Despite the importance of personal representation and its increasing relevance in our public and political discussions, we do not often examine issues of representation on the micro level. In 2016, Mattel has made the decision to now release Barbie dolls in three new body shapes, seven new skin tones, twenty-two eye colors and twenty-four hairstyles. How will consumer preferences dictate purchases of these new models? Will those playing with these new models of Barbie identify with body-types and aesthetics other than their own? How might new skin tones affect (or fail to initiate) conversations surrounding race and racial identity?

Further Reading:

Creativity, "Mattel's Barbie Is Now Curvier, Taller and Petite"

International Business Times, "New Barbie Dolls Released By Mattel; 2016 Collection Features 4 Body Types and 7 Skin Tones"

E!, "Will New Body Types Save Barbie? The Evolution of What Used to Be the World's Favorite Doll"

The Washington Post, "The two things that could keep Barbie's evolution from being the success it should be"