Barbie has taken a lot of flak about her imagine over the years. For decades the fashion doll, manufactured by Mattel, has been accused of promoting harmful body image to girls. Over the years, Mattel has made some alterations and attempted to diversify its Barbie line.
Now, the company is taking another step.
Barbie is expanding its line to include three new body types and seven new skin tones. Barbies will now come in curvy, tall, and petite.
“For more than 55 years, Barbie has been a global, cultural icon and a source of inspiration and imagination to millions of girls around the world,” said Richard Dickson, President and Chief Operating Officer of Mattel. “Barbie reflects the world girls see around them. Her ability to evolve and grow with the times, while staying true to her spirit, is central to why Barbie is the number one fashion doll in the world.”
We’re celebrating The Evolution of #Barbie w/ an evening of storytelling and conversation. Follow #TheDollEvolves. pic.twitter.com/DkCSsBlYc5
— Barbie (@Barbie) January 29, 2016
“Barbie has always given girls choices – from her 180 careers, to inspirational roles, to her countless fashions and accessories,” said Evelyn Mazzocco, Senior Vice President and Global General Manager Barbie. “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.”
So Proud of Barbie for creating the new diverse barbies! So many different skin tones and body sizes #Barbie pic.twitter.com/AJpNDu2MkG
— Diaries Of Lea ✨ (@diariesoflea) January 28, 2016
What do you think about the new curvy Barbie?