The best candles to scent your space as summer winds down
Late summer has its own energy. The days are still plenty long, but the light hits differently. The nights start to cool down, maybe the windows stay open a little longer, and suddenly, your home feels like it's ready for a reset. That's where the right candle comes in. It's a small seasonal shift that makes a big impact—bringing in scent notes that are a little deeper, a little moodier, but still fresh enough for right now.
These candles are designed to bridge the gap between summer and fall. Think sweet fig and warm sandalwood, green stems and smoky woods with a touch of spice. They're made to elevate your space, calm your mind, and yes—look great on your coffee table or nightstand. Burn one as you wind down, host friends or maybe you just want your place to look and feel like you've got it together. And it makes the time you spend at home a whole lot more enjoyable. We've pulled together our current favorites, so take a look and make your choice.
Burn time: 50 hours
This opens with the zesty brightness of bergamot, then softens into the fresh, green scent of just-cut grass. It settles with a cool, grounding hit of sage, creating a clean, earthy blend with a touch of wildness.
$38 by Boy Smells
Burn time: 40-50 hours
The brand calls this an “East Coast kid's vision of western waves, towering palms and blooming bushes basking in vivid California sunshine.” Made exclusively for their Venice shop, it's got notes of ocean air, fresh cut palm leaves and sweet jasmine. It's summery without feeling too sunny.
$70 by D.S. & DURGA
Burn time: 60 hours
A staple scent with sandalwood, vetiver, and amber. It's clean, creamy, and lingers in just the right way—perfect for late-night writing or early morning coffee.
$38 by Maison Louis Marie
Burn time: 55 hours
Crafted with bespoke perfume and essential oils, this blend of vetiver, citrus and pepper from Thailand gives off vibes that are dark and mysterious. A little sexy, a little dangerous.
$52 / $46.80 by Tatine
Burn time: 70 hours
Inspired by Lone Pine, California—a spot in the desert where many classic Western films were shot, this handsome candle has a warm, rustic scent with notes of charred hickory and sweet amber.
$68 by Buck Mason
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Burn time: 50 hours
A sustainable option with a warm soul—notes of green moss, campfire smoke, and damp forest floor. It burns clean, arrives with compostable packaging, and can be refilled.
$55 by Keap
Burn time: 60 hours
This popular candle captures the supple, green essence of balmy nights in the garden. It's got an intoxicating aroma of herbaceous, peppery earth, green vines and tarragon. Think of it as summer's last breath.
$64 by Flamingo Estate
Experts recommend trimming your wicks to ¼” length prior to lighting and this pragmatic tool will reach deep into jars to help maintain the wick. Plus, it catches the sooty snipped remnants so you can easily discard it.
$15 by Fill Mill
This adjustable lighter doesn't mess with flames or fuel. It uses an electric current to ignite a candle's wick quickly and the adjustable head allows it to reach deep into any vessel.
$12.99 / $7.99 by RONXS
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