Fragrance is the oft-overlooked aspect of interior design that can make all the difference. A well-chosen candle or diffuser transforms a space, creating an ambiance and marking a home as uniquely yours. Sydney Sweeney, for instance, makes her home instantly relaxing with the Poetic Mind candle from Zara Home.
The best candle for one person isn't necessarily the best candle for the next, but the actress's pick is perfect if you want to infuse your home with a warm, relaxing energy. Sweeney told The Strategist: 'I love candles. I was with my friend, and their place smelled amazing. I was like, "What is that?" And they’re like, "Oh, it’s the candle." I legit went and bought it that day and sent it to my house because I loved it so much.' One note stands out in particular to Sweeney. She states: 'There’s a vanilla aspect to it. Usually, a lot of products I love have vanilla in them. There’s something very calming and cozy about it. Whenever I walk in, and the candle is burning, it just relaxes me.'
In fact, a vanilla-based fragrance may be one of the best home-scenting secrets to help combat the winter blues. The sweet scent is known to relieve stress, with notes that promote feelings of relaxation and calm. It's frequently used in aromatherapy to promote well-being and improve mental health. If you're looking for a pick-me-up this winter, this just might be the one.
Sweeney's favorite vegetable wax candle combines woody notes with lemon zest and soft magnolia. It includes bergamot, almond flower, and white woods. Though vanilla isn't listed as a note, Sweeney loves that it has a vanilla-like fragrance without overdosing on the sweetness.
The Calming Candle Edit
If you want to scent your home for relaxation like Sweeney but prefer a more traditional vanilla scent, or just another grounding fragrance, these are just a few of our favorites.
For an elevated vanilla, there's nothing better than Diptique's Vanille candle, rumored to be loved by Beyoncé. The leathery and smoky accents ground this fragrance for a sophisticated ambiance.
My favorite part about using candles is the feelings they can bring to a home, and this gorgeous candle from Neal's Yard is especially poised to do so. Made from organic beeswax and plant-oil blends, it's as good for you as it smells.
Nest fragrances have a cult following for a reason, and the Madagascar Vanilla fragrance is especially delicious. A hint of coconut adds something ineffably beautiful.
Sweeney's favorite home fragrance is especially complex, featuring wood and citrus notes to cut through the sweetness of a traditional vanilla candle. It has almond as well, which seems to be growing in popularity as a fragrance trend for 2025. The glass vessel with a simple green label would look beautiful on a console table in an entryway, or on any living room coffee table.
If you're a fan of Sydney Sweeney, love sweet scents, or just hate the winter blues, this candle could be the perfect one for you.
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