Barbie just got a makeover and is now a whole lot more diverse
Iconic doll character Barbie is getting a full-on diversity makeover for 2016.
The doll has often been criticised for her body shape and unattainable measurement proportions.
However Barbie’s new looks which definitely more accurately reflect a wider variety of body types, includes “tall, curvy and petite”.
The new designs also feature a variety of skin tones, eye colours and hair styles.
The new range will feature 33 new dolls, 30 hair colours, 24 hairstyles, 22 eye colours, 14 face shapes, 7 skin tones and 4 body shapes.
The body shapes will be original, plus tall, curvy and petite.
Mattel made the announcement in a statement today, and has been welcomed by most, however some criticised the company for continuing to gender the toys, addressing “girls” as the specific target market.
“We are 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,” Mattel executive Evelyn Mazzocco said in a statement.
Barbie also features on a TIME magazine cover, with the tagline: “Now can we stop talking about my body?”
The move was welcomed by those on Twitter who said the dolls will now back up what they tell their children about body diversity.
Others asked whether Ken might get a ‘dadbod’ makeover next.
The new dolls will go on sale in Spring 2016, but toymaker Mattel warned, much like real life: “Not all clothes will fit all dolls”.
