
Bath and Body Works faces backlash over a candle design that some say resembles Ku Klux Klan hoods.
At a Glance
- Bath and Body Works apologizes for a candle design resembling KKK hoods.
- The “Snowed In” candle is being removed from stores.
- The design intended to depict a snowflake sparked criticism on social media.
- The company is reviewing its design process to prevent future issues.
Apology and Removal
Bath and Body Works issued an apology after significant backlash regarding a candle design from their winter collection. The holiday candle, named “Snowed In,” faced criticism for its resemblance to visual elements associated with the Ku Klux Klan despite intending to symbolize a paper snowflake. As a result, the company quickly removed the product from both their stores and online platforms while expressing deep regret for the oversight.
The company is committed to receiving feedback and making necessary adjustments to avoid similar situations in the future. They emphasized that the resemblance was unintentional and are undertaking measures to review their design approval processes.
CONTROVERSIAL CANDLE: Bath & Body Works apologized for its Snowed In candle adorned with a snowflake image that some people compared to KKK hoods. https://t.co/DYWHcW7Iul
— KDKA (@KDKA) October 15, 2024
Cultural Impact and Reaction
Criticism swiftly emerged on various social media platforms, including Reddit, where users established a thread titled “KKKKandles.” This space became a hub for discussions filled with both outrage and defense. Thousands debated whether it was a lapse in judgment or simply heightened sensitivity from the public. Some defended the design as simply a poorly executed snowflake, while others saw a connection to hate group imagery, intensifying the controversy.
The Ku Klux Klan’s imagery, depicting hooded figures, stands as a notorious symbol of hate and racism in the United States. The use of such symbolism in products is understandably problematic, given America’s complex history surrounding race and discrimination. This incident has prompted Bath and Body Works to reevaluate not only the design in question but also their entire design process.
Bath and Body Works Apologizes for Controversial Candle Design After Critics Compare It to Ku Klux Klan Hoods https://t.co/R33YGaS7F4
— People (@people) October 14, 2024
Looking Forward
In response to the uproar, Bath and Body Works is actively engaged in a thorough review of its internal processes. Their goal is to enhance their design vetting procedure to circumvent similar occurrences in the future. This is not the first time the company has faced backlash over product designs, having dealt with allegations of cultural appropriation in 2022. Back then, Bath and Body Works partnered with the National Urban League, donating significant financial resources to support initiatives against discrimination.
As this story develops, Bath and Body Works aims to move forward by ensuring that such oversights are thoroughly addressed, maintaining accountability and demonstrating a commitment to inclusive product design.
Sources
1. Bath & Body Works Sorry for Candle That Some Say Resembles KKK Hood