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Do These Expensive Candles Match The Hype?

Updated: Feb 15

Italic has redefined the concept of luxury candles by merging sustainability with affordability. Initially, they introduced their candles at $35 each, choosing to bear a loss to keep prices low for their customers. This approach quickly validated itself as the stock vanished within days, prompting a search for a scalable solution that adhered to their rigorous standards. Today, Italic offers their 8.5-ounce luxury candles at an unbeatable price of $16 to members, proving that premium quality can indeed be accessible.



Embarking on a mission to produce a candle that not only illuminates but also elevates, Italic faced numerous challenges. The company’s commitment to eco-friendliness led them to choose soy-based wax, known for its slow and clean burn, over the commonly used paraffin. To further their environmental efforts, these candles are presented in beautifully reclaimed ocean glass vessels, showcasing Italic's dedication to the planet.





The allure of the overpriced LES candle as a manageable luxury is undeniable, offering a scent that transforms my living space and masks the odors from my dogs' surroundings. Yet, the annual expense of $816 for such ephemeral pleasures prompts a reconsideration of value. This introspection aligns with the broader question of whether these funds could be more wisely spent, perhaps on necessities for my canine companions or a treat for myself.






Italic's entrance into the candle market comes as a response to consumer desires for high-end yet affordable options. By partnering directly with manufacturers who also produce for luxury brands like Hermès and Vera Wang, Italic can offer exquisite scents at a fraction of the cost. This direct-to-consumer model not only disrupts traditional retail but also introduces a level of transparency and value unheard of in the luxury candle segment.



With up to 40 hours of burn time, Italic’s candles offer more than just a scent; they provide a statement of style and practicality. Designed to be both eye-catching and sturdy, these candles are an ideal addition to any decor, ensuring they won’t be easily tipped over by pets. The choice of fragrances, developed to deliver a lasting and robust aroma, turns each candle into a transformative experience, enhancing any room with scents such as Honeysuckle Cederwood.





Their transparent journey from concept to product illuminates the complexities of sustainable production, making each candle not just a purchase but an investment in a broader mission. Offering luxury at a fraction of the usual cost, Italic's model proves that elegance and environmental responsibility can coexist, inviting consumers to be part of a movement that values both quality and ethical consumption.






Launched in 2008, P.F. Candle Co. captivates with its vintage-inspired aesthetic, featuring amber glass jars, labels that mimic typewriter text, and elegant gold lids. The Amber & Moss Soy Candle stands out as a top seller, enchanting with its subtle yet rich fragrance that evokes a serene walk through the woods, combining the earthiness of pine resin and moss with hints of eucalyptus mint and creamy vanilla.


This candle's universally appealing aroma makes it an ideal gift for acquaintances, offering a sophisticated and intricate scent profile that distinguishes it from others in its price category. Its simple design ensures it fits effortlessly into any setting, from modern to traditional homes, and is conveniently available through major retailers like Amazon and Urban Outfitters, as well as P.F. Candle Co.’s own stores in San Francisco and Los Angeles.


While the label may show wear over time, this minor flaw doesn't detract from the candle's overall charm and can be easily remedied. Although not the most potent on the market, it's a preferred choice for those appreciating a milder fragrance. For those seeking an alternative, the Golden Coast Soy Candle offers a fresh, pine-scented aroma with layers of sage, honey, and sea salt, yet the Amber & Moss candle is favored for its more intricate and delightful fragrance.





All in all, the allure of high-priced candles often lies in their sophisticated scents, premium packaging, and the ambiance they promise to deliver. While the cost may raise eyebrows, our exploration reveals that these candles often justify their price tags through complex fragrance profiles, longer burn times, and the ability to transform ordinary spaces into serene havens.


Whether or not they live up to the hype is subjective and largely depends on personal preferences and the value one places on the candle's aesthetic, scent, and overall experience. Ultimately, these luxurious candles offer more than just a source of light; they invite us into a world of sensory delight, where the essence of extravagance is captured in every flicker and whiff.



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