Barbie has long been a beloved toy for children around the globe. While traditionally characterized by her tall, slender figure and blonde hair, Mattel is evolving to embrace a broader representation of beauty. The latest release of Barbie dolls reflects this shift, showcasing a delightful range of sizes and skin tones.
Honoring Remarkable Historical Figures
Among these new offerings are the “Inspiring Women” Barbies, which honor three remarkable historical figures: Katherine Johnson, Amelia Earhart, and Frida Kahlo. Katherine Johnson, a pioneer featured in the acclaimed film Hidden Figures, was one of NASA’s first black female mathematicians, playing a crucial role in calculating the trajectory for Apollo 11’s moon landing. Amelia Earhart made history as the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic, while Frida Kahlo, a celebrated Mexican artist and feminist icon, is renowned for her striking and impactful artwork.
Availability and Educational Value
These dolls are available for preorder on Mattel’s website, although their official release date has yet to be announced. Given the overwhelming interest, a gift set including all three dolls is already on back order, so it’s wise to act quickly. Each doll comes with an educational booklet detailing the achievements of these inspirational women—truly a collection every child should have.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Lisa McKnight, Mattel’s senior vice president, stated, “As a brand that inspires the limitless potential in girls, Barbie will be honoring its largest lineup of role models timed to International Women’s Day.”