Shoutout: These Pencil Candles are a Color-Lover’s Dream

Seeing is believing. And guess what you’re seeing right now? The fact that you can use colored pencils AS candles. For real.

Victoria at A Subtle Revelry figured this genius hack out, after seeing something similar on Pinterest where someone used crayons as candles. I’m sure she had one of those “a-ha” moments when realizing that colored pencils double as candles. We can’t wait to try this out for the next Brit + Co. birthday!

What other creative candles (or faux candles) have you seen recently? Talk to us in the comments below.

Though they existed long before electricity, candelabras have been so stylishly adapted for modern times. They’re the *perfect* accent piece to decorate to your living room or bedroom with – especially this time of year – because when lit, candelabras provide bouts of warm, cozy light. We’re thankful that we don’t have to solely rely on candlelight to get around the house at night, but we’ll still strike a match to some taper candles and immerse ourselves in the comforting feels as we whip up some comfort food and switch on our favorite TV shows. These 14 enchanting candelabras will help you do the same as we settle into late fall and winter.

Ditmer Denmark Art Piece Candleholder

This organically-shaped candelabra, crafted from stone resin, is durable enough to last years ​in your home. The form recalls that of a tree trunk, so if your aesthetic is rooted in nature, bring the outdoors in with this pick. ​

CosmoLiving by Cosmopolitan Gold Candlestick Holders

This more modern take on candelabras holds three flames, supplying enough ambience to be a graceful centerpiece for your next dinner party.

Erin Fetherston Dulcette Candelabra

Whether you style it on its own or alongside a fresh bouquet of flowers, this design will make for an excellent addition to your place's entryway or your bedroom dresser.

Bloomingville Deeb Aluminium Candle Holder

This candelabra leans on the side of utilitarian with its bold structure and contrasting black hue. Even if you can't see yourself displaying it year-round, it'd be a pretty epic Halloween decor piece!

House Doctor Doctor Tristy Brass Candle Stand

We're obsessed with the criss-cross nature of this candle holder. Brass is a considerably versatile material, so you can rotate it from room to room as the seasons change.

Novica Recycled Metal Candelabra Margarita Temple

Color lovers, there are definitely some candelabras out there for you. This handcrafted design hails from Peru and boasts plenty of vibrant florals. Even without candlesticks, it's an art piece in itself!

Wyn Cream Candelabra

Make sure your cozy nights in are illuminated by the warm glow that candelabras can provide. This squiggly design also infuses your space with a good touch of playfulness! Place two different colored candles in the holes for even more joy.

Sommer Triton Candleholder

The unpolished look on this holder achieves a very homey vibe. The trio of arms are fitted for these Celebration Candles, but you could also put some plant clippings or flower stems in them when you don't want to deal with dripping wax.

CosmoLiving by Cosmopolitan Contemporary Metal Candle Holder Gold

This candelabra flaunts an extended length, so if you have a long dinner table, it'd be a wonderful centerpiece. Complete your suppertime tablescape with fun glassware and fresh flowers.

Hand-Forged Black Metal Taper Candle Holder Centerpiece by Jake Arnold

This lively pick provides an eye-catching loop graphic that will work well for any season.

The Latch Key Ibis Candelabra

Perhaps one of the most unique candelabras out there, this option comes in three different shades so you can find the one that's right for your space. It *also* comes with a hand-dipped candlestick so you're all set to light it up in one step!

Gold 5-Arm Metal Candelabra Taper Candle Holder

We could see this golden, weaving candelabra being perfectly adorned by poinsettias and tinsel during Christmastime.

Lovebirds Black Metal Candelabra by Lucia Eames

This design totally makes a statement on its own. If you share your space with a partner or spouse, pay homage to your togetherness with this lovey-dovey candelabra!

CB2 Cinq Large White Multi Taper Candle Holder

Highly sculptural, this candle holder holds up to 9 whole candlesticks! Make it the star of your dining set-up or coffee table spread.

Find more of our favorite home decor picks each week by signing up for our weekly shopping newsletter!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Lead image via The Latch Key.

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

Autumn is all about sprucing up your fall decor, pinning a million Halloween costume ideas on Pinterest, and of course, lighting up a fall candle that encapsulates *everything* you love about the season. This season, wood, sage, and leather are taking center stage – but there's always room on your coffee table for a classic pumpkin spice scent or a crisp, fruity fragrance that will have everyone who comes into your home asking, “what are you burning?" Check out some of our favorite fall candles — and make sure you stock up on a few as holiday gifts for your favorite people.

Anecdote Comfort Zone Candle

With hints of coffee and cedarwood, this is the perfect scent for when your introvert self takes over and you just want to curl up on the couch with a book. Orange blossom, vanilla, and patchouli round the ambience out for a scent that we truly cannot get enough of.

Glasshouse Pumpkin Spiced Cake Candle

Why settle for one cup of a PSL when you could have your whole space smell like one? Make your most recent Starbucks run last just a tad longer with this pumpkin-y fall candle that brings forth warm spices and, of course, pumpkin.

Public Goods Cedar & Suede Soy Candle

Light this warm and woodsy candle with a match for instant homey vibes, no matter where you are. Sandalwood, amber, and notes of leather notes come together to form an intoxicating fragrance that you (and your guests) will be obsessed with.

Just Bee Apple Harvest Candle

Spice up your home with this blend of baked apple, warm spice, citrus, and currant. This is great for anyone who isn't a huge fan of super sweet scents, but still wants in on the fun. Fall vibes = found. Now all you need is an apple pie in the oven.

Boy Smells Hinoki Fantôme Candle

Each meditative whiff of this fall-friendly candle brings forth notes of Japanese cypress, jasmine petals, and warm amber. It's pretty earthy, which is ideal for those rainy autumn days spent inside.

DW Home Warm Tobacco Pipe Candle

This comforting fall candle suits up with unexpected tobacco and soft-brushed suede. It's entrenched with aromatic greens, soft weathered woods, earthy patchouli, and smoky leather for a very warm feel.

Voluspa Spiced Pumpkin Latte Jar Candle

It wouldn't be autumn without at least one or two (or three or four) pumpkin candles! This chic option takes the classic scent and spices it up with vanilla, marshmallow, whipped coconut créma, and cinnamon spiced brûlée. Plus, the jar is just gorgeous.

Salt & Stone Black Rose and Vetiver Candle

This vegan, soy-based candle screams falltime. The black rose mixes so well with the vetiver aromas to accompany your seasonal baking projects, reading marathons, and movie nights.

Flamingo Estate Night Blooming Jasmine & Damask Rose Candle

Equal parts sweet and strongly fragrant, this euphoric fall-centric scent will send you comfortably off to bed each night.

Homesick Autumn Hayride Candle

This photo is *exactly* where we'd like to be right now. This fall candle scent transports you to a similar vibe, utilizing a satisfying combo of hay, birchwood, sweet maple, and warm amber.

Chalk Full of Love Palo Santo Candle

All you need is the warmth and toasted finish of baked goods, and all of a sudden, it feels like fall. With a fresh combination of palo santo, this soy-based candle will complete your coziest days.

Capri Blue Pumpkin Clove Glass Jar Candle

This pumpkin and clove scent is housed in a beautiful glass jar that's shaped for the occasion – fall!

Thymes Simmered Cider Candle

Settle in and cozy up with this candle lit by your side. It'll provide an especially autumnal aroma, full of apples, cardamom, and malted rum to bring on the spice.

Uncommon James Tennessee Pine Candle

This candle is a fall road trip in a jar. You can bring the outdoors in when it's lit and emitting smells like eucalyptus, cedarwood, and patchouli!

Backyard Candles Oakmoss & Amber

The sage, lavandin, and orange essential oils work together to make this fall candle. Light this one when you wake up for an extra lift to your morning routine, or save it for your next relaxing bubble bath.

Image via Hello Glow

DIY Chai Candles in Canning Jars

Save your pennies, and DIY your own candles this year. It's easier than you think, and you can totally personalize the scents to get something one of a kind. (via Hello Glow)

Byredo Bibliothèque Bougie Parfumée Candle

No big deal, but this just happens to be Taylor Swift's favorite candle ever. This luxurious leather-scented candle is laced with vanilla and will have you feelin' like you're sitting pretty in your own leather-bound library.

Yankee Candle Autumn Daydream

If you're the outdoorsy type who loves getting out in that cool fall air, this candle was made for you.

Diptyque Feu de Bois Candle

No crackling fireplace to light up this season? No worries – this sophisticated blend of rare woods will have you believe you're sitting cozy next to an open fire – even if it's just a one-wick candle. This scent from the infamous French brand Diptyque is a warm blend of wood, smoke, and hints of spruce.

Bath & Body Works Autumn Candle

Ditch the usual cinnamon scents in favor of this three-wick autumn-clad candle. Just like an orchard, tones of green apple, fig, white birch, and cedar take this candle to the next level.

Jonathan Adler Bourbon Candle

This lush scent is housed in a sleek copper container that's begging to be reused as a vase when you've burned it all up. Whether you're a bourbon drinker, or more of a Champagne kind of gal, you'll love the notes of cognac, plum, leather and cedarwood this elegant fall candle brings to your home.

What does your favorite fall candle smell like? If you're looking for all things autumn, follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to our email newsletter!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

I have such a love/hate relationship with haircuts. While I love the feeling of a fresh look as much as the next girl, I hate having to spend $100+ for a simple cut and blow dry session. During my recent trim, I talked with my hairdresser, Jack Rehak of Jack’s Hair Design in Hinsdale, Illinois, about ways to keep a haircut looking new and best practices for keeping hair healthy. Here's what he had to say!

Here's How Often You Should Cut Your Hair, According To Professionals

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

I’ll admit it — it had been eight months since my last haircut. My hair had lost its shape, my layers were nowhere to be found, and my ends were begging for mercy. Life got busy over the last few months and I was neglecting my haircare like never before.

My hairdresser could immediately see that I was beyond due for a cut and said I needed to get more taken off than I was hoping. I was definitely disappointed — I'd been working on growing out my hair for a while now, and it just felt like my hard work had completely gone to waste. He explained that getting consistent haircuts is the key to growing out healthy and strong hair, rather than letting it grow and grow until it eventually breaks. So let's dig into the top three things you can do to avoid this scenario!

1. Just Get The Dang Haircut

Photo by RDNE Stock project/PEXELS

Also avoiding a haircut like I was? You might want to schedule one at your nearest salon. Like my stylist said, when you wait too long between trims like I did, you risk your hair becoming heavy, dull, and lifeless. When the hair is dry or even dead, it’s nearly impossible for it to hold a curl or style, essentially collapsing on you and taking on more and more heat damage all the while. I know the pain of spending time on a blowout only for it to fall minutes later — it’s the worst.

According to Jack, getting a haircut every 10-12 weeks is the best time frame or your ends will pay the price. Between blow-drying, curling, straightening, sun, and weather, our ends get dry and start to break without the proper care. Getting consistent haircuts allows hair to bounce back, shine, and perform the way we want in a healthy way.

2. Leave-In Conditioners Are Your Friend

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

His top piece of advice to keep your hair looking and feeling hydrated between trims? Invest in conditioning treatments. Jack swears by the Olaplex conditioning system, specifically the No 3 Hair Perfector. Made with patented OLAPLEX Bond Building Technology™, this conditioning treatment repairs and prevents damage in as little as three minutes. No 3 promises to reduce breakage and visibly strengthen hair, so it’s the perfect assistance to keep ends fresh between cuts. Another conditioning treatments I’ve used and loved for years is the Moroccanoil Intense Hydrating Mask, which is designed to restore moisture, elasticity, and shine to dry hair.

3. Switch Up Your Shampoos

Photo by Karolina Grabowska/PEXELS

Switching shampoos frequently is a pretty hot tip that I honestly hadn't thought of. Our hair gets used to the same products and grows tired of them, resulting in lackluster locks. Jack’s advice is to switch brands after finishing every bottle of shampoo to bring life back to your hair. Have two brands that you’re loyal to? Even switching back and forth between them after every bottle should make a big difference in your hair. I’m a huge fan of the R+Co Dallas Biotin Thickening Shampoo, which makes my hair look thick and full, as well as the Moroccanoil Hydrating Shampoo, which is so hydrating and gives so much shine.

Photo by cottonbro studio/PEXELS

In the end, navigating your back-and-forth relationship with haircuts often feels like a rollercoaster ride between wanting that fresh look and cringing at the receipt. Luckily, by using conditioning treatments and switching up your products,, you can keep your locks healthy, shiny, and full of life between trims. But take a newly learned lesson out of my book: don't let your ends pay the price for procrastination and just book the haircut.

If you need some more hair inspo and advice, be sure to sign up for our weekly email newsletter!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Header image via Nataliya Vaitkevich/PEXELS

With Mother's Day around the corner, it's time to celebrate moms of all kinds, and step moms deserve some special recognition, too! If you're grappling with finding the perfect gift that expresses your love and gratitude for your step mom, these 20 gifts are the way to go. This curated list of thoughtful step mom gifts for Mother's Day will get you going on a gifting kick and make any step mom's heart swell with joy and appreciation. 💓

Rinna Beauty Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil

The glossiness of this lip oil alone will feel like a total gift! One swipe using the soft, sizable wand delivers a sheer tint of color, all while encouraging plumpness and moisture with its peptide formulation.

The Larger Than Life Lip Plumping Oil from Rinna Beauty comes in 5 other shades for $24 on Amazon.

Anthropologie Faye Planter

For the step mom with an undeniable green thumb, this decorative purple planter from Anthropologie makes repotting process super fun! Dotted in adorable outdoor creature and plant motifs, the pot is not only practical, but looks good, too. It measures about 8 inches in diameter to fit a variety of small house plants.

The Faye Planter is currently on sale for $31 (was $44) for a limited time.

Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Cotton Checkered Throw

She's gonna want to live in this cozy throw blanket 24/7. It's crafted from a blend of Barefoot Dreams' CozyChic material and a light cotton for added breathability. The light, neutral checkered pattern makes it the perfect match for any space!

This stylish throw, made to last a lifetime, goes for $148 from Barefoot Dreams.

DedCool Room & Linen Spray

Think of this spray as an instant refresh for any bedroom, bathroom, or living room, supplying a saturated scent of bergamot, vanilla, and amber. It's also compatible to spritz on sheets, blankets, and pillows to create a soothing atmosphere every time your step mom comes home!

The DedCool Room & Linen Spray comes in two other scents for $40.

Compartés Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers 20-Piece Truffle Gift Box

When all your other gift ideas fail, there's nothing wrong with chocolate! This truffle box is perfectly elevated to give as a standalone gift – it's impressively decorated and seamlessly packaged for a memorable Mother's Day treat. Some of the spring-inspired flavors included are: raspberry rose, lavender, poppy seed, and passionfruit.

The Mother's Day Chocolate Flowers gift box is $60 and comes with 20 gourmet truffles.

Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer

This moisturizer delivers 24-hour hydration with a dense formula of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and glycerin. It has a lightweight yet creamy feel, perfect for slathering on under SPF and makeup. Your step mom's skin will absolutely soak this clinically-proven cream up, and she'll be feeling like a new woman every single time she puts it on!

The Fig.1 Ceramide Moisturizer goes for $32 and is also refillable once it's fully used up.

Little Secret Round Sunglasses

Keep her lookin' so cool with a pair of trendy sunnies! This timeless style from Free People channels the 90's and makes for chic everyday eyewear with any outfit.

The Little Secret Round Sunglasses are shoppable in 5 other colors for $30.

The Pioneer Woman 3-Piece Floral Check Ceramic Lidded Bowl Set

Your step mom's serving, baking, and cooking projects just got such a stylish upgrade! This trio of checkered ceramic bowls designed by The Pioneer Woman make every dish look stunning, plus each one comes equipped with a decorative wooden lid for convenient storage.

This 3-piece bowl set goes for $33 at Walmart.

Sand + Fog Pistachio Dream Eau De Parfum Oil

This perfume oil can be used sparingly – meaning it'll last a long time – and delivers delicious notes of pistachio, vanilla, brown sugar, and cream to make step mom smell like a total treat. She won't want to go a day without putting some on!

This perfume is $13 at Marshall's.

Versed Total Package SPF 30 Body Lotion

This body lotion is really a 2-in-1 deal: hydrating and protective against the sun. It's packed with SPF 30 to give the skin a light shield against harmful UV rays, all while replenishing moisture with a delightfully-smelling mix of cupuaçu butter and grapeseed oil. It's not sticky or oily at all!

The Versed Total Package body lotion is $20 at Target.

Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals

These trendy slip-on sandals from Maeve are the epitome of cool girl style for summertime. Your step mom will be stepping out looking so good with these as a gift! The upper is made from durable leather, while the sole is a comfortable rubber material to withstand walking.

The Maeve Buckle Slide Sandals are shoppable in 4 other colors and are on sale for $104 (was $130) for a limited time.

Chamberlain Coffee Strawberry Matcha Latte Mix

Switch up her morning routine with this deliciously sweet matcha mix from Chamberlain Coffee! It's earthy, fruity, and made with oat milk for otherworldly creaminess. All it requires is some hot water, a good froth, and from there, your step mom can customize her sip with more milk or creamer.

This drink mix goes for $19 at Target.

L.L. Bean Open-Top Boat and Tote

This classic tote bag from L.L. Bean is the perfect vehicle for carrying work essentials, groceries, clothing, and more! It can be ordered in small, medium, large, or extra-large sizes, with the option for short or long straps.

This bag comes in 11 other colors. The small size is $30 and the extra-large is $45.

Ban.do Oven Mitt Pot Holder Set

For the step mom that loves all things colorful, this oven mitt + pot holder set will bring some joy into her kitchen set-up. Both are crafted from cotton with quilted stitching and feature small loops for easy hanging.

The duo is shoppable for $30 from Ban.do.

Auburn Home 3-Piece Glass Taper Candle Holders

These funky candle holders can go together as a set, or spread out around the house for a unique touch. Bundle them with some taper candles to complete the gift!

This colorful trio goes for $25 at Marshall's.

Verloop Raffia Phone Sling

Any on-the-go step mom will appreciate this convenient phone sling for its carrying capabilities, but it's also supremely stylish! The bright colorway is summertime's perfect match, so she can take it along for vacations and outdoor outings alike. The thin shoulder strap is adjustable in length so she can find the best fit for her needs.

The Verloop Raffia Phone Sling is shoppable in three other colors for $38.

Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set

Gift sets are always a good bet if you're stuck on what to get your step mom for Mother's Day. This luxe 4-piece set from Osea comes complete with body butter, body oil, body balm, and body scrub (all inside a cute zip bag) so she can treat herself to a full-on spa day right at home!

The Osea Bestsellers Bodycare Set is $52 (a $78 value).

UrbanStems The Parade Bouquet

Flowers are welcome any time of year, but a gorgeous bouquet like this one is so fitting for Mother's Day. With UrbanStems, you can select a specific delivery date, and your step mom will receive a fresh grouping, ready to display at home!

The Parade Bouquet is $60, with the option to add a vase for $15+.

Material Kitchen The Cloud Pitcher

Whether it's used for a batched cocktail or a big serving of iced coffee, this stylish glass pitcher from Material Kitchen is a statement piece to be reckoned with. The glass is surprisingly light for transport, and it's dishwasher-safe for added convenience after the fact!

The Cloud Pitcher comes in three other colors for $95.

Ban.do Meal Planner

This meal planner pad is *the* way to keep track of what she'll make and when she's gonna eat it. It has three lines for each day of the week, plus a roomy list for ingredients she may be missing.

This meal planner is $15 from Ban.do and has 50 sheets.

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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Image via brands.