Over a year ago, Mattel released a range of body-inclusive Barbie dolls that changed the way the world saw the iconic doll. Girls were thrilled that they could not only find a doll that looked more like them, but also one that didn’t set the unrealistic expectation that all of your adult life will be spent in heels (and that eventually your feet will just be shaped so that they fit into nothing but a heel).
As Barbie continued to grow… and shrink (after all, her collection included petite and tall dolls), her “other half,” Ken, remained the same. With blonde hair, blue eyes and abs that indicate he’s probably not down for a 2 a.m. pizza, Ken looked like the classic “all-American boy.” The only problem is, is that it's 2017… and we all know by now that there’s no one way to “look American.” Not all Barbies look the same, so they’re definitely not all going to want to date the same dude.
It was revealed on Good Morning America that the toy company finally heard Barbie’s pleas, and decided to make Ken cool again. Barbie’s long-time boyfriend will now be available in three different body types, seven different skin tones, and nine different hairstyles.
I love this photo. The wide range of Barbies look like they should be actors on a set of a new show about high school kids that everyone loves for being “so real.” Not everyone is at a supermodel’s height, with a size 00 waist and bleach blonde hair, and it's about time we stop giving children these unrealistic standards. While we generally focus on young girls when discussing Barbie and the harmful effects that she might have on self-esteem and body confidence, it's important to realize that boys are affected by this as well. Just as a girl might feel self-conscious about not attaining Barbie’s extreme proportions, a boy might feel the same way about not having Ken’s abs or physique.
These Ken dolls will come in a “slim” and “broad” build, as well as the classic build that still exists. We don't know yet what all the different hairstyles will include, except it has been confirmed that cornrows, as well as a man bun will both be included. You know that Barbie’s trying to stay with the times when their release a man-bun Ken. Regardless of what your opinions are about the hairstyle IRL, you have to admit that the doll is pretty cute.
“By continuing to expand our product line, we are redefining what a Barbie or Ken doll looks like to this generation," Lisa McKnight, Barbie senior vice president and general manager said. "Evolving Ken was a natural evolution for the brand and allows girls to further personalize the role they want him to play in Barbie’s world.” Lets just not forget that girls aren’t the only ones who can play with Barbie or Ken dolls!
Let's go Barbie!
