NEW YORK—At 57, Barbie is getting a major makeover.
The iconic plastic doll, whose small waist and long legs have been criticized for creating unrealistic expectations for girls, will soon be sold with three new bodies—curvy, tall, and petite. Barbie will also be more diverse, coming in seven skin tones, 22 eye colors, and 24 hairstyles.
Mattel Inc. has been searching for ways to recharge sales of Barbie, which fell 4 percent in the most recent quarter as “want lists” from girls increasingly include iPads and other things. The company hopes more children will be able to relate to the new dolls.
The body transformations have been in the works for two years, said Mattel spokeswoman Michelle Chidoni on Jan. 28.
This photo provided by Mattel shows a group of new Barbie dolls introduced in January 2016. Mattel, the maker of the famous plastic doll, said it will start selling Barbies in three new body types: tall, curvy, and petite. She'll also come in seven skin tones, 22 eye colors, and 24 hairstyles. Mattel via AP
