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Mattel partnered with the American Foundation for the Blind to ensure doll designs “accurately reflect the community they are designed to represent”
As of today, more kids than ever will be able to see and represent themselves through play with Barbie dolls. Mattel just announced two inclusive new additions to the Barbie Fashionistas line: a blind Barbie doll and a Black Barbie doll with Down syndrome.
“We recognize that Barbie is much more than just a doll; she represents self-expression and can create a sense of belonging,” Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls, said in a press release. “We proudly introduce a new blind Barbie doll and Black doll with Down syndrome to our Barbie Fashionistas line, reinforcing our commitment to creating products that represent global belonging and inclusivity in the doll aisle.”
In this article: Barbie 12.7″ Fashionista Doll Blindness, Barbie 13.25” Fashionista Doll with Down Syndrome and Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll with Wheelchair & Ramp
Barbie partnered with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) to make sure every detail was right for its newest doll, accurately depicting individuals with blindness or low vision. The new Barbie with Down syndrome isn’t the first, but previously, Mattel only offered a white doll that was created in partnership with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). The new doll further reflects the world kids see and gives them more inclusive and representative ways to play.
Mattel’s new Barbies: A blind Barbie and a Black Barbie with Down syndrome
Barbie 12.7″ Fashionista Doll Blindness
In partnership with AFB, Barbie included details and accessories for its first-ever blind doll meant to represent many individuals with blindness and low vision. She comes with a white and red cane with a marshmallow tip and sunglasses, and has articulated elbows for comfortable cane use during play. Her satiny blouse and ruffled skirt are tactile and include high-contrast closures and elastic to make outfit swaps easier. And her packaging is accessible, including “Barbie” in braille.
Barbie 13.25” Fashionista Doll with Down Syndrome
Barbie worked with NDSS on the details of the new doll with Down syndrome, which include a shorter frame, longer torso, rounder face, flat nasal bridge and other characteristics often associated with those with Down syndrome. The doll also has braided hair texture, one of the key features the Black Down syndrome community asked for.
More inclusive Fashionista Barbies
Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll with Wheelchair & Ramp
This Ken doll has 22 articulation points to make him easy to pose and play with. He comes with a wheelchair and a ramp that can attach to the Barbie Dreamhouse (sold separately).
Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Down Syndrome
The first Barbie with Down syndrome was designed alongside NDSS to celebrate this community.
Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Prosthetic Leg
This Ken doll has a prosthetic leg and a trendy outfit (including a Los Angeles jersey).
Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids
In addition to her stylish dress, booties and high ponytail, this Barbie wears behind-the-ear hearing aids (in pink to match her style).
Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Natural Black Hair, Plus Wheelchair & Ramp
This Barbie comes with a pink manual wheelchair and a ramp that can attach to the Barbie Dreamhouse to make it accessible for her.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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