And not only Barbie undergoes a metamorphosis, Ken also looks slightly different than you expect from him. A copy of him is being launched with vitiligo, a skin condition that causes the loss of pigment cells.
“Hugely inspiring”
Mattel worked with several experts to make the Barbie dolls as realistic as possible. For example, the American ear doctor Jen Richardson was used for the Barbie with the hearing aid. “I am extremely honored to work with Barbie to create an accurate doll with a behind-the-ear hearing aid. It is immensely inspiring to my young patients with hearing loss that they will be able to play with a doll that resembles them.”
Important for children
The physique of the dolls is also a lot more realistic. For example, some are smaller in stature, less muscular or more slender. “Barbie firmly believes in the power of representation. As the most diverse doll line on the market, we are committed to continuing to launch dolls with different skin tones, body types and disabilities,” said Lisa McKnight, Head of Barbie Dolls. “Children need to see that diversity in their play. It encourages them to understand and embrace the importance of inclusiveness.”
More diversity
Toy company Mattel first announced a few years ago that they wanted to go for more diversity with their Barbie dolls. The Barbie Fashionistas line now consists of about 176 dolls with 9 different body types, 35 skin tones and 94 hairstyles.
Source: HLN