Why you’re going to want Mattel’s inclusive new Barbie Fashionistas line
Image: Instagram user barbie
Barbie makeovers are nothing new but this one is helping to fight the stigma around disabilities.
Barbie dolls have been every kid's best friend for nearly 60 years. Inspiring imagination and bringing a heap of fun to playtime, it's no wonder the toy has remained absolutely iconic for so long. But Barbie has also presented what some have seen as a big problem – she's too perfect.
With her tall stature, voluptuous curves and teeny tiny waist, Barbie represents an ideal that is unrealistic for most of us mere mortals. Which is why Mattel have now committed to creating a much more naturalistic reflection of the world we live in with the new Barbie line.
The Barbie Fashionistas collection has been around for some time, but new models have been added over the years to evolve Barbie into a reflection of the kids that play with her. Now, just in time for Barbie's 60th birthday, Mattel have just released the first image of the latest line of dolls via Barbie's Instagram.
The new collection includes a Barbie in a wheelchair and another with a removable prosthetic leg and guys, there are tears in my eyes. Already the post is filled with comments praising the latest additions and asking, "Where was this when I was a kid?" which goes to prove just how much these dolls are going to mean to the next generation.
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Mattel collaborated with Jordan Reeves, a 13-year-old disability activist who was born without a left forearm, when designing the Barbie with the prosthetic limb. They also worked together with UCLA Mattel Children's Hospital to design the wheelchair, which the company has said is one of the most requested accessories from Barbie fans.
The new Barbie Fashionistas line also includes dolls of varying heights, body types and skin tones and will soon be adding a diverse Ken range to the mix.
When and where can you shop the line?
Whilst some of the dolls from the range are already available, the Barbies with disabilities will be available to shop in June. You'll be able to shop the collection from usual Barbie stockists like Target Australia and Myer.
In the meantime, you can shop another childhood favourite from Mattel. The company announced the re-release of Polly Pocket late last year, celebrating the pint-size doll's 30th anniversary.
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