Recently Mattel has released new and improved Barbies.  The dolls include new hair colors/styles, body shapes/sizes, different shoe sizes, and different ethnicities.  The toy company is gaining the spotlight due to these new additions to the original Barbie. Mattel’s stock has gone up fourteen percent, which suggests the public may be liking the new Barbies.  Over the years critics have shamed Mattel for the unrealistic look of the original Barbie: body proportions, and the message that comes with the Barbie doll.

I think with the new line of Barbies called the “Fashionista” line, speaks volumes of how far society has come.  People are much more open to diversity and are demanding that toys reflect how the average woman might look.  I think the new dolls will give a better message to little girls who don’t look like the original Barbie.

Some individuals have even taken to social media to demonstrate diversity in Barbies.  One example is Haneefa Adam, a 24 year old Muslim woman who has created an Instagram account dedicated to a hijab wearing barbie. After never seeing a barbie sporting the hijab, like she does, the 24 year old got inspired. She began posting a few weeks ago and already has 19,400 followers and counting. You can check out her account on Instagram @hijarbie.

Looking back on my childhood Barbies were always a part of my playtime regime.  I think it’s an amazing thing that girls may get a better sense of empowerment with a doll that they can tailor make to be just like them.  From the hairstyle or the way they dress the new Barbies are definitely something I think will stick around.