Bath and Body Works recently faced backlash for a candle design that many believed resembled a Ku Klux Klan hood. The candle, named “Snowed In,” featured a stylized snowflake on its label. However, numerous social media users pointed out the striking resemblance to the hoods worn by Klan members. The KKK is known as one of the oldest and most notorious hate groups in the United States, with its hood being considered a hate symbol by organizations like the Southern Poverty Law Center and the Anti-Defamation League.
As a result of the controversy, Bath and Body Works swiftly removed the candle from its website and retail locations. The company issued a statement to CNN, acknowledging that the design was unintentional and apologizing to anyone who was offended. They emphasized their commitment to listening to their customers and teams and rectifying any mistakes made. Comments on Reddit referred to the candle as a “klandle” or a “Klan Krismas Kandle,” highlighting the negative reactions from the public. Some customers who had ordered the candle online before the removal reported that their orders were canceled.
Despite being discontinued by Bath and Body Works, the “Snowed In” candle has appeared on sale on platforms like eBay, with one listing asking for $350. The company did not provide any further comments on the issue. Candles are a significant part of Bath and Body Works’ product line, constituting a large portion of their annual sales. Each year, they release holiday-scented candles that are highly popular among customers. This incident with the controversial candle shines a light on the challenges that brands face when it comes to product design and avoiding unintended connotations.
The backlash surrounding the “Snowed In” candle has raised concerns about the importance of staying vigilant about potential associations with hate symbols in product design. Bath and Body Works’ response to the situation demonstrates a willingness to listen to feedback and take corrective action. The incident also underscores the power of social media in calling out brands for insensitive or inappropriate product choices. As a prominent retailer with a wide customer base, Bath and Body Works must be mindful of the messages conveyed by its products and ensure they align with the values of inclusivity and respect.
Moving forward, Bath and Body Works will likely reassess their design processes to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. By evaluating their procedures and possibly implementing additional checks and balances, they can minimize the risk of unintentional offensive designs. In an era where social media amplifies public scrutiny and criticism, brands must be proactive in addressing any missteps that could harm their reputation. The “Snowed In” candle controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity and the need for continuous improvement in product development and marketing practices.
