Growing up I wasn't allowed to play with white dolls for my mom didn't want me to idolize their beauty. So instead I had Huggie Bean and other dolls that she made where the hair was yarn to even look like locks. I saw what she meant witnessing self hatred comments that girls around my way would spit at each other, "Well at least my hair ain't nappy" and "You so Black you look like burnt toast" before returning to combing their white Barbie doll's hair for another three hours.
Well does Mattel after all these years finally address the problem? Hmmmm, you be the judge...
Mattel announce
d today their introduction of new Black Barbie dolls. The new dolls have fuller lips, a wider nose, more distinct cheekbones and curlier hair. Deemed the “So In Style” line, or S.I.S, the line features Kara, Trichelle and Grace who are three best friends in tune with fashion, fun and music.
Each doll features its own unique personality and style and
reflects one of three various skin tones. The line also features a mentoring theme and each doll comes with her little sister. The big and little doll is set to inspire mentoring in the young girls who play with them.
link to other photos and full article on hiphopwired
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They are gorgeous! I give them a "A" for effort
ReplyDeleteI agree. Some people mentioned to me that since the Barbie's did not have natural hair Mattel is still reinforcing European beauty stereotypes. But the most popular Barbie has long flowing blonde hair and that doesn't represent all white people. I think this is a step in the right direction.
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