It only took five decades, but Mattel has finally got the message — blonde, blue eyed and stick thinned Barbie is a bad role model for impressionable girls and boys.
In the biggest update since 1959, Barbie has received a desperately needed makeover marking a new era of diversity, reality and beauty. The skeletal frame, big bust and thigh gap is out, now it’s all about curvy hips and thighs.
Mattel, the creator of the toys, said the new range – which also boasts seven different skin tones – was designed to promote a healthy and realistic body image and would better reflect the diversity of those who play with the dolls.
Evelyn Mazzocco, senior vice-president and Barbie’s global general manager, said: “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. We believe we have a responsibility to girls and parents to reflect a broader view of beauty.”
The new Barbie dolls range from tall, short, curvy, slender and their skin colours range vastly too.
It’s been a long time coming, but this huge step is finally here and it might even change a generation of children for the better.
Via The Guardian
