2017 Fashionistas Barbie: A Modern Take on the Classic Doll

Barbie has been a beloved toy for generations of children, and in 2017, Mattel released a new line of dolls called Fashionistas. These dolls were designed to be more diverse and inclusive than previous versions of Barbie, with a range of skin tones, body types, and hair textures. The 2017 Fashionistas Barbie line was particularly notable for its emphasis on diversity and representation, and it quickly became a popular choice among children and collectors alike.

The Evolution of Barbie

Barbie was first introduced in 1959, and she quickly became a cultural icon. Over the years, Barbie has undergone many changes, both in terms of her appearance and her role in society. In the early days, Barbie was primarily marketed as a fashion doll, with an emphasis on her glamorous wardrobe and accessories. However, as society changed and women’s roles in society evolved, so too did Barbie.

In recent years, there has been a growing demand for more diverse and inclusive toys. Many parents and children have expressed frustration with the lack of representation in traditional toys, particularly when it comes to race, body type, and gender identity. In response to this demand, Mattel has made a concerted effort to make Barbie more inclusive and representative of all children.

The 2017 Fashionistas Line

The 2017 Fashionistas line was a major step forward for Barbie in terms of diversity and representation. The line featured dolls with a range of skin tones, body types, and hair textures. There were curvy dolls, petite dolls, and tall dolls, as well as dolls with different hair textures, including curly hair and afros. The line also included dolls with disabilities, such as a doll with a prosthetic leg.

One of the most notable features of the 2017 Fashionistas line was the emphasis on inclusivity. The dolls were designed to represent a wide range of ethnicities and cultures, with dolls featuring African, Asian, and Hispanic features. This was a major departure from previous versions of Barbie, which had been criticized for their lack of diversity.

The Impact of the 2017 Fashionistas Line

The 2017 Fashionistas line was a major success for Mattel, with the dolls selling out quickly in stores and online. The line was praised for its inclusivity and representation, with many parents and children expressing their appreciation for the diverse range of dolls.

The impact of the 2017 Fashionistas line goes beyond just sales figures, however. The line has been credited with helping to promote a more positive and inclusive image of beauty and femininity. By featuring dolls with a range of body types and skin tones, the line has helped to challenge traditional beauty standards and promote a more diverse and inclusive view of beauty.

The Future of Barbie

The success of the 2017 Fashionistas line has paved the way for even more diversity and inclusivity in future versions of Barbie. Mattel has continued to release new versions of Barbie that feature a range of skin tones, body types, and hair textures. In addition, the company has partnered with organizations such as Black Girls CODE to promote STEM education for girls and to encourage more girls of color to pursue careers in technology.

As society continues to evolve and become more diverse, it is likely that Barbie will continue to change and adapt to reflect these changes. The 2017 Fashionistas line was a major step forward for Barbie in terms of inclusivity and representation, but there is still work to be done. By continuing to listen to feedback from parents and children, and by working to promote a more positive and inclusive image of beauty and femininity, Barbie can continue to be a beloved toy for generations to come.

Conclusion

The 2017 Fashionistas Barbie line was a major step forward for Barbie in terms of diversity and inclusivity. The line featured dolls with a range of skin tones, body types, and hair textures, and it helped to promote a more positive and inclusive image of beauty and femininity. The success of the line has paved the way for even more diversity and inclusivity in future versions of Barbie, and it is likely that Barbie will continue to change and adapt to reflect the evolving needs and desires of children and parents.