The Art of Layering Scents: Combining Different Candle Fragrances
Creating a home that feels uniquely yours isn't just about what you see—it's also about what you smell. Scent has the power to evoke emotion, set a mood, and enhance the atmosphere of your space. At Elm & Fig, we believe in the transformative magic of scent, and one of the most creative ways to harness that power is through layering candle fragrances.
In this guide, we’ll explore the art of scent layering, offer practical tips, and recommend combinations that will elevate your home fragrance experience.
What Is Scent Layering?
Scent layering is the intentional act of combining multiple candle fragrances to create a custom, multidimensional aroma. Just as a well-composed meal or an outfit with depth, layered scents offer complexity and personality that a single fragrance often can’t achieve on its own.
When done thoughtfully, layering scents can:
- Enhance the ambiance of your home
- Personalize your space with signature combinations
- Transition your home from day to night or season to season
Why Layer Candle Scents?
Layering isn’t just for perfumes. Layering candles lets you:
- Customize your home fragrance without committing to one dominant scent
- Create a mood (cozy, energetic, romantic) for specific spaces or occasions
- Blend seasonal notes for a unique transitional scent (e.g., mixing summer citrus with fall spice)
Plus, it’s an easy way to use multiple candles you already love and experiment with new ones.
How to Layer Candle Fragrances Like a Pro
1. Understand Fragrance Families
Start by familiarizing yourself with basic scent families:
- Floral (rose, jasmine, lavender)
- Woody (cedar, sandalwood, amber)
- Fresh (citrus, herbal, oceanic)
- Spicy (clove, cinnamon, nutmeg)
- Gourmand (vanilla, caramel, cocoa)
Knowing which families complement each other is key. For example, floral + woody often creates a grounded, elegant scent. Citrus + herbal is bright and energizing, while vanilla + spice adds warmth and comfort.
2. Start with a Base Scent
Choose a foundational candle with a stronger or more neutral fragrance, such as sandalwood, amber, or vanilla. This will anchor your scent profile and allow other candles to layer on top.
3. Add Accent Notes
Pair your base with one or two complementary fragrances. Light all candles simultaneously, and let the aromas naturally blend in the air. Pro tip: Use different locations in the same room to let scents meet in the middle.
4. Think in Layers—Like a Perfume
Just like perfumes have top, middle, and base notes, your candle combinations should balance:
- Top notes (what you smell first—citrus, herbs)
- Heart notes (the core—florals, spices)
- Base notes (the linger—woods, resins, vanilla)
5. Test and Adjust
Try scent layering during different times of day or in various rooms to see what combinations feel best. Trust your nose—it’s personal!
Explore our full Candle Collection to mix, match, and discover your signature scent story.
Final Thoughts: Scent as Self-Expression
Just as decor reflects your style, scent reflects your spirit. With a little creativity, you can use candle layering to curate the atmosphere of your home down to the finest detail. Whether you're looking to soothe, energize, or simply indulge your senses, layering candles allows you to design your space in a whole new dimension.