Bath & Body Works, known for its popular seasonal products and holiday-scented candles, was recently involved in an unexpected dispute. The firm, known for its festive designs, received a reaction over one of its new winter-themed candles.
The candle, titled “Snowed In,” was released as part of the brand’s winter collection. At first sight, the design appeared innocent enough, featuring a paper snowflake, a traditional seasonal symbol.
However, once purchasers took a closer look, several had concerns about the design. The snowflake’s design, particularly the two holes at the center of its spindles, drew undesired attention from keen social media users.
Many others said that the design was disturbingly similar to Ku Klux Klan hoods, a hate symbol linked with violence and terror against Black people.
One Instagram user responded, “I have never seen a snowflake that looks like that,” highlighting the troubling images.
The reaction immediately spread throughout social media sites, with individuals expressing their surprise that such a design could be released.
One user on X (formerly Twitter) questioned, “How did they not see that coming? Sometimes companies really need to double-check their designs before dropping them.”
As the discourse progressed, some dubbed the device a “klandle” because of its perceived resemblance to Klan hoods.
Critics noted how delicate cultural icons may easily spark controversy if not thoroughly reviewed before they hit the shops.
Not everyone, however, thought the candle’s design was objectionable. Some social media users believed the criticism was overdone, labeling the scenario an exaggerated reaction.
“There’s nothing racist about this,” one person said. “People are looking for reasons to race bait.” Another person said, “It’s just a poorly executed design – it shouldn’t have been approved.”
Despite the varied viewpoints, the discussion grew more heated, with others pointing to deeper issues. Some critics speculated that a lack of diversity inside corporations could lead to such errors in product design.
“Your lack of diversity in the workplace shows exactly why the candle got approval. No one Black, Hispanic works there? “Smh,” another person commented.
As the online discourse grew more heated, it appeared like Bath & Body Works might be forced to take action. Many people were perplexed as to how such a design could have been approved.
Finally, Bath & Body Works removed the divisive candle from its shelves and website. The corporation admitted the error in a statement sent to numerous media sites.
“At Bath & Body Works, we are committed to listening to our teams and customers and committed to fixing any mistakes we make—even those that are unintentional like this one,” the business claimed. “We apologize to anyone we’ve offended and are swiftly working to have this item removed.”
While the candle has already been pulled from sale, the event has spurred debate about the value of cultural sensitivity in design.
The company’s prompt response and apology may have alleviated some of the fury, but it is unclear how Bath & Body Works would handle similar concerns in the future.
As the organization analyzes its internal processes, this debate serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural symbols—as well as the need for improved design awareness.
Featured Image Credit: (Reddit/@r/bathandbodyworks)
