You Know Her for Cardigans — But Jenni Kayne's Candles Are Just as Chic
These non-basic, non-pollutant candles capture the essence of life’s most beautiful places


Last year, Jenni Kayne’s “Cooper” cardigan had TikTok in a chokehold. The tailored crewneck button-down somehow combines sweater-level comfort with corset-level snatching. For me, it was just the entry into the world of Jenni Kayne — a universe that spans so much more than sweaters. Now, I’ve transitioned from cardigans to candles, and it turns out that the designer’s home scents are just as elevated as her ensembles.
Jenni's lineup is largely inspired by two locales close to my heart: California and New York, featuring candles with names like “Topanga” or “Hamptons." But I started off simple: "Cedar."
A romantically musky blend of rose, tobacco leaf, fir needle, and cedarwood — it’s delicate with an edge. And while I fell for the aroma, what really sold me on these as some of the best candles was its impressive 50-70 hour burn time — a worthwhile indulgence. And after later learning that Cedar made Oprah’s Favorite Things list in 2019, I felt pretty smug about my taste.
Price: $65
Scentscape with woodsy-florals. As with all of Jenni Kayne’s candles, each vessel and scent — a natural blend of coconut, soy, and apricot oil — is developed and hand-poured in Los Angeles, topped with a lead-free cotton wick.
Price: $65
If Cedar sounds like your favorite, then you’re in luck — it’s also available as a room spray. Petite yet powerful, these are great for making your home smell good in a pinch, especially when guests are en route.
One candle turned into two, then three, and, well, you know how it goes. Naturally, I’ve found my favorites, like Santa Ynez — a warm, rustic scent of jasmine, clove, tobacco, and amber, which, having visited the area several times, I can attest is accurate. The trouble is that some (Santa Ynez included) are now tragically sold out…. And full disclosure. I tried to write this article almost two weeks ago, but the candles were selling out too fast.
So here’s my advice: stock up now, whether you’re following in the footsteps of Oprah or just want to get ahead of me hoarding the entire home fragrance collection (there’s a buy-four-get-one-free candle deal). Trust me, Jenni Kayne candles are worth the hype — and the habit.
Here's what's in my shopping cart, right now.
Price: $65
Finally, a candle for horse girls: "Topanga" captures the unbridled freedom of riding through the Canyon, blending green leaves, vanilla, eucalyptus, moss wood, and grapefruit. It’s the perfect pick-me-up on dreary days, giving them a little touch of summer. That versatility likely explains why it boasts a near-perfect 4.9/5 rating from 217 reviewers, many of whom call it their year-round go-to.
Price: $65
Fresh yet grounded, this spearmint, lemon, jasmine, and musk combo is refreshingly unique — and highly giftable. One reviewer calls it a “great hostess gift candle,” noting, “I have a few on hand so I’m always ready when an invite comes my way.”
Price: $65
If flowers are your thing, "Hamptons" is the one: a floral symphony of white rose, apple, green leaves, and geranium. And the fairytale doesn’t have to end once the candle burns out. These sturdy vessels are built to last — just pour in a little boiling water, wait a few minutes, and pop out the wick with pliers. Repurpose them for anything your heart desires.
If you're loving these earthy aromas, why not consider more natural home deodorizers?
Be The First To Know
The Livingetc newsletter is your shortcut to the now and the next in home design. Subscribe today to receive a stunning free 200-page book of the best homes from around the world.
Formerly covering fashion at L’Officiel USA, style maven Julia Demer brings her love of design to Livingetc’s world of interiors. As the title’s New York-based Style Editor, Julia's work reflects a sharp eye for detail and an innate passion for aesthetics. Her journey began with a strong foundation in design, honing her craft at renowned establishments like The Row and even establishing her own eponymous fashion brand. Julia’s design background is evident in the way she thoughtfully curates shopping edits, always maintaining a focus on emerging trends while preserving timeless sensibilities. For Julia, fashion and interiors go hand in hand, reflecting her lifelong commitment to perfecting the art of style.
-
These Chess-Inspired Candles Are My New Fragrance Obsession — They Smell (and Look) Amazing
Become a grandmaster of fragrance. Inspired by the ancient game, MIND GAMES' candles ignite sophistication and thoughtfulness with every strike
By Devin Toolen Published
-
I Tested the Ninja Swirl by CREAMi and the Result? Not Exactly What I Expected
The supersized, soft-serve-spinning sibling of the viral Ninja CREAMi is taking over our FYPs. But does it deliver?
By Julia Demer Published
-
These Chess-Inspired Candles Are My New Fragrance Obsession — They Smell (and Look) Amazing
Become a grandmaster of fragrance. Inspired by the ancient game, MIND GAMES' candles ignite sophistication and thoughtfulness with every strike
By Devin Toolen Published
-
I Tested the Ninja Swirl by CREAMi and the Result? Not Exactly What I Expected
The supersized, soft-serve-spinning sibling of the viral Ninja CREAMi is taking over our FYPs. But does it deliver?
By Julia Demer Published
-
Amber Lewis' Latest Collection Will Trick Your Guests Into Thinking Your Rugs Are Vintage Finds
Interior designer Amber Lewis teamed up with Loloi on a rug collection that replicates with timeworn techniques. Each piece is so convincing, you'd never guess
By Julia Demer Published
-
Walmart Has Great Planters Right Now — My 9 Picks Will Give You the Best-Dressed Houseplants
I've scrolled through thousands of styles to find nine Walmart planters that will have your plants dressed to, well... the nines
By Devin Toolen Published
-
Ever Heard of “Naked Patterns”? Coyuchi’s Barely-There Spring Bedding Brings a Soft and Relaxing Vibe
Faded like sun-bleached linen, effortless as a sea breeze — Coyuchi’s whispering patterns bring the romance of Big Sur straight to bed
By Julia Demer Published
-
Our Interiors Editor Doesn’t Think Tropical Palm Motifs Can be Stylish, So I Set Out on a Mission to Prove Her Wrong
Tropical is trending — but don’t panic. “Island-core” is kicking the kitsch and trading tiki torches for actual taste
By Julia Demer Published
-
This Strangely-Shaped Side-Sleeper Pillow Is Going Viral for Super-Charging Beauty Sleep — And Preventing Wrinkles
This silk-wrapped, ergonomically designed pillow is winning over wellness gurus — and its unusual shape might be the secret to waking up flawless
By Julia Demer Published
-
McGee & Co’s Outdoor 2025 Collection Is Designed to Survive Whatever Life Throws at It — Yes, Even Red Wine
Sun, rain, working from home, and the occasional spilled glass? No problem. This outdoor collection makes an oasis out of everyday obstacles
By Julia Demer Published