Bath & Body Works has found itself in hot water after a candle featuring a snowflake cutout design sparked controversy. Some online commenters have pointed out that the snowflake imagery, depicting a white-paper cutout with arms that end in pointed tips, each with two circular holes, bears an unsettling resemblance to Ku Klux Klan hoods. While the company maintains the imagery was unintentional, the candle has sparked widespread discussion on social media platforms like Reddit, with users highlighting the potential for the candlelight to shine through the holes in the snowflakes, further emphasizing the troubling resemblance. The controversy has forced Bath & Body Works to remove the candle from their shelves and apologize for any offense caused.
Accidental Imagery Sparks Backlash
Bath & Body Works, renowned for its festive and holiday-themed offerings, has encountered a public relations crisis with the release of their “Snowed In” candle. The three-wick candle, boasting a blend of “creamy buttermint, sweet musk and cozy vanilla,” quickly became a point of contention due to its seemingly innocuous snowflake design. However, many observers took to social media, primarily Reddit, to draw attention to the striking resemblance of the snowflake cutouts to the pointed hoods worn by members of the Ku Klux Klan, a white supremacist organization with a dark history of violence and racism. The candle’s design features white snowflakes with pointed tips, each with two circular holes, resembling eyeholes, further adding to the visual connection with the infamous KKK hoods.
“KKKKandles” and Online Outrage
The “Snowed In” candle, now fondly dubbed “KKKKandles” on Reddit, has stirred a storm of online debate, with users sharing their thoughts and observations. One prominent concern was the potential for candlelight shining through the holes in the snowflake cutouts when the candle is lit, creating an even more stark and eerie resemblance to the KKK hoods. This alarming aspect of the candle’s design amplified the controversy, contributing to widespread outrage and demands for immediate action.
Bath & Body Works Apologizes and Pulls the Candle
Recognizing the public outcry, Bath & Body Works promptly issued an apology, assuring their customers and the wider public that the imagery was entirely unintentional. The company, committed to upholding its values and fostering inclusivity, expressed deep regret for any offense caused by the candle’s design and promptly removed the product from its shelves.
Evaluating Processes and Moving Forward
Beyond offering an apology, Bath & Body Works is also undertaking an evaluation of its product development processes. This internal review aims to prevent similar incidents in the future, ensuring a more vigilant and sensitive approach to all product designs. Bath & Body Works intends to take meaningful steps to ensure its offerings do not unintentionally perpetuate harmful or offensive imagery.
Resellers Cashing In on the Controversy
Despite its removal from official channels, the controversial candle continues to be listed on reseller sites, attracting unexpected interest and inflated pricing. Notably, one eBay listing is demanding $350 for the “Snowed In” candle, while other resellers are seeking prices ranging from $75 to $175. The demand for the canceled candle serves as a reminder of the unexpected consequences and potential for profit in situations of controversy and cultural sensitivity.
Take Away Points
The Bath & Body Works candle controversy underscores the importance of careful consideration and cultural awareness in product design. While seemingly innocuous details can sometimes have unintended and far-reaching consequences, companies are urged to exercise due diligence and sensitivity in all aspects of their product development. The controversy highlights the significant role social media plays in amplifying issues and holding brands accountable for their actions, especially in the face of potentially harmful or insensitive imagery. It is important for companies to foster open dialogue and engage with consumers on sensitive matters to build trust and maintain a positive public image. Finally, the “Snowed In” candle’s continued availability on reseller sites underscores the unexpected profit opportunities generated by controversy, reminding brands of the crucial importance of proactively managing and resolving such issues.