Mattel
Barbie Gets a Body Makeover! Mattel Debuts Tall, Petite and Curvy Models of the Doll
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Nearly 60 years since she first stepped out on the scene, Barbie is getting a brand new body—and proving in the process that one size doesn't actually fit all.
After years of demands for physical change in the iconic doll, Mattel has finally heeded the public's requests, announcing Thursday that Barbie will take on three new shapes for 2016 and beyond.
"Yes, some people will say we are late to the game," Evelyn Mazzocco, head of the Barbie brand, told TIME. "But changes at a huge corporation take time."
In addition to the standard physique, the doll will also come in a petite, taller, and curvier version. Gone are the days of unattainable proportions—the fuller model now boasts a less narrow waist, fuller hips and plumper calves while the tall and petite versions mirror young women's varying heights.
To match their newfound body shape diversity, the figurines also feature a wide range of hair textures and colors, skin tones and facial features, which were first introduced in 2015, to ensure every child can find some semblance of themselves in their doll.
While the release will undoubtedly fuel an entirely new conversation surrounding the dolls and their influence on body image and acceptance, the president of Mattel says it's a start regardless.
"Ultimately, haters are going to hate," Richard Dickson told the magazine. "We want to make sure the Barbie lovers love us more—and perhaps changing the people who are negative to neutral. That would be nice."
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