After decades of criticism over Barbie’s body shape, Mattel has finally revealed several new body types with more realistic proportions. Curvy, petite, and tall versions of Barbie will now be sold alongside the classic doll. With her tiny waist, stick thin legs and petite frame, the Barbie doll has been accused of promoting an unhealthy body image for over five decades. But now, in her biggest update since 1959, it’s out with the skeletal frame and thigh gap, and in with the curvy hips and thighs.
The new 2016 Barbie Fashionistas collection includes 4 body types, 7 skin tones, 18 eye colors and 18 hairstyles. Richard Dickson, president and chief operating officer of Mattel, said: “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. 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.”
The new dolls will go into production this year, and will be available in the new skin tones that Mattel introduced a few years back. That’s an exceptional amount of choice for Barbie, who until recent times used to be the same skinny blonde dressed up in number of outfits or work uniforms. The curvy Barbie will have more rounded out hips, legs, stomach, and rear.
