If you’ve been lusting over a Diptyque candle but can’t justify spending over $300, Kmart just dropped three luxury dupes that are nearly identical to the designer original for a fraction of the price.
The retail giant has released three scents in their viral XL Ceramic Candle range:
- XL Amber Tonka Ceramic Candle – $18
- XL Large Vetiver Fig Ceramic Candle – $18
- XL Blackcurrant Rose Ceramic Candle – $18
Each candle weighs 2.1kg (compared to Diptyque’s 1.5kg), features a raised ceramic logo, and comes in a reusable ceramic vessel. The catch? They’re selling out everywhere.
Why everyone’s obsessed
The XL Amber Tonka has become an influencer favourite, with content creators calling it a “run, don’t walk” moment.
“I have wanted this from Mecca for so long, but the OG of this is $368,” content creator Emma Hanson said in an Instagram post. “I cannot justify spending almost $400 on a candle. So when I saw this on Kmart’s website, I ran, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint.”
She added, “It’s the same size as my head. It’s double-wicked. It’s beautifully embossed.”
What do they actually smell like?
Amber Tonka: Emma described this as: “You know in romance novels when they say he smells like cedar and leather and a hint of vanilla? That’s this one. It smells like an expensive hotel and a sexy man. It’s subtle, not overpowering.”
Scent profile: Warm, woody amber blended with sweet tonka bean (think almond-vanilla), cedar, and a hint of tobacco leaf.
Blackcurrant Rose: Based on the Diptyque Baies candle, expect a sophisticated blend of tart blackcurrant berries balanced with fresh Bulgarian rose petals. Think fruity-floral, but not as overpowering as your grandmother’s potpourri. The blackcurrant adds a sharp, tangy edge that keeps the rose from being too sweet.
Vetiver Fig: This one channels Mediterranean vibes with green, earthy vetiver (imagine freshly cut grass with a woody undertone) paired with ripe fig. The fig adds a creamy, milky sweetness, while the vetiver keeps it grounded.
The differences from Diptyque
While the Kmart version looks nearly identical, there are a few key differences:
- Wicks: Kmart has 2 wicks vs. Diptyque’s 5
- Wax: Both use paraffin (not soy)
- Weight: Kmart’s is actually heavier at 2.1kg vs. 1.5kg
- Price: $18 vs. $368+ (you’re saving $350+)
The wick difference: Does it matter?
While this might seem like a minor detail, the wick count can significantly impact candle performance. Five wicks create a larger, more even melt pool, which means better scent throw throughout your room and less risk of “tunnelling” (where wax burns down the middle, leaving unused wax on the sides).
The Diptyque’s 5 wicks also create a more dramatic flame display. That said, for a $350 price difference, the Kmart’s 2 wicks should still perform adequately in medium-sized rooms. Just make sure to burn it long enough on the first use, at least 2-3 hours, to melt the wax to the edges.
Where to buy (if you can find them)
These candles are available at Kmart Australia stores and online, but stock has been extremely limited. The Amber Tonka appears to be sold out in most locations as of Friday.
Check your local Kmart early in the morning after a restock, or set up stock alerts on the website.
For $18, these are an absolute steal, even if they’re not a perfect match for Diptyque. The ceramic vessel alone is worth the price, and once you’re done burning, you’ve got a cute planter.
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