Bath and Body Works Apologizes for Offensive Holiday Candle Design Resembling KKK Hoods

Bath and Body Works Apologizes for Offensive Holiday Candle Design Resembling KKK Hoods

After facing backlash for a holiday candle design that resembled Ku Klux Klan hoods, Bath and Body Works has issued an apology for the offensive imagery. The “Snowed In” candle, which featured a label designed to look like cut-paper snowflakes, sparked outrage on social media due to its resemblance to the white hoods worn by KKK members.

Social media users quickly dubbed the candle the “Klandle” and criticized the brand for releasing such a design, especially considering the historical significance of KKK hoods as a hate symbol. Many users pointed out that the design oversight could have been easily avoided, raising questions about the racial diversity within the brand’s decision-making team.

In response to the controversy, Bath and Body Works swiftly removed the candle design from its website and retail stores. A spokesperson for the company stated that the design was unintentional and emphasized their commitment to listening to feedback from customers and employees.

This is not the first time Bath and Body Works has faced criticism for its product packaging. In 2022, the brand was called out for adding traditional African Kente designs to existing scents in honor of Black History Month, with some users questioning the authenticity of the gesture.

Bath and Body Works has reportedly canceled pre-orders of the controversial “Snowed In” candle and is evaluating its design process to prevent similar incidents in the future. The brand’s response to the backlash highlights the importance of cultural sensitivity and diversity in product development.