieb

Great things often come in small and unassuming packages, and nothing drives that point home better than candles. When you really think about it, candles serve so many different purposes: They provide extra lighting, circulate pleasant scents in the air, and set the mood of the room. But one of the things I appreciate most about candles is that they’re also extensions of our personal style. The vessel that a candle comes in is just as important as the way it smells, which is why you should also consider how it might complement the look of the room you’re placing it in. We’ve pulled together a list of candles to suit your favorite design aesthetic, from mid-century modern to bohemian. Whether you’re a color-loving maximalist or a simple and modest minimalist, there’s a candle here for you!

Mid-Century Modern

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Urban Outfitters
$24.00

The structure of this Paddywax candle would fit right in with any mid-century modern setting. Housed in a ceramic, hourglass-shaped vessel, the woodsy aromas of fig and vetiver will transform your home into a relaxing oasis.

2 / 3
West Elm
$70.00

This Palo Santo-scented bowl candle from West Elm is as stunning as it is timeless. It comes with four wicks, and the reusable metal vessel makes the perfect focal point for a mantel, coffee table, or bookshelf.

3 / 3
Urban Outfitters
$9.00
was $18.00

This candle is mid-century elegance in a jar. The tasseled lid adds flair and character to an already stunning candle. Scents available include Juniper Pine, Ylang Ylang, and Spiced Chai (pictured).

Boho

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Amazon
$19.98

If you gravitate toward all things funky, eclectic, and colorful, these portable tin candles are for you. Housed in decorative packaging, this set includes various scents like lavender, lemon, Mediterranean fig, and fresh spring. As the saying goes, variety is the spice of life!

2 / 3
West Elm
$31.50
was $35.00

This candle brightens rooms not only with its citrusy notes but also with a glass vase that's reminiscent of a desert sunset. Once the candle is used up, the jar can be repurposed for pen and pencil storage or even as a small vase.

3 / 3
Amazon
$31.08

The vintage look of this candle will instantly capture any boho-loving heart. The experience of lighting it is also a treat, since the wooden wick mimics the crackling sound of a fireplace.

Minimalist

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Nordstrom
$58.00

The clean white exterior of this candle is a minimalist's dream. True to its name, Cowshed's "Relax" candle is a calming blend of lavender and eucalyptus to help you unwind.

2 / 3
Amazon
$14.95

This simple and sophisticated candle is ideal for those who like a straightforward approach to home design.

3 / 3
Neiman Marcus
$74.00

No candle roundup is complete without Diptyque, a company with over 60 years in the business. Don't be fooled by the simplistic packaging of their coveted Baies candle; its aroma is a highly concentrated symphony of roses sweetened with black currant leaves.

Maximalist

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Amazon
$32.00

The abstract and playful print of this candle is anything but basic, and that's just how a maximalist likes it. This gardenia-and-lemon-scented candle burns up to 85 hours.

2 / 3
Urban Outfitters
$4.00

Talk about a statement piece! This candle becomes a work of art over time as the layers of colored wax create a dramatic effect when melting.

3 / 3
Uncommon Goods
$44.00

An ultimate nod to one of nature's most gorgeous objects, these geode candles would make a perfect addition to a maximalist's home. This candle is made by Louisiana-based creators Jimm Burris and Jeanne Brandt, who blend natural waxes to replicate the sparkle and depth of a halved geode.

Scandinavian

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AllModern
$22.00

This candle's subtle concrete packaging is perfect for a pared-down decor style. Both the neutral look and natural wood scents are clean, simple, and quintessentially Scandi.

2 / 3
27 Miles Malibu
$50.00

Simply put, this candle smells good and looks even better. The clay ridged jar is weighty and carefully crafted, while the candle's sage, leather, patchouli, and peppermint notes come together in perfect harmony.

3 / 3
Amazon
$62.95

Could we do Scandinavian-style decor justice without celebrating the lush origins of this region? No way! The "Hygge" candle by Skandinavisk is simplistic in its look but full of comforting scents like dried apples and cinnamon.