Maisonlouismarie Candle No. 14 Icila Review: A Coastal Escape

Maisonlouismarie has long been celebrated for its evocative fragrances that transport you to another place. The Candle No. 14 Icila is no exception—it promises a coastal escape with every burn. In this review, we'll dive into the scent profile, burn quality, and overall experience of this candle, helping you decide if it's the right addition to your home.

Named after the Greek word for 'coast,' Icila is designed to capture the essence of a seaside retreat. But does it deliver on that promise? We put it to the test, burning it over several days to evaluate its fragrance throw, evenness, and longevity. Read on for our honest assessment.

First Impressions and Packaging

The Candle No. 14 Icila arrives in Maisonlouismarie's signature minimalist glass jar with a sleek black lid. The label features a simple yet elegant design, with the scent name and number clearly displayed. The candle weighs 8.5 oz (240g) and has a burn time of approximately 50-60 hours. Upon first opening, the cold throw is subtle but inviting—a blend of salty sea air and soft florals.

The packaging is both beautiful and functional. The glass jar is thick and sturdy, making it reusable after the candle is finished. The black lid fits snugly, keeping dust out when not in use. Overall, the presentation feels luxurious and aligns with the brand's aesthetic.

• Sleek glass jar with black lid
• 8.5 oz (240g) net weight
• Approximate burn time: 50-60 hours

Scent Profile: A Coastal Blend

The fragrance of No. 14 Icila is described as a coastal escape, and it lives up to that description. The top notes are fresh and aquatic, reminiscent of a sea breeze. As the candle burns, the heart reveals delicate floral notes of jasmine and lily, adding a softness that balances the saltiness. The base is a subtle woody musk that grounds the scent without overwhelming it.

This is not a loud or overpowering candle. Instead, it creates a serene ambiance that evokes a peaceful day at the beach. The scent is complex enough to be interesting but not so complex that it becomes cloying. It's perfect for those who prefer a lighter, more natural fragrance in their home.

• Top: Sea salt, ozone
• Heart: Jasmine, lily
• Base: Woody musk, driftwood

Burn Performance and Throw

We tested the Candle No. 14 Icila in a medium-sized living room (approximately 200 sq ft). The first burn was even, with the wax pooling to the edges within two hours—a sign of proper wick sizing. The flame was steady and smoke-free, and we trimmed the wick to 1/4 inch before each subsequent burn as recommended.

The fragrance throw is moderate. In a small to medium room, the scent fills the space comfortably without being overwhelming. In larger open areas, you may need to burn it for a longer period to notice the fragrance. The candle burns cleanly, with minimal soot on the jar, which indicates high-quality wax and wick.

• Even wax pool within 2 hours of first burn
• Moderate throw ideal for bedrooms, bathrooms, or small living rooms
• Clean burn with minimal soot

Comparison with Other Maisonlouismarie Candles

If you're familiar with Maisonlouismarie's candle collection, you might wonder how No. 14 Icila compares to other popular scents. For instance, the Candle - No.04 Bois de Balincourt is a warm, woody scent with sandalwood and cedar, while the Candle - No.03 L'Etang Noir is a dark, mysterious blend of black currant and leather. Icila is lighter and more aquatic, making it a great choice for spring and summer.

Another popular option is the Candle - No.02 Le Long Fond, which features a fresh, green scent with notes of tomato leaf and cucumber. Icila shares a similar freshness but leans more toward the ocean rather than the garden. If you enjoy coastal or aquatic fragrances, Icila is a standout.

• Lighter and more aquatic than Bois de Balincourt
• More floral than Le Long Fond
• Ideal for warmer months or coastal-themed decor

Pros and Cons

• Pros: Beautiful coastal scent, clean burn, elegant packaging, moderate throw perfect for intimate spaces
• Cons: Throw may be too subtle for large rooms, price point is higher than some drugstore candles

Overall, the Maisonlouismarie Candle No. 14 Icila is a lovely addition to any home fragrance collection. Its coastal scent is both calming and refreshing, making it ideal for unwinding after a long day. While the throw is moderate, it performs well in smaller spaces. If you're looking for a candle that transports you to the seaside, this is a wonderful choice. Pair it with the Home Diffuser in a complementary scent to layer your home fragrance experience.