Olivia Palermo and Sicily Hill Have the Answer for Those Doing Summer Staycations

“Typically, Johannes and I would have a packed schedule going from the couture shows in Paris to Italy, and then to visit friends in London before dotting back home,” says Olivia about her pre-pandemic summer schedule. “Now, it’s a bit more local but that doesn’t mean we can’t bring our travels home with us.” To that end, Olivia has teamed up with haute, female-led candlemaker Sicily Hill. “Jessica [Hill Howard] is adorable, and, like me, studied abroad. I love that she captured the experiences she had into her own distinctive way.” The feeling was mutual with Howard beaming over her collaborator. “Olivia was a dream,” says Howard, adding, “blending our respective brands was a joy and a creative and rewarding challenge.” The resulting Olivia Palermo | Sicily Hill Citrus Blossom candle is a work of art marrying the worlds of fragrance and fashion. “Everything from the exterior packaging to the scent bring all my worlds together with elegance,” adds Olivia.

Building off her studies as a handbag designer, Howard worked with Olivia on creating the fanciful outer shell for the oversize candle. “It reminds me of the old-school hatboxes that women would travel with down to the little handle,” adds Olivia. Howard notes, “Olivia was hands-on in all aspects of the design process. [She] has a refined aesthetic and vision.” The resulting piece can be used as a handbag, note the leather strap, or a pretty catchall at home. “The colors are very me,” says Olivia of the rich burgundy, acidic mustard, and hunter green shades on the exterior. “I love the deep jewel tones that mimic old world high jewelry pieces.” Inside, it’s equally luxe. “We did our custom candle votive in a high gloss, hunter green finish, which when looks equally elegant for men or women wherever they decide to set it.”

SicilyHill.comAs for the scent, it takes its cues from the Italian and Mediterranean coasts with notes of lemon (inspired by Olivia’s trips to Sicily), aromatic peonies (Olivia’s favorite flower), and white blossom (for that final fresh note). “These are some of my favorite notes,” says Olivia, adding, “and to be able to combine them into something special, that everyone can enjoy wherever they are is truly magical.” The process of achieving the right balance was fun for both Olivia and Howard, who says, “the blend of textures and colors in the design make Citrus Blossom a statement piece for the home.” And with summer party season just around the corner—Memorial Day is on the 31st!—Olivia wanted to create something special that hosts and guests alike could savor, enjoy, and buy themselves. “I love entertaining and imagine we’ll all be doing a lot more of it this summer outdoors. One way I inject a refined touch to any party is to set the table with candles which burn brighter as the sun sets,” shares Olivia. “Plus if you’re a guest, who doesn’t love receiving a beautiful candle?,” she adds with a laugh. 

To purchase the Olivia Palermo | Sicily Hill Citrus Blossom candle, please visit SicilyHill.com.

Created in partnership with Sicily Hill.