Bath & Body Works found itself at the center of a social media storm after releasing a candle design that many consumers felt resembled a hood. The candle, part of their winter collection, featured a snowflake design that, when viewed from certain angles, bore an uncanny resemblance to the infamous hoods of a well-known group. The issue began when an image of the candle was shared on social media, quickly going viral. Users on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) dubbed the candle a “klandle,” pointing out the unfortunate similarity. The design, which was intended to be a festive snowflake, featured two holes on either side of its spindles, which critics argued looked like eye holes a hood. In response to the backlash, Bath & Body Works swiftly issued an apology and removed the candle from their stores and website. The company stated, "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. We apologize to anyone

we’ve offended and are swiftly working to have this item removed and are evaluating our process going forward". The public reaction was mixed. While many criticized the company for the oversight, others defended Bath & Body Works, suggesting that the resemblance was unintentional and that the company took appropriate steps to address the issue. Some social media users highlighted the importance of diversity in marketing teams to prevent such incidents in the future. This incident serves as a reminder of the sensitivity required in product design and marketing. It underscores the importance of diverse perspectives in the creative process to avoid cultural missteps. Bath & Body Works’ prompt response and commitment to improving their processes demonstrate their dedication to their customers and their willingness to learn from mistakes. While the incident was unfortunate, it provides an opportunity for growth and reflection for both Bath & Body Works and the wider retail industry. By prioritizing inclusivity and cultural awareness, companies can better serve their diverse customer base and avoid similar controversies in the future.