The first Black Barbie doll was created in 1980 by Kitty Black Perkins, who was then the principal designer for Mattel. The doll was named “Black Barbie” and was released alongside a Latina Barbie. The dolls were a major milestone for the Barbie brand, as they were the first to represent diversity in the line.
Perkins was born in Spartanburg, South Carolina, in 1948. She grew up in a segregated society and played with white dolls that were gifted to her by her mother’s employers. As she got older, Perkins became aware of the lack of representation for Black girls in the toy industry. She decided to become a toy designer so that she could create dolls that looked like her and other Black girls.
Perkins joined Mattel in 1973 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1979, she was tasked with creating an outfit for the first-ever Black Barbie. Perkins designed a bold, red bodysuit with a wrap-and-snap disco skirt, a modernist necklace, and hoop and dangle earrings. The doll was a hit with consumers, and it helped to pave the way for more diverse representation in the Barbie line.
In the years since the release of Black Barbie, Mattel has continued to expand its range of diverse dolls. Today, there are Barbie dolls representing a wide range of skin tones, hair textures, body types, and occupations. The company has also released dolls inspired by real-life role models, such as Misty Copeland, Serena Williams, and Malala Yousafzai.
The Barbie brand has come a long way in terms of diversity and representation. The first Black Barbie doll was a major milestone, and it helped to change the way that toys are marketed to children. Today, there are more diverse dolls available than ever before, and this is a positive step towards a more inclusive world.
How the World of Barbie Has Evolved in 2023
The world of Barbie has evolved significantly in the 43 years since the release of Black Barbie. In addition to the introduction of more diverse dolls, Mattel has also made changes to the Barbie brand’s marketing and messaging.
In the past, Barbie was often marketed as a fashion doll for young girls. However, in recent years, Mattel has shifted its focus to Barbie’s role as a role model for girls. The company now emphasizes Barbie’s achievements in a variety of fields, such as science, sports, and business.
Mattel has also made changes to the Barbie brand’s packaging. In the past, Barbie’s packaging often featured images of the doll in unrealistic poses and settings. However, Mattel has now updated its packaging to reflect a more realistic and inclusive image of Barbie.
The evolution of the Barbie brand is a reflection of the changing times. As society has become more diverse and inclusive, so too has the Barbie brand. Today, Barbie is a role model for girls of all backgrounds, and she inspires them to reach for their dreams.
The first Black Barbie doll was a major milestone for the Barbie brand, and it helped to pave the way for more diverse representation in the toy industry. Today, there are more diverse dolls available than ever before, and this is a positive step towards a more inclusive world. The evolution of the Barbie brand is a reflection of the changing times, and it is clear that the brand is committed to representing a wide range of girls.Issa Rae’s casting in the upcoming Barbie film is a welcome and exciting development. Rae is a talented actress, writer, and producer who has consistently created groundbreaking and inclusive content. Her involvement in the film is a sign that Barbie is committed to promoting diversity and representation. I am looking forward to seeing Rae bring her unique voice and perspective to the role.Issa Rae’s casting in the upcoming Barbie film is a welcome and exciting development. Rae is a talented actress, writer, and producer who has consistently created groundbreaking and inclusive content. Her involvement in the film is a sign that Barbie is committed to promoting diversity and representation. I am looking forward to seeing Rae bring her unique voice and perspective to the role.
Issa Rae’s casting in the upcoming Barbie film is a welcome and exciting development. Rae is a talented actress, writer, and producer who has consistently created groundbreaking and inclusive content. Her involvement in the film is a sign that Barbie is committed to promoting diversity and representation. I am looking forward to seeing Rae bring her unique voice and perspective to the role.
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