Reading is an unparalleled pleasure. There’s little else in life that can ground and inspire you at once. I find that no matter what I need, reading always seems to be the salve. Stressed? Cozy up with a book. A lack of motivation? Head straight to the self-help shelves. While it can be hard to prioritize reading when our attention is divided among so much, I consider it a key habit in my everyday wellness routine. And clearly, our team of bibliophiles does as well. That’s why I had to tap our editors for their thoughts on the best books of 2023.
Our Slack channels, email threads, and chats IRL often drift to the topic of reading. Whether it’s social strategy or content planning, everything can segue into the books we can’t put down. We read not only to learn, but to experience worlds outside of our own—coming back to our own lives with a greater empathy and understanding of others’ stories. Otherwise said: books offer us a gift and level of connection that little else can.
The Best Books of 2023, According to Our Editors
Whether or not you caught the book bug this year, there’s a beautiful truth about reading: it’s a habit you can always return to. So many of us think about reading the same way we do working out. There’s just not enough time! And sure, while a busy day might not allow for an hours-long reading marathon, pockets of time do present themselves. Whether it’s in the five minutes between meetings or in the parking lot for school pick-up, we just have to be more intentional with how we make space for what’s important. Swap your scroll for a few minutes spent reading. You’ll never go back.
So, if you’re wondering whether our Goodreads looked anything like yours or you simply want to update your TBR for the year ahead, keep reading for the best books of 2023 that our editors couldn’t put down. There’s something for everyone.
Cleopatra and Frankenstein
The way this book BROKE me and somehow put me back together again. I’m a girl who goes hard for the “no plot, just vibes” genre, and Coco Mellors perfected it beautifully in this debut novel. Expect stylistic writing, a devastating narrative, strangely lovable characters, and an ending that leaves you feeling empty but paradoxically understood. (Trust me, just read it.) — Isabelle, Managing Editor
Dear Edward
My favorite kind of novel is one that feels so close to reality that you can imagine yourself in the plot line—which is what made Dear Edward so heartbreaking, and also so beautiful. This is the story of a boy who has to learn to live again after an unimaginable tragedy and answers the question that we all ask ourselves: how could you find strength to fully live life when you’ve lost everything? — Camille, Editor-in-Chief
The Wrath & the Dawn
Khalid, the young king of Khorasan, takes a new bride each night only to have her executed at sunrise, until a girl named Shahrzad volunteers to marry him. But she does so with a plan to take revenge for the murder of her best friend and the many other brides before her. This was a surprisingly quick and enthralling read that is more enchanting than thriller-esque. The storytelling is beautiful, each of the characters is intriguing, and I finished this story wanting to talk to all my friends about it. — Suruchi, Food Editor
Good Inside
We’re currently in the thick of navigating life with a “threenager” with another little one on the way—emotions are high and patience is low. SOS. Life is full and this book continues to provide solace, practical tips, and creative ways to support our growing toddler. Although I’ve mostly steered from parenting books, this is a valuable, relatable resource I often turn to. If you need empowerment, empathy, or a reminder that your children are good inside, this is worth the shelf space. — Edie, Wellness Editor
The Creative Act
I’ve always been a fan of Rick Rubin, so I was quick to get my hands on this book when it first came out in January. It turned out to be the perfect New Year’s read, full of creative inspiration and tangible advice on how to embrace your inner artist. — Michelle, Executive Producer
Hello Beautiful
Think: Little Women but with a modern and all-too-realistic narrative. Hello Beautiful was such a thought-provoking book that touches on realities hard to address in print. It’s a slower read, but one that will imprint on the way you look at realistic fiction. — Casey, Editorial Intern
Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication
I’m fascinated by the topic of charisma—what gives certain people that secret sauce of magnetism and likability? In this fascinating book, Van Edwards breaks it down, and what I love about this book is that it’s full of surprises. If you want to unlock the secrets to captivating a room, being a leader, and conveying confidence, so much of it is in the body language and vocal inflections that most of us are unaware of. And it turns out, we can subtly tweak those cues to have more influence. — Camille, Editor-in-Chief
The Guest
If you also devoured The Girls, then you’re well aware that Emma Cline is capable of weaving together a fast-paced narrative through the development of her characters alone. This relatively short read moves quickly, driven by the desperation of its protagonist to find a place for herself in an unforgiving world. — Isabelle, Managing Editor
The Trouble with Hating You
I’m not usually one for rom-com type books, but this one hooked me right away with lovable characters and a classic enemies-to-lovers arc. The main characters’ banter and individual storylines come together in the best way. This was a fun read for anyone looking for a rom-com novel that celebrates culture, friendship, and strong characters you find yourself rooting for chapter after chapter. — Suruchi, Food Editor
The Almanack of Naval Ravikant
I was late to the party on this one but am so glad I finally picked it up. I’ve never highlighted and annotated a book so much in my life! I found it to be an incredible source of wisdom on how to build wealth, cultivate happiness, and live a life led by your core values. — Michelle, Executive Producer
In the ever-evolving world of superfoods, there’s a humble contender worth the pantry space. With its impressive nutrients and versatility, say hello to lupini beans—the unsung heroes of legumes. Beyond their nutritional profile, lupini beans couldn’t be easier to incorporate. Whether you’re a fiber fanatic, a hormone-balancing queen, or home chef with a knack for creativity, add lupini beans to your grocery list. From snacking beans and salads—to pastas and hummus—there’s no shortage of ways to use lupini beans. Let’s revolutionize your meals with these nutrient-packed gems.
Featured image by Suruchi Avasthi.
What are lupini beans?
Lupini beans—also known as lupin beans—are a type of legume. They’re oval-shaped and come in various neutral colors. A close relative of peas, their history runs deep. For centuries, they’ve been a Middle Eastern dietary staple. But they’ve started filling more grocery aisles, thanks to their impressive nutritional profile. Lupini beans are renowned for their high protein content, making them an excellent source of plant-based protein! On top of that, lupini beans are rich in dietary fiber, low in fat, and are naturally gluten-free.
What do lupini beans taste like?
Lupini beans have a nutty flavor and slightly mealy texture. Because of this, they’re a versatile ingredient in a range of dishes and cuisines. That said, they need to be soaked properly and fully cooked. Otherwise, lupini beans are super bitter—due to their alkaloids. You can buy them whole or enjoy them ground, as a snacking bean, or even as a low-carb pasta. No matter your preference, this is a protein-packed and fiber-rich plant food to add to your repertoire.
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Health Benefits of Lupini Beans
When prepared properly (more on this, below), lupini beans have an impressive nutritional composition. Here are a few key health benefits:
High in protein
Lupini beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein. In fact, one cup of lupini beans contains over 60 grams of protein! This is an ideal choice for vegetarians, vegans, and omnivores alike.
Rich in fiber
Like most beans and legumes, lupini beans are high in dietary fiber. This encourages digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar levels, and aids in both satiety and weight management. Speaking of digestive health, they’re known to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Low in fat
Lupini beans are naturally low in fat—particularly, saturated fat. They’re a heart-healthy choice that can mitigate the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, some studies suggest that lupini beans may help reduce cholesterol levels in the blood.
Naturally gluten-free
Whether you’re gluten sensitive or have celiac disease, lupini beans are naturally gluten-free.
Contain essential nutrients
Lupini beans are a good source of essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, and potassium, which contribute to overall health and well-being. In particular, these minerals help maintain strong bones.
Support stable blood sugar
Thanks to their fiber and protein, lupini beans can help stabilize blood sugar levels. This is key for energy, hormone health, and minimizing long-term chronic conditions, like diabetes.
Reduce inflammation
These beans contain antioxidants, including flavonoids and polyphenols, which can help protect cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.
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Image by Suruchi Avasthi
How to Properly Prepare Lupini Beans
If you’re cooking lupini beans the old-school way (raw beans to boiled goodness), you’ll need a bit of time. Read: 5-7 days. If that’s not in your wheelhouse, try lupini beans in the form of pre-packaged snacking bean or pasta. That said, if you’re down to make them from scratch, we promise it’s easy. Although the soaking process takes time, it’s necessary. The end result? A tender, slightly nutty-flavored bean that you can use in salads, soups, spreads, etc.
Ingredients:
Dried lupini beans
Water
Salt (optional)
Instructions:
Inspect and rinse. Examine dried lupini beans for any debris or stones. Discard any damaged beans. Rinse the beans under cold running water.
Soak in cold water. Place the cleaned lupini beans in a large bowl or pot, and cover them with cold water. Use about 3 to 4 cups of water for every cup of dried lupini beans. The beans will expand as they soak—make sure there’s enough water to keep them fully submerged.
Add salt. This is optional, but adding salt to the soaking water will help with the beans’ bitterness. Add 1-2 tablespoons of salt per cup of beans.
Soak. Lupini beans require an extended soaking period, typically ranging from 5-7 days. During this time, change the water daily. The beans will gradually expand and absorb water.
Test for bitterness. After 5-7 days, taste a lupini bean to check for bitterness. If the bitterness is still present, continue soaking and changing the water daily until it’s mostly gone. The time required may vary depending on the beans (and your preference).
Boil and rinse. Once the lupini beans are no longer bitter, it’s time to cook them! Transfer the beans to a large pot, cover them with fresh water, and bring them to a boil. Boil the beans for about 15-20 minutes. This step also helps remove any remaining bitterness. Drain the boiled lupini beans and rinse them under cold water.
Use as desired. Your soaked and cooked lupini beans are now ready to be used in various recipes.
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Image by Suruchi Avasthi
7 Ways to Add Lupini Beans to Your Diet
Not sure how to incorporate lupini beans into your favorite meals? Fortunately, you can savor these beans in many forms.
Snacking beans
A convenient and nutritious snack, they’re typically sold brined or pickled. Just rinse them well to remove excess salt, and you’re ready to relish their nutty flavor. Add them to a charcuterie board or enjoy with sliced veggies and tzatziki.
Pasta
You can find lupini bean pasta in various shapes and sizes! Best of all, they can easily be swapped for regular noodles. Try our red pepper pasta or our vegan cauliflower mac and cheese.
Hummus
Did you know that lupini beans can be used as an alternative to chickpeas? Enter: hummus. The result is a creamy and flavorful lupini bean hummus that pairs perfectly with pita bread, veggies, or as a sandwich spread.
Salads
Add cooked lupini beans to any salad for an extra boost of protein and fiber. They’re a fantastic addition to green salads, grain bowls, or mixed with lentils for a hearty bean salad.
Soups
Toss lupini beans into soups and stews. They add a rich, creamy texture and a unique flavor. We love them best in this curry butternut squash soup.
Spreads
Along with hummus, make a lupini bean spread by blending the beans with olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and salt. Serve as a dip or spread on sandwiches and crackers.
Veggie burgers
Make vegetarian or vegan lupini bean burgers! Simply mash cooked lupini beans with ingredients for our sweet potato falafel burgers.
The art of eating al fresco is more difficult than it looks. Thankfully, there’s one source we turn to when packing up for an outdoor meal. You can score all the best picnic foods from Trader Joe’s, but knowing how to curate a selection for every occasion—well, that requires a bit more finesse.
Ahead, we’ve gathered the essentials for an indulgent French-inspired picnic (complete with an insulated basket), a breezy beach gathering, the ultimate al fresco charcuterie set-up, and beyond. Whether it’s an impromptu affair or you just don’t feel like fussing with recipes, we’ve made our picnics as effortless as possible with foods curated exclusively from Trader Joe’s. Because filling your picnic basket should be easy on your budget—and we’ll take any excuse to hit up TJ’s.
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
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How to Pack a Breezy, Beachside Picnic
Unless you’re lucky enough to have an oceanfront address, a beach picnic likely means a bit of a haul. To save room for the integral wine (scope our TJ’s faves), we’ve kept our suggestions on the lighter—but no less satisfying—side.
Every product is curated with care by our editors and we’ll always give an honest opinion, whether gifted or purchased ourselves. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a small commission at no cost to you.
How to Pack a Gluten-Free Picnic
Perhaps your group is well-versed in the limitations of Celiac. Or maybe your friend just so happens to be avoiding gluten for trendier reasons. No judgment here—a gluten-free spread can be as substantial as a hearty glass of wheat beer thanks to our picks for the best picnic foods from Trader Joe’s.
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Image by Michelle Nash3 of 42
Image by Michelle Nash
What to Pack for an Indulgent French Picnic Spread
We tend to think of relatively light fare when we think of picnics. But when your al fresco dream looks like a scene from Marie Antoinette, it’s time to call in the Trader Jacques heavy hitters.
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Image by Michelle Nash
The Ultimate Charcuterie Picnic
Ah, the most leisurely picnic of them all. No cooking—just slicing, organizing, and nibbling. Feel more than free to pair with your favorite wine.
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Image by Michelle Nash
The Best Prepared Foods at Trader Joe’s for a Picnic
We weren’t about to do a roundup of the best picnic foods from Trader Joe’s without devoting an entire section to what the beloved grocer does best: prepared foods and killer dips.
Swap out something in our curated lists for these bestsellers below—or simply supplement. You can’t go wrong with a parmesan pastry pup or two.
It’s been awhile since I’ve shared an update about what’s happening over at Casa Zuma. The reason? Well, turns out that running a direct-to-consumer products brand while also running this website makes for a really busy schedule. It doesn’t leave as much time as I’d like for reflection—but so much has been happening behind the scenes that I had to pop in and share a few summer updates with you guys.
First, a quick recap of the last 8 months since launch—it’s been a whirlwind. I’ve met countless incredible makers and artists, packed hundreds of orders with our team, designed packaging, acted as product designer/chief marketing officer/customer service rep—it’s been a crazy busy time but so inspiring and fun. I dove in headfirst, and though it sometimes feels like a lot, I also feel like I’m right where I need to be.
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Do we have it all figured out? Not even close—but my intention for this brand is to bring you guys the most special, inspiring, creative pieces that elevate your everyday. And that pursuit has meant that, at times, I’ve had to let go of perfection, knowing that we’ll keep dialing it in as we go. As with any new business, it’s required a lot of patience and learning to trust the process. One of the biggest challenges of working with handmade goods from countries around the world is that lead times can be long—we’re working directly with our artisans to design and develop new pieces that are exclusive to Casa Zuma, so the journey from concept to actually having the product in hand is a months-long process.
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SO, the products in our summer collection are items I’ve been working on and waiting for for months, and I can’t wait to finally show you! Here are my top 7 picks from our spring collection. Head over to CasaZuma.com to shop them all today.
Solstice Mugs (online today!)
Aaah I have been waiting to share our newest mug with you guys! Our first mug sold out incredibly fast, so I couldn’t be more excited to share the newest in our collection, The Solstice Mug. Thrown by hand in Los Angeles by our friends at LA Clay, this is the cozy, no-handle mug I reach for to start (or end) my day—it’s just perfect. I even use the large size as a pen holder on my desk. They’re online today, so grab yours before this first drop sells out.
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Found Dough Bowls
I’ve collected vintage wooden dough bowls myself for years, and they’re one of the items in my home you guys ask me about all the time. So, I’m thrilled to finally bring you these one-of-a-kind hand-carved dough bowls made of reclaimed wood. I use this as a catch-all for keys in the entryway, or I fill it with citrus for a simple centerpiece. This is the time to embrace a wabi-sabi aesthetic—every single one of these is different, so embrace the element of surprise!
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Sharing Bowl (online today!)
Our new ceramic serving bowl was inspired by the one I use almost every night on the dinner table for grains or roasted veggies, served family-style. Handmade in Los Angeles by our friends at LA Clay, it’s perfectly sized for sharing any side dish. These are really special with a beautiful speckling in the glaze that I just adore.
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Casa Zuma Linen Apron
We’ve been working on our signature linen apron for awhile, and now—I basically live in this one. Oversized front pockets house tongs and towels, and the Japanese-style crossback keeps it simple—no ties or buckles to deal with. Handmade by artisans in Lithuania, this 100% linen crossback apron is thick enough to fully protect from stains and spills while keeping you breezy enough for summer nights.
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Sharing Platter (Online Today!)
Our new handmade ceramic serving platter is made in Los Angeles by our friends at LA Clay, and it’s probably the most versatile serving piece in my kitchen. It’s perfectly sized for roast chicken, grilled fish, and veggies—and it also happens to make a great platter for warm chocolate chip cookies. The three muted colors are all pretty perfect, but the robin’s egg blue especially makes me swoon.
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Linen Table Throw in “Natural Sand”
Meet the newest color in our incredibly popular linen table throw: Natural Sand (aka my new favorite!) It’s ethically-made in Lithuania of heavyweight linen, and we designed it to toss casually over any-sized table. I usually embrace the linen’s natural wrinkles for a look that’s laid back and not at all fussy.
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Sabré Flatware in Ivory
Since you guys love our teak flatware as much as I do, I’ve been dying to introduce a new color to the collection—meet our new Ivory Sabré Flatware! These are made in France, and for those of you who can’t quite get on board with a wood-handle silverware set, this durable acrylic handle is for you. They come in a set of four (one full place setting), and embody the casual approach to setting the table that is so my vibe.
For many—alongside blankets aplenty and holiday baking marathons—it’s a candle’s captivating glow that epitomizes winter. The season marks the peak of hygge’s comforting allure as we happily retreat to our candlelit havens. But the best summer candles prove that the cold-weather season isn’t the only time we’ll happily welcome a captivating fragrance into our homes. If you consider yourself candle-obsessed as well, then you know: there’s little more soothing than something that evokes the essence of the season.
With the summer solstice fast approaching (tomorrow!), we’re doing all we can to soak up the most of these sun-kissed days. Entertaining outdoors, eating all of our meals al fresco, and applying our efforts to our backyard living space. It should come as no surprise that we’ve been busy checking off our summer bucket list. But if you already find yourself mourning these easy-breezy days, take heart: we have a simple, affordable answer. Truly, there’s no better way to bottle up these soothing scents than with the best summer candles that transport you to abundant gardens, beaches, and any space that for you, screams summertime
Featured image by Michelle Nash.
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15 Best Summer Candles to Buy in 2023
After combing the internet and testing the truth behind their labels’ purported burn times, we found the best summer candles to elevate every day. The roundup below has it all: summery citrus blends, fragrant floral scents, and candles to ignite your imagination. No matter your preference, you can trust that this list has the best option for every candle lover. Yourself included.
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It’s no secret that we’re all huge fans of Summer Fridays here at Camille Styles. From the cult-favorite Lip Butter to its award-winning Jet Lag Mask—Summer Fridays’ viral status is well-earned. And because the beauty brand can do no wrong, Summer Fridays decided to explore the competitive world of clean candles. To no one’s surprise, we’re all obsessed. While many vanilla candles can come off as overly sweet, this one is softened by the floral fragrance of almond blossom. I love to burn mine while I’m working, as it’s simultaneously soothing and energizing—helping me focus and while enjoying the task at hand all the more.
This is also one of those unique candles that hold its own in a space even before it’s lit. The scent is natural, beachy, and perfectly captures the freeing essence of a summer Friday. Burn, baby burn.
Fragrance: Vanilla & Almond Blossom
Size: 8 ounces
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This summer candle is pure romance. It’s deeply sensual, with top notes of apple blossom, peony flower, and baby’s breath evoking a secret garden of sorts. While I wouldn’t burn this at a backyard barbecue or even simply while eating, it’s perfect in the bathroom, to burn while reading or journaling, or to light while you indulge in a self-care evening. What’s more, the clean and modern, black and white design supports nearly any aesthetic, making this candle right at home in any space.
Fragrance: Peony & Blush Suede
Size: 10 ounces
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I’m a recent convert to Enlighten Candles, but the discovery makes me wish I’d dived deep into the brand’s extensive library of scents long ago. I love that each candle is thoughtfully crafted with 100% soy wax for a clean burn and natural cotton wicks, allowing the scent to move evenly throughout the space. The intentional design makes the most of each candle’s 50 to 60-hour burn time. At under $30, you can be sure you’re getting your money’s worth—and then some.
Onto the scent itself. I love citrusy, grapefruit candles because while they certainly give off a sunny, summery vibe, I find that they lend themselves perfectly to any home, any time of the year. This unique and energizing blend is fruity, toxin-free, and sure to boost your mood upon first burn. (Be sure to also treat yourself to the Egyptian Moonstone and Lavender. I have the candles in my bathroom and beside my bed, respectively, and I’ll never tire of their scents.)
Fragrance: Peach, Grapefruit, & Mango
Size: 12 ounces
Like Summer Fridays, it just makes sense that one of our favorite names in the skincare space would expand to candles. Who wouldn’t want to capture the fragrance of their favorite lotion and soak it up in their home all day? And truly—with a 55-hour burn time, I do mean all day. This candle was one of my first swap-ins when I set out to detoxify my home and burn only clean fragrances. Not only did I notice the scent shift immediately, but I no longer experienced headaches at the same rate as before.
Not only is the light, amber-colored glass beautiful placed on any surface or tucked into any nook but it also further elevates the candle’s all-encompassing experience. It’s pure, California surf vibes, complete with the salt water, occasional rain, and an easy attitude about it all.
Fragrance: Grapefruit & Hinoki
Size: 8.5 ounces
The name is perfectly apt: this candle delivers a fragrant touch of summer magic with each burn. It’s distinctly fruity without being overwhelming, tempering the sweet coconut and mango with the tangy heat of chili salt. The resulting scent is creamy and bright, creating an innocent sort of summer joy you simply have to lean into. I like to think of it as the nostalgic blend of your favorite sunscreen mixed with the fresh summer scent of the season’s best fruit. The impact is a vivid olfactory experience, whisking you off to a summer world of gold-flecked days.
Fragrance: Mango, Coconut Cream, Chili Salt
Size: 8 ounces
If you’re like me and leaning into the maximalist style that’s at its peak in the summer, this is your candle. Of course, there’s the high-vibe, technicolor packaging, but beyond that, this candle is simply just extra—in all the best ways. Its notes are perfectly tailored to soft living, sending you through a field of wildflowers with a picnic basket in hand. And if you’re hesitant to hop on the tomato scent trend, this candle may be the best place to start. The Tomato Leaves lend an “ethereal freshness,” playing up the fruit’s savory-sweetness that blends perfectly with blackcurrant, rose, and lychee. Who knows, you might be tempted to make it your signature summer scent.
Nette candles are gorgeous, end of story. The brand pays ample attention not only to the scents, but the minimalist vessels that stand as works of art on their own. Lighting this candle is a study in indulgence. The intoxicating blend is driven primarily by verbena, offering an uplifting, crisp, and clean scent that leaves you feeling energized and refreshed. I love that it’s grounded with cedarwood, balancing the verbena’s vibrance with an earthy warmth. As a result, this candle is perfect for summer, with a sophisticated composition of fragrance fit for any space.
Fragrance: Verbena, Pear, Neroli, Linden Blossom, and Cedarwood
Size: 10 ounces
Come for the widely-loved linen sheets, stay for Brooklinen’s collection of carefully-crafted candles. While the brand offers eight different scents, it’s the Happy Hour candle that has my heart. Why? The scent is described as fresh, floral, and woody. Like the Nette candle, this summer pick seamlessly incorporates scent descriptors that span the fragrance spectrum. Alongside its citrus and cedar notes, this candle incorporates rosemary and eucalyptus to imbue a little much-needed calm into your bedroom.
Fragrance: Mandarin, Lavender, Oak
Size: 8 ounces
Many of the best summer candles come from brands that have only just recently expanded into the world of fragrance, applying their expertise from scent-adjacent industries. Follain is no different. The clean skincare brand is known for using sustainable production practices and naturally-potent botanicals to create its celebrated beauty products. Follain’s candles employ the same innovation. Each blend is custom-crafted and features packaging that makes for the perfect hostess present or gift to yourself. And while this scent includes a few summer favorites, it’s the fig leaf that immediately sends me seaside on a Mediterranean escape.
Fragrance: White Tea, Fig Leaf, Basil, Lavender
Size: 10 ounces
Tomato candles are both one of the most popular and polarizing candle scents. Personally, I love the fresh, garden-like fragrance that’s pure Italian vibes. Paired with a spritz and perhaps a bowl of pasta to come, it’s a true play of scent and sense. This candle would be right at home in the kitchen—and I would think any character in a Nancy Meyers movie would agree.
Fragrance: Tomato Vine, Holy Basil, Black Pepper
Size: 8 ounces
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I know, I know—if you’re like me, I imagine you’re tired of all the celebrity brands circulating just about every industry. (Skincare, beauty, alcohol, non-alcoholic alternatives… you get it.) But when I come across a brand I truly love, I won’t pass it up even with the celebrity endorsement. Alongside Rhode by Hailey Bieber, Frenshe is a fave—and the sophistication and nuance of each scent is proof that Ashley Tisdale is far from her High School Musical days.
While the brand spans beauty and personal care, it’s the candles I truly can’t get enough of. And because they’re available at Target, I’ve been known to stock up on several every time I visit. Infused with essential oils, each candle supports a specific energy: calm and relaxed, awakened and uplifting, and this cashmere vanilla scent to help you reset. It’s the perfect final piece for a truly restorative self-care evening.
Leave it to my favorite clothing brand to craft one of my go-to summer candles. This candle is an extension of the Madewell ethos, exuding all of its easy-going, but elevated vibes. It sets the mood instantly, with Neroli’s refined complexity leaving an alluring trail of bitter orange mixed with honey. There’s a lot at play with this affordable candle, but it all blends in seamlessly to create a single cohesive scent.
I’ve long searched for a candle that captures the comfort of a summertime campfire. While other summer candles often lean either floral or sweet, this candle pairs sandalwood’s serenity and warmth with the spice of cardamom. Lighting it invokes a feeling of inner peace, and I love pairing it with a good beach read or any moment when the season calls for a little cozying up.
Handmade and small-batch, Formulary 55 candles are wholly unique and it’s obvious that every detail is considered. I love that the vessel is kept clear without any branding, allowing the candle to seamlessly elevate any space. Gardenia is a deeply romantic scent, and while it can easily overwhelm if not checked by other blends, lemon’s fresh and invigorating fragrance lends a multi-dimensional aroma to the candle’s overall impact.
Fragrance: Gardenia, Lemon
Size: 8 ounces
You’re probably seeing Vacation everywhere thanks to its social-friendly packaging and wide array of SPF goodies. And though I love both of these aspects of the brand, it’s the candles that had me hooked. As a writer, I appreciate the clever copy (scents include “Well-Tipped Pool Boy” and “Partial Ocean View”)—but the writing really nailed it with the “High Ceiling Resort Lobby” candle. It’s resort style at its finest, capturing the essence of quiet luxury and packaging it up in an aesthetic glass cylinder. One look at the fragrance notes (see below) and it’s hard not to imagine the exact vibe this candle encapsulates.
Fragrance: Fresh Cut Flowers, High Gloss Magazines, Air-Conditioned Ocean Breeze
Size: 8.5 ounces
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Image by Michelle Nash
Our Favorite Candle Accessories
Ingrid Taper Candle Holder Set
When I’m setting a summer table, I love adding a little depth of interest by incorporating different candle heights into my tablescape. I scatter a few tea lights in between taller taper candles. These holders incorporate a nice modern and sculptural element that I can soften up with simple florals.
Tenn Prairie Striker Match Holder
How darling are these little match holders? While many of us use a lighter, I love the whimsical look that a colorful set of matches adds to a coffee table or bookshelf.
Skeem Match Cloche
This handblown match cloche and striker pairs function with timeless style, adding a beautiful touch of luxury to your mantel.
Botanica Earth Flameless Lighter
If you’d rather use a lighter, this flameless pick offers a butane-free ignition. It comes in a variety of bright, poppy colors and recharges through a simple USB port.
Williams Sonoma Snuffer and Trimmer Gold Set
If you haven’t yet committed to properly caring for your candles, now’s the time to start. You should be trimming your wick regularly to prolong the life of your candle and prevent any soot from gathering in the wax. This classic gold set is a beautiful reminder to make it a habit, allowing you to enjoy your summer candles all the more.
