The 10 Very Best Smelling Candles: A Curated Selection by the Founder of Nomad Noé
Corentin Hamon, co-founder and creative director of the luxury candle brand Nomad Noé, is a seasoned fragrance connoisseur with 15 years of experience in the industry. His creations are sold at prestigious outlets like CB2, Saks, and Neiman Marcus. His work at Nomad Noé has not only caught the attention of influential publications like The Cut, The Observer, and Architectural Digest but has also found its place in the homes of celebrities like Allison Janney.
In this post, Corentin shares his top ten candle picks. Among these, two are signature Nomad Noé candles, selected for their unique scent profiles that embody the brand's ethos. The remaining eight are from distinguished brands like Diptyque, Boy Smells, and Byredo, all of which have been sources of inspiration in shaping Nomad Noé's collection.
The DREAMER in London candle by Nomad Noé rekindles the spirit of Aida Overton Walker, a Harlem-born performer renowned for challenging Victorian stereotypes. Infused with the essence of cedarwood and accented with gentle tones of violet and vanilla, this scent is an olfactory journey to an old-world theater or library, where the aroma of firewood, tobacco, and a hint of vanilla fill the air. Encased in a matte porcelain vessel that glows warmly when lit, this candle offers 60 hours of burn time.
Paying homage to Qiu Jin, a legendary poet who pioneered women's rights in China, Nomad Noé's POET in Hangzhou takes you through an aromatic expedition of Hangzhou's enchanting landscapes. The delicate scents of gardenia and steadfast bamboo merge beautifully in this candle, crafted with fragrance oils from Grasse, France, and hand-poured in the USA.
The Bibliothèque Candle by Byredo recreates the nostalgic aura of a library at home. A balanced mix of peach, plum, vanilla, and patchouli encapsulates the romantic charm of antiquarian books, while fresh notes of peony and violet uplift the senses, and deeper undertones of leather add an element of sophistication.
A unique blend of amber, floral, and green notes, Boy Smells' Kush is a one-of-a-kind fragrance. Starting with notes of cannabis leaf, lemon peel, and rhubarb, it evolves into a complex mix of almond, tulip, sage, and eucalyptus, eventually revealing a base of suede, musk, and amber. This scent evolves over time, akin to a deepening conversation, making it an aromatic journey that lasts.
The Speakeasy Candle from Harlem Candle Co. draws inspiration from the underground clubs of the 1920s and '30s. With a unique blend of cardamom, smoked incense, pimento berry, saffron, licorice, and tobacco, softened by base notes of palo santo, patchouli, vanilla, and dark chocolate, this candle exudes an alluring mix of amber and woody scents. The stunning vessel that houses this candle justifies it as an investment-worthy addition to any space.
Diptyque's best-selling Baies Candle captures the heart of jammy blackcurrant and Bulgarian roses, encapsulating a berry compote fresh from the oven. This candle, available in clear glass or a matte black vessel, adds an extra layer of elegance to this beloved fragrance.
Renowned for its Santal scents, LE LABO's Santal 26 combines amber, coco, vanilla, and sandalwood to create a fragrance that is now nearly synonymous with New York City's trendiest locales.
JO MALONE LONDON's Orange Blossom Scented Home Candle is an olfactory garden oasis. With a radiant blend of clementine flower, orange blossom, water lily, complemented by warm undertones of orris and balsamic vetiver, it truly embodies the concept of luxury.
Trudon's Ernesto candle presents a unique blend of bergamot and clove on a tobacco base, an aromatic tribute to the vibrant life and legacy of the famed revolutionary, Ernesto Guevara.
Living up to its name, TOM FORD's Fabulous Candle is a lavish blend of leather, sage, vanilla, and tonka bean. Though pricey, it offers up to 40 hours of burn time, making it a worthy indulgence.
The magic of a candle lies in its ability to transport you, evoke memories, and create an ambiance. Each of these candles captures that essence and spirit, allowing for a transformative aromatic experience. Whether it’s the journey of a DREAMER or the tranquil environment of a library, there’s an aroma that’s bound to resonate with every individual's senses and style.