Mattel has added two new Barbies to their Fashionistas line! Both dolls are available now at many retailers for $10.99 (US).
Barbie Fashionistas 288 is the first ever blind Barbie and features 7 points of articulation. Mattel partnered with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB) to ensure that the blind Barbie doll accurately represents those with blindness and low vision. The doll includes a white and red cane with a marshmallow tip and sunglasses, as some blind or low-vision individuals use the lens for extra eye protection. She wears a satiny pink blouse and sparkly, ruffled skirt made with a fun-to-touch fabric! Strappy lavender heels add an extra note of style savviness to her sweet look. The brightly colored, high-contrast closures on the back of her top and on her skirt’s elastic waistband make it easier to dress Barbie doll! Barbie Fashionistas 229 is Barbie’s second doll with Down Syndrome. Mattel partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) and spoke with a focus group of Black individuals with Down syndrome to create this doll. The doll features physical characteristics of people with Down syndrome, including a longer torso, shorter frame, low muscle tone, and a single line on the doll’s palm. Additionally, the doll comes with pink eyeglasses, as some individuals with Down syndrome have vision impairments. Meaningful symbols are incorporated throughout her outfit, and the blue and yellow color palette represents Down syndrome awareness. The three arrows in some of the hearts on the print represent the third 21st chromosome that individuals with Down syndrome have, and they point outwards to represent rising up and moving forward.Dollect is not affiliated or sponsored by Mattel.
