The 10 Most Coveted Candles of All Time

Can candles be celebrities? If so, Diptyque’s Baies would be one. It’s been the undisputed crown jewel of the brand’s collection since 1983. Itis instantly recognizable, and has even been dubbed “the scent of Paris.” It’s the candle you’ll spot in every influencer’s apartment, luxury hotel lobby, and fashion boutique dressing room—the distinctive black lettering on the white oval label has become the unofficial status symbol of the candle world. Its lightly fruity scent profile strikes that elusive balance that is sophisticated enough for connoisseurs yet approachable enough for newcomers to the luxury candle scene.

Le Labo’s Santal 26 may be one of the most recognizable scents in the luxury candle market, earning cult status through its distinctive aromatic profile. The candle features an aristocratic blend that balances gentle, smoky, and leathery notes. Originally created when Le Labo launched in 2006, the Santal fragrance was then commissioned by Ian Schrager in a slightly smokier custom version to scent the Gramercy Park Hotel. The fragrance has also been made into room sprays and eventually inspired the brand’s most famous personal fragrance, Santal 33.

Flamingo Estate’s Roma Heirloom Tomato has emerged as the brand’s signature scent and one of their most iconic products. This vegetable-based soy candle combines notes of tomato vine, basil, and black pepper to create a distinctly herbaceous fragrance. Hand-poured in Los Angeles in a recyclable green glass vessel, it has garnered a devoted following for its ability to neutralize kitchen odors while creating an atmosphere reminiscent of Sicilian garden dinner parties. The candle’s popularity has earned it a spot on Oprah’s Favorite Things list and generated over 500 five-star reviews, with customers consistently praising its unique green-forward aroma that captures a «true interpretation of a physical garden space.»

Malin + Goetz’s Cannabis Candle has secured its position as one of the brand’s most recognizable products, despite—or perhaps because of—its somewhat misleading name. The fragrance doesn’t actually smell like cannabis but rather offers a sophisticated herbal blend that has attracted a devoted following since its introduction. The scent profile features a complex layering of notes including bergamot, black pepper, fig, and magnolia, anchored by a base of cedarwood, sandalwood, patchouli, and amber. It’s maintained consistent popularity across changing fragrance trends, with many customers noting its exceptional throw that quickly fills rooms without becoming overwhelming.

Bibliothèque has established itself as the bibliophile’s candle of choice since joining Byredo’s collection. Originally created as a room spray before popular demand transformed it into a candle, this best-selling scent captures the essence of a private library. The composition opens with velvety peach and plum, transitions through a heart of violet and peony, and settles into a foundation of patchouli, leather, and vanilla. Its popularity ultimately led the Swedish brand to expand it into a personal fragrance collection, and, for many collectors, it represents the perfect balance between accessibility and exclusivity.

Capri Blue’s Volcano candle is the definition of cult-favorite. It’s built a cult-like following that has made it instantly recognizable to pretty much anyone. Housed in its signature cobalt blue jar, this bestseller combines sugared citrus and tropical fruits to create an energizing, dynamic fragrance that’s been described as reminiscent of a tropical vacation. First gaining widespread recognition through its presence in Anthropologie stores, the Volcano scent has expanded into a full product line including diffusers, room sprays, and personal care items.

Jo Malone London’s Red Roses candle is one of the brand’s enduring classics. The composition features seven different rose varieties, enhanced by crushed violet leaves and a hint of lemon for brightness and dimension. Presented in the signature cream glass vessel, it exemplifies Jo Malone’s minimalist British aesthetic that has become instantly recognizable in the luxury fragrance market.

Boy Smells’ Hinoki Fantôme is the brand’s all-time bestseller, offering a contemporary take on traditional woody fragrances that has resonated with a devoted following. Described as «warm and meditative with an element of earthy spice,» Hinoki Fantôme creates a grounding atmosphere that has contributed to its cult status.

Maison Louis Marie’s No.04 Bois de Balincourt is the brand’s signature scent. It draws inspiration from the founder’s family home, surrounded by an ancient mysterious forest where they took walks on a trail poetically named «Lover’s Lane.” The complex blend creates what many describe as «remarkably warm like fig, yet also light and earthy,» with some devotees declaring it «the best fragrance they ever smelled in their life.”