Barbie has been a beloved icon for generations, inspiring girls to dream big and imagine endless possibilities. Over the years, Barbie has evolved to reflect changing times and societal norms. In 2016, Mattel, the company behind Barbie, introduced the Fashionistas line, featuring dolls with different body types, skin tones, and hair textures. The line was a huge success, and in 2017, Mattel expanded the Fashionistas line even further, introducing even more diversity and inclusivity. In this article, we will explore the Barbie 2017 Fashionistas line and its impact on the toy industry.
Body Types
One of the most significant changes in the Barbie 2017 Fashionistas line is the introduction of three new body types: tall, curvy, and petite. For years, Barbie had been criticized for promoting an unrealistic body image that could negatively impact young girls’ self-esteem. The new body types were a step towards addressing this issue and promoting body positivity. The curvy Barbie, in particular, was a groundbreaking addition as it challenged traditional beauty standards and celebrated different body shapes.
The new body types were not just a cosmetic change; they also came with new outfits designed to fit each body type’s unique proportions. This attention to detail was a welcome change as it added to the dolls’ realism and made them more relatable to young girls.
Skin Tones
Another significant change in the Barbie 2017 Fashionistas line was the introduction of seven new skin tones. The new skin tones ranged from light to dark, representing a broader range of ethnicities and cultures. This change was a crucial step towards promoting diversity and inclusivity in the toy industry.
The new skin tones were not just a cosmetic change; they also came with different facial features and hairstyles, adding to the dolls’ authenticity. The attention to detail was impressive, with each doll’s makeup and accessories carefully chosen to complement their skin tone.
Hair Textures
In addition to the new body types and skin tones, the Barbie 2017 Fashionistas line also introduced new hair textures. The new textures included curly, wavy, and straight hair, representing a broader range of hair types. This change was significant as it celebrated different hair textures and promoted inclusivity.
The new hair textures were not just a cosmetic change; they also came with different hairstyles and hair colors, adding to the dolls’ authenticity. The attention to detail was impressive, with each doll’s hairstyle carefully chosen to complement their overall look.
Clothing and Accessories
The Barbie 2017 Fashionistas line also featured new clothing and accessories designed to reflect different styles and personalities. The new outfits ranged from casual to formal, representing a broader range of fashion choices. This change was significant as it celebrated individuality and promoted self-expression.
The new clothing and accessories were not just a cosmetic change; they also came with different body types in mind, ensuring that each outfit fit each doll’s unique proportions. The attention to detail was impressive, with each outfit carefully chosen to complement each doll’s personality and style.
Conclusion
The Barbie 2017 Fashionistas line was a groundbreaking addition to the toy industry, promoting diversity and inclusivity in a way that had never been seen before. The new body types, skin tones, hair textures, clothing, and accessories celebrated individuality and promoted self-expression. The attention to detail was impressive, with each doll carefully crafted to reflect different styles, personalities, and cultures. The Barbie 2017 Fashionistas line was a significant step towards addressing issues of body image and promoting self-esteem in young girls. Mattel’s commitment to diversity and inclusivity has set a new standard for the toy industry, and we can only hope that other companies will follow suit.
