Bath and Body Works found themselves in hot water after a candle from their winter collection sparked outrage due to its unfortunate resemblance to Ku Klux Klan hoods. Bath and Body Works quickly apologized and pulled their “Snowed In” candle from the shelves. They reassured customers they were evaluating their design process. Critics and defenders debate the controversy across social media with some claiming it just looks like a paper snowflake.
Controversial Candle Design
Bath and Body Works issued an apology following backlash over their “Snowed In” candle, which critics claimed bore an accidental resemblance to Ku Klux Klan hoods. The controversy erupted when consumers pointed out the design’s similarity to the white supremacist symbol, sparking a heated debate on social media. Critics argued the design should have been more carefully considered, while some consumers dismissed the backlash as an overreaction.
The “Snowed In” candle, initially intended to showcase the beauty of paper snowflakes, quickly became a symbol of controversy. As criticism spread, Bath and Body Works took swift action by removing the product from store shelves and their website, reaffirming their dedication to correcting design errors. The company stated that the resemblance was unintentional, emphasizing their commitment to avoiding such missteps in the future.
A Bath and Body Works candle is creating quite the controversy.
It has a label "snowed in" and is decorated with a paper snowflake – But many say it looks like the hoods and robes worn by Ku Klux Klan members.
— ABC7 Eyewitness News (@ABC7) October 14, 2024
Corporate Response and Future Prevention Measures
Bath and Body Works expressed regret over the design oversight and assured customers they were reviewing their internal processes to prevent similar issues. They have emphasized listening to consumer feedback as a key component of their corporate philosophy, vowing to be more diligent in the design approval process. In addressing the incident, the company aims to rebuild trust with its customers by demonstrating a proactive approach to handling unforeseen challenges.
The controversy highlighted the delicate balance companies must maintain when designing products that incorporate cultural elements. Bath and Body Works has pledged to learn from this incident and focus on fostering an inclusive and respectful brand image. They hope their actions serve as a reminder of the power of consumer feedback and the importance of sensitivity in product design.
Bath & Body Works is apologizing for selling a candle with packaging that some people said looked like Ku Klux Klan hoods. https://t.co/EgAwxAskoS
— ABC News (@ABC) October 15, 2024
Social Media Fallout and Online Debates
The incident sparked varied responses across platforms like the Bath and Body Works subreddit and X. Users expressed strong opinions about the design, questioning the design approval process while others defended the candle as a misinterpreted snowflake. The incident underscored how promotional imagery can sometimes unintentionally evoke sensitive historical issues, leading to larger discussions surrounding corporate responsibility and cultural awareness.
While some social media users created a thread called “KKKKandles” to critique the product, others stood by the company’s swift response and apology, appreciating their openness to feedback. The event likewise invited broader conversations on race and identity, prompting deeper reflection on how design choices can inadvertently convey unintended messages to diverse audiences.
