The 15 most popular fragrance notes explained - and what they really go with
If you've ever read a fragrance description and still didn't know if the candle was right for you - you're not alone.
Terms like top note, heart note and base note sound clever, but rarely help with the actual question:
How do I want to feel?
Therefore, we explain fragrance notes here not technically, but emotionally and in an understandable way.
Top, middle & base notes - simply explained
Headnote
The top note is what you smell immediately.
It's the first impression and it fades relatively quickly.
Typical top notes are citrus fruits, herbs, or fresh fruits.
Heart note
The heart note unfolds after a few minutes.
It determines the actual character of the fragrance and remains present during the burning process.
Typical heart notes are floral, spice, or fruity notes.
Base grade
The base note lasts the longest.
It gives the fragrance depth and warmth, and makes it seem well-rounded.
Typical base notes are vanilla, woods, musk or amber.
In short:
Head = Hello
Heart = That's me
Basis = That remains
The 15 most popular fragrance notes - meaning & effect
1. Vanilla
Effect: warm, soft, soothing
Feeling: Security, comfort, closeness
Perfect for quiet evenings and cozy moods.
2. Bergamot
Effect: fresh, slightly bitter, clear
Feeling: Focus, freshness, lightness
Ideal for clear thinking and fresh start moments.
3. Citrus notes (lime, lemon, mandarin)
Effect: invigorating, activating
Feeling: Energy, optimism, motivation
It fits well with morning routines and moments when you need a boost.
4. Sandalwood
Effect: warm, creamy, soft
Feeling: Calm, grounding, depth
Ideal for evenings when everything can slow down.
5. Musk
Effect: warm, clean, close to the skin
Feeling: closeness, security, intimacy
Subtle and never loud, but very connecting.
6. Patchouli
Effect: earthy, slightly sweet, deep
Feeling: Stability, maturity, character
For people who like depth.
7. Rose
Effect: floral, soft, elegant
Feeling: Affection, gentleness, romance
Romantic without being kitschy.
8. Lily
Effect: clean, calm, floral
Feeling: Order, clarity, lightness
Ideal for creating a home and arrival mood.
9. Coconut
Effect: creamy, warm
Feeling: Relaxation, lightness, escapism
Like a short break - without any suitcases.
10. Tonka
Effect: warm, slightly sweet, well-rounded
Feeling: Comfort, balance, depth
Makes fragrances soft and harmonious.
11. Amber
Effect: warm, slightly resinous
Feeling: Security, elegance, evening atmosphere
Perfect for cozy, intimate moods.
12. Woody notes (cedar, guaiac wood, vetiver)
Effect: dry, earthy, stable
Feeling: Calm, structure, grounding
Ideal for retreat and mental clarity.
13. Spices (cinnamon, clove, anise)
Effect: warm, intense
Feeling: Nostalgia, comfort, depth
Highly emotional - often underestimated.
14. Fruity notes (berry, plum, pear)
Effect: juicy, playful
Feeling: Joy, lightness, fun
Perfect for gifts and celebratory moments.
15. Herbs (basil, eucalyptus)
Effect: fresh, green, clear
Feeling: Focus, breathing deeply, clarity
Ideal for clearing your head.
Warm or cool - what suits your mood?
Choose warm fragrances if you want to unwind, seek closeness, or relax in the evening.
Vanilla, amber, sandalwood or tonka bean would go well with it.
Choose fresh fragrance notes when you need energy, want to start afresh, or are looking for focus.
Citrus notes, bergamot and herbs go well with this.
Choose fruity fragrance notes if you want to celebrate something, are looking for a gift, or want lightness.
Berries, plums or pears go well with this.
Which fragrance notes you will find at Makagi
At Makagi, fragrances are not thought of in isolation, but always in connection with mood and moment.
With us you'll find warm gourmand notes for cozy moods, fresh citrus notes for new beginnings, floral and clean scents for a feeling of home, and fruity notes for birthdays and gifts.
Not: Which fragrance is currently trendy?
But: What do you need right now?
If you'd like to browse directly, you can find all the suitable fragrances in our selection of scented candles .
Conclusion
It's nice to know fragrance notes.
Knowing how they work is crucial.
Next time you buy candles, don't ask yourself if you like vanilla.
Ask yourself how you want to feel.
The right fragrance then comes almost by itself.
