Barbie Gets A Long Overdue Makeover With New Body Types
The legendary doll of our childhood has always had a special place in our hearts. For most girls, she was THE doll we coveted on birthdays and special occasions, and her impossibly good looks, long and lean body, and lush hair were ideals we aspired to when we grew up.
However, for as long as we can remember, she’s also been in the eye of a storm for her makers for portraying an unrealistic ideal of a woman’s body and proportions. And with the past year having been the year of expressing one’s individuality regardless of one’s size, the spotlight has very clearly been on the fact that women come in all shapes and sizes and there’s no such thing as one size fits all. It is clear that people no longer believe in a singular definition of beauty. And the iconic doll is changing to reflect that. It may have been over 50 years in the coming, but some much-needed change is here and we need to celebrate that.
Mattel has just released a new set of Barbie dolls in three new body types, including Curvy, Tall and Petite. But the changes don’t stop there: She also comes in seven different skin tones, 22 eye colours, 24 hair styles, and feet built for either heels or flats. How amazingly inclusive is that for a doll that for over 50 years has been a prime example of the ideal Caucasian beauty? While Mattel will still continue to sell their old Barbie dolls, this new diverse range is a step in the right direction to reflect a broader view of beauty. As Mattel’s senior VP and global general manager Evelyn Mazzocco said in a press release, “We’re excited to literally be changing the face of the brand — these new dolls represent a line that is more reflective of the world girls see around them. The variety in body type, skin tones, and style allows girls to find a doll that speaks to them.”
Here’s hoping a new generation of young girls will grow up learning and reacting to a more inclusive idea of beauty and the healthy self-esteem that comes with it!
You can buy the new Barbie dolls here.
A #BTS look at what inspired us and the team that made it possible. https://t.co/JDeqzI59nX #TheDollEvolves #Barbie https://t.co/CmWHMcBOGf — Barbie (@Barbie) January 28, 2016
We proudly add three new body types to our line. Meet the new dolls. Learn more at Barbie.com. #TheDollEvolves #Barbie A photo posted by Barbie (@barbie) on
