Barbie gets real with new body types for dolls

EL SEGUNDO, Calif. -- Mattel is making some big changes to one of its most popular toys by altering its iconic Barbie line to reflect different body sizes and ethnic diversity.

The Barbie dolls will get three new body types – tall, curvy and petite – and a variety of skin tones, hair styles and outfits. 

"For more than 55 years, Barbie has been a global, cultural icon and a source of inspiration and imagination to millions of girls around the world," said Richard Dickson, President and Chief Operating Officer of Mattel. "Barbie reflects the world girls see around them. Her ability to evolve and grow with the times, while staying true to her spirit, is central to why Barbie is the number one fashion doll in the world."

The new 2016 Barbie Fashionistas doll line includes four body types (the original and three new bodies), seven skin tones, 22 eye colors, 24 hairstyles and countless on-trend fashions and accessories. Adding more diversity into the line continues the journey that Barbie started in 2015 when the brand added 23 dolls with new skin tones, hair colors and, most notably, a flat foot.

"Barbie has always given girls choices – from her 180 careers, to inspirational roles, to her countless fashions and accessories," said Evelyn Mazzocco, Senior Vice President and Global General Manager Barbie. "We are excited to literally be changing the face of the brand – these new dolls represent a line that is more reflective of the world girls see around them – the variety in body type, skin tones and style allows girls to find a doll that speaks to them."

The new dolls can be viewed on Barbie.com and will be available to order on January 28, 2016 on Shop.Mattel.com in the U.S. The collection will be available starting in spring 2016 at major toy retailers worldwide.