Bath and Body Works recently faced backlash over a winter-themed candle labeled “Snowed In,” which many online commenters compared to a Ku Klux Klan hood due to its stylized paper snowflake design. The KKK is considered one of the oldest and most infamous hate groups in the United States, and the Anti-Defamation League categorizes the KKK hood as a hate symbol. As a result of the controversy, the candle was removed from Bath and Body Works’ website and retail locations, with the company stating that the design was unintentional. They apologized to anyone who was offended and promised to swiftly remove the item while evaluating their design process for the future.
Commenters on social media platforms like Reddit criticized the candle’s design, dubbing it a “klandle” or a “Klan Krismas Kandle.” Some individuals who attempted to purchase the candle after the controversy erupted reported that their orders were canceled. Despite its removal from Bath and Body Works stores, the canceled candle has appeared on eBay, with one listing attempting to sell it for $350. The company did not provide a response when asked for comment on the situation, but it is clear that the design choice struck a nerve with many consumers.
Candles are a significant part of Bath and Body Works’ product line, which has expanded from soaps and lotions over the years. Each holiday season, the retailer releases a collection of holiday-scented candles, which make up nearly 40% of the company’s annual sales, according to analysts. With candles being a popular item for gift-giving and home decor, it is crucial for Bath and Body Works to carefully consider their designs to avoid unintentional associations or offensive imagery. The controversy surrounding the “Snowed In” candle serves as a reminder of the importance of being mindful of design choices, especially when they can be interpreted in a negative or harmful manner.
The response from Bath and Body Works to the backlash was swift, with the company issuing a statement apologizing for any offense caused by the candle design. They emphasized their commitment to listening to feedback from customers and employees, as well as their dedication to rectifying any mistakes made, even if unintentional. By acknowledging the controversy and taking immediate action to remove the item from their stores, Bath and Body Works demonstrated a willingness to address concerns and learn from the situation. Moving forward, they plan to evaluate their design process to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The incident highlights the power of social media in holding companies accountable for their products and designs, as online commenters played a significant role in drawing attention to the controversial candle. Platforms like Reddit allowed people to voice their criticisms and concerns, leading to widespread discussion and ultimately prompting Bath and Body Works to take action. The candle’s association with the KKK sparked outrage and raised questions about the company’s design approval process. While the candle may have been intended as a harmless winter-themed decoration, its resemblance to a hate group symbol underscores the need for businesses to be cautious and considerate in their product designs to avoid inadvertently causing offense.
In conclusion, Bath and Body Works’ decision to withdraw the “Snowed In” candle following accusations of resembling a Ku Klux Klan hood showcases the importance of sensitivity and awareness in design choices. The controversy surrounding the candle serves as a cautionary tale for companies to thoroughly vet their products to avoid unintentional associations or offensive imagery. By swiftly addressing the situation and pledging to review their design process moving forward, Bath and Body Works took steps to demonstrate accountability and a commitment to listening to their customers. The incident underscores the impact of social media in shaping public perception and holding businesses accountable for their actions, serving as a reminder of the need for careful consideration in product design and marketing.
