Legend has it that it takes 10,000 hours to be an expert in something. And, while I haven't logged my hours, I think it's safe to say that I'm a low-key candle expert. I don't use candles as an occasional way to set the mood or up my home's cosy factor; they're part of my daily routine. Every day, I light a candle while I'm making a fresh pot of coffee or loading the dishwasher — and it never fails to start my day off on the right note. (Not to brag or anything, but I was a guest on a candle podcast and often review a few of my faves on Instagram Stories. *Hair flip*)
As someone who already has a cabinet filled with candles, I know that I technically don't need more. But, since I firmly believe a scent can really set the tone for dinner parties [1], WFH days, or laid-back move nights, I'm always eager to expand my collection. Fortunately, Target has a bunch of candles that not only smell delicious, but are also incredibly affordable. (That way, I can grow my collection without totally blowing my shopping budget.) If you're looking to build your own assortment, check out the ones that piqued my interest below. Whether you're on the hunt for a fall-friendly fragrance, something summery [2], or a soothing scent, you're bound to find the perfect match here.
Holiday Ready: Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Sugared Birch Lidded Jar Container Candle
I don't mean to freak you out or anything, but the holidays will be here before you know it. And, if you want to get a head start on your holiday decor shopping, reach for this Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Sugared Birch Lidded Jar Container Candle [4] ($13). The woodsy base is reminiscent of a Christmas tree, but the sugary notes will give your flame a little something extra. It's festive without being in-your-face.
Laid-Back Luxury: Opalhouse Coastal Linen Lidded Glass Jar 2-Wick Candle
Consider Opalhouse's Coastal Linen Lidded Glass Jar 2-Wick Candle [5] ($10) the perfect candle to light all day, every day. Notes of linen, lavender, and grapefruit balance each other perfectly, creating this inexplicably, can't-put-your-finger-on-it good scent.
Seaside Style: Threshold Cerulean Surf & Sea Lidded Milky Glass Jar Candle
I'm a total sucker for summery scents. (Suntan lotion? The salty beach air? Chlorinated pools? Check, check, and, shockingly, check.) With oceanic notes — as well as hints of lavender and geranium — this Threshold Cerulean Surf & Sea Lidded Milky Glass Jar Candle [6] ($5) will have your home smelling like summer all year long.
Unforgettable Floral: Project 62 Glass Jar Jasmine and Ylang Ylang Candle
Florals? In a candle? Groundbreaking. If you want to give a fragrance a little more oomph, this Project 62 Glass Jar Jasmine and Ylang Ylang Candle [7] ($5-$15) is a must. The rich aroma of ylang-ylang will give this candle's dainty floral notes a tough edge.
What's Your Sign?: Project 62 Birthstone Ceramic Jar Amethyst Candle
If you want to give your candle collection a personal twist, you'll love Project 62's Birthstone Ceramic Jar Amethyst Candle [8] ($8). This collection features 12 scents that are heavily inspired by the birthstones. (Project 62 reimagined August's peridot with notes of geranium, sweet musk, and woody amber.) Not only is this a great option for any astrology-obsessed candle enthusiast, but it'll also make for a great (and affordable!) gift.
Fall Friendly: Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Harvest Spice Soy Candle
Get into the autumnal spirit with a Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Harvest Spice Soy Candle [9] ($6-$25). Not only does the mix of vanilla, clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg smell downright dreamy, but this candle also comes in an irresistibly chic canister. (It's like the fragrance equivalent to wearing a chunky sweater.)
Sensory Experience: Threshold Leather and Embers Lidded Glass Jar Crackling Wooden Wick Candle
If you're looking to appeal to all of the senses, reach for Threshold's Leather and Embers Lidded Glass Jar Crackling Wooden Wick Candle [10] ($12 -$18). In addition to its delicious aroma of leather and embers, but it also has a specially designed wick that sounds just like a crackling fire.
Scented Serenity: Casaluna Tranquility Glass Jar 4-Wick Candle
Want to give your some space serious spa vibes? This Casaluna Tranquility Glass Jar 4-Wick Candle [11] ($25) is packed with calming notes like lavender and chamomile. Plus, it has four wicks, which will give this scent some extra throw. (Read: your entire apartment will smell like a serene sanctuary.)
Buh-Bye, Bugs: Opalhouse Citronella Candle With Lemongrass
Of course, candles aren't all about good smells; they can be practical, too. This Opalhouse Citronella Candle With Lemongrass [12] ($5) will help keep bugs away the next time you dine al fresco.
Opalhouse x Jungalow Lidded Terracotta Jar 3-Wick Candle
I know I shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but the terra cotta canister of this Opalhouse x Jungalow Lidded Terracotta Jar 3-Wick Candle [13] ($20) is next-level chic. Fortunately, the intoxicating blend of bergamot, orange blossom, and rose is just as impressive.
Something Sugary: Opalhouse Blushing Amber Lidded Glass Jar 2-Wick Candle
Vanilla is one of my favourite cold-weather scents, but I realise it's not for everyone. If straight-up vanilla is too much, you'll love this Opalhouse Blushing Amber Lidded Glass Jar 2-Wick Candle [14] ($10). Decked out with notes like vanilla, amber, and sugar, this candle has the slightest whiff of homemade cookies.
I Heart NY: Homesick New York Candle
I moved to San Francisco from New York six months before the shelter-in-place order — and I'm always looking for ways to celebrate my roots in my new city. A savory blend of clove, nutmeg, and apple peel, this Homesick New York Candle [15] ($19) reminds me of apple picking on the East Coast.
Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Zest Soy Blend Candle
If you're looking for a scent that feels downright clean, it doesn't get any better than a fresh citrus candle. This Hearth & Hand With Magnolia Zest Soy Blend Candle [16] ($6) ticks off all of the boxes, not to mention the concrete canister gives this pick a minimalist edge.