The Real Chic Life

One thing that truly helps me keep my spirits up during peak winter? Candles.

I love scentscaping—the art of curating the scent of your home by layering candles or diffusers throughout different rooms. After the holidays, there are a few directions you can take with scent. You can lean fully into winter with woody, smoky notes (LAFCO Feu de Bois will always have my heart and Trudon Ernesto is a crowd pleaser), cozy ambers, or indulgent gourmands like Nest Winter Chai. You can opt for seasonless, spa-like scents that feel clean and grounding. Or—you can take a completely different approach and embrace a vacation mindset, using scent to mentally transport yourself somewhere warm and sun-soaked.

Normally, I’m firmly in the first camp. But this winter, I decided to experiment with candles I’d typically reserve for spring or summer—and the mood boost has been undeniable.

Last summer, I splurged on Trudon Reggio, which smells like citrus and pure sunshine, and Abd El Kader, a fresh, herbal blend reminiscent of Moroccan mint tea in a lush herb garden. I’ve been using both primarily under a candle warmer to extend their longevity. While they’ve softened slightly over time, they still fill my bedroom with a transportive, almost escapist scent. Paired with my indoor plants—currently in full bloom along my bedroom windows—I wake up each morning to an atmosphere that feels almost spring-like. That sensory shift sets a noticeably more positive tone for my day.

If you’re craving a similar lift, I highly recommend leaning into citrus, herbal garden, lush florals, or tropical notes this winter. There are great options across price ranges, but if you’re interested in treating yourself or someone special to a luxury scent, I’ve shared my top 10 luxury candles to boost your mood all winter long below.

1. Trudon Reggio

Sun-drenched citrus with mandarin and grapefruit peel — like a Mediterranean afternoon in your living room.

2. Diptyque Baies

An iconic classic: blackcurrant leaves and rose that feel as vibrant as a summer garden.

3. LAFCO Jungle Bloom

Lush and tropical with verdant green notes — this candle is Tonya’s signature home scent and I love it too because it instantly transports me to an exotic paradise.

4. Trudon Abd El Kader

Fresh Moroccan mint, basil, and blackcurrant bud — herbal, cool, and invigorating.

5. Diptyque Roses

Pure, elegant rose without heaviness — like walking into a blooming English garden.

6. Nest Bamboo

Green, clean, and spa-like — a calming reset in candle form.

7. Flamingo Estate Night Blooming Jasmine and Damask Rose

A soft, romantic floral that feels both luxurious and joyful — perfect for cozy evenings in.

8. Overose Nudesse

Fresh rain soaked earth layered with rose petals — a warm scent that feels both joyful and serene.

9. Flamingo Estate Roma Heirloom Tomato

An unexpected favorite: bright, green tomato leaf with basil and citrus that feels alive and energizing.

10. Nest Grapefruit

Zesty, juicy grapefruit with a hint of floral — the ultimate pick-me-up for gray winter days.

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If your winter is feeling stagnant or heavy, scent is one of the easiest and most luxurious ways to shift your mood and elevate everyday life. A thoughtfully chosen candle can transform your space and your mindset. What are you currently burning? Let me know below.

Xo, Courtney