By betting on inclusion, the Barbie doll will earn new versions with hearing aids, prosthetics and wheelchairs. The novelty is part of the Fashionista 2022 line, which enters a new phase at Mattel, in which it is betting on an initiative for toys with more diversity.
In addition, the Ken doll also won a version with vitiligo. One of the faces who participated in this action is the bizarre actress Rose Ayling-Ellis, known for the role of Frankie Lewis, in the British series “EastEnders”.
“It’s so important that children can see themselves represented in the toys they play with,” said the actress who won her Barbie.
“When I was little, I designed the hearing aids on my Barbie dolls to make them look like me, so I’m really happy that Mattel is releasing more dolls that encourage kids to celebrate and embrace their differences.”
According to Mattel’s executive vice president Lisa McKnight, the new versions of the Barbie doll seek to encourage reflection on the “diversity that children see in the world.”
Action is important not only for identification, but also for encouraging others to play with dolls that do not look like them, helping to “understand and celebrate the importance of inclusion”.
Mattel also consulted with experts in their fields on the new Barbie dolls to accurately portray Fashionistas hearing aids. Educational speech therapist Jen Richardson was one of them. “I am very happy that my young patients see and play with a doll that looks like them,” she said.
Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
