Mattel’s Barbie gets a full-body makeover

To better fit in with today’s consumer, Mattel has evolved its iconic line of Barbie dolls to include more diverse features. The response so far has been mixed.

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The body types of humans are exceptionally diverse. For one of the world’s most popular toys, however, showing this diversity was never a strong suit.

That’s why Mattel, the makers of Barbie, will release a new line of the doll that are petite, tall and curvy. This change comes 57 years after Barbie’s introduction to fans.

In addition to body type, the dolls will be sold with a variety of skin and eye colors.

You’re probably thinking that Mattel made the change after countless requests to modernize Barbie. You’d be wrong. Like so many major rebranding moves that are dressed up in positive clothing, this was done because Barbie’s sales were slipping. RELATED: FREE guide: How to Be a Brand Journalist – Tell compelling stories and take your story directly to your audience.

According to The Chicago Tribune, Barbie’s makeover is Mattel’s response to an increase in consumer’s seeking dolls with more sass and personality.

The update is also related to huge movement toward gender-neutral toys and electronics.

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