What's Your Winter Scent?

Thanksgiving is right around the corner. Are you already gearing up for the holidays? Lighting a few seasonal candles is an excellent way to get into the winter spirit and give your home a warm, welcoming glow. But with the wide variety of festive fragrances, how do you know what aromas to try? To make it easy, we chatted with fragrance expert Sarah Horowitz about the different scent categories—and how each type applies to fresh winter smells.

1. Citrus

"Citrus is bubbly, clean, and fresh. Its light vibrancy really perks up a room. Opt for a blend that features hints of peppermint, lemon, or champagne." 

Beautylish recommends: Tocca Venice Candle in Bellini

2. Orientals

"Oriental fragrances are more intense and sensual than the other perfume categories. These scents are usually a mix of sweet, rich, and spicy ingredients. Look for candles that feature plum, cinnamon, orange, and clove notes."

Beautylish recommends: Crabtree & Evelyn Limited-Edition Noel Candle

3. Chypre

"Chypre is a very musky, earthy scent. The base note is traditionally oak moss. Look for smoky scent that remind you of being curled up in front of a toasty fireplace." 

Beautylish recommends: Slatkin & Co Candle in Fireside

4. Gourmand

"Gourmand is any scent that reminds you of sweet, rich foods. Think vanilla, cookies, and caramel. This time of year the more seasonal scents could be variations on gingerbread, gum drops, or hot chocolate."   

Beautylish recommends: The Bodyshop Spiced Vanilla Candle

5. Fougére

"Fougére is a really woody, nature-based aroma that’s perfect for re-creating that unforgettable Christmas-tree scent. Choose a candle with a hint of citrus for a bit more zing." 

Beautylish recommends: Williams-Sonoma Essential Oils Collection Boxed Candle in Winter Forest

6. Florals

Romantic and feminine, florals can reflect a full-bodied bouquet or one specific flower. Although the poinsettia is a traditional flower during the holidays, it doesn’t really have a scent. Instead, try a candle that features your favorite flower with a twist of other seasonal plants, like pines.

Beautylish recommends: Yankee Candle Christmas Rose

Sarah Horowitz-Thran has had a career in fragrance for over 20 years and is the founder of Sarah Horowitz  Parfums. She also is the creator three distinct ready to wear lines as well as a number of blockbuster private label and custom fragrances that have attracted a cult following among fashion industry insiders and celebrities across the US.