Introduced by Mattel in 1959, Barbie has been a cherished toy for millions of children around the world. To continue evolving with the times, Barbie now comes in a variety of body types and skin tones to better mirror the world’s diversity. In a major move towards inclusivity, Mattel has launched its first-ever blind Barbie doll, complete with braille packaging that features the word “Barbie” in braille.
In collaboration with the American Foundation for the Blind (AFB), Mattel has meticulously designed this doll to represent those with blindness or low vision. The doll includes a red and white cane, functional sunglasses, and a distinctive eye gaze that reflects the characteristics of many blind individuals.
The doll is dressed in a pink satin T-shirt and a purple tulle skirt. It features loop fasteners on the back of the top for easy dressing and undressing, while the skirt has an elastic waistband.
Mattel tested the doll with blind and low-vision children to refine its design and ensure an enjoyable play experience for these kids.
“In partnership with AFB, Barbie proudly introduces the first Blind Barbie Fashionista doll, developed to authentically represent blind and low-vision individuals. This doll features an upward and outward eye gaze, sunglasses, and a cane with a marshmallow tip. Textured fabrics enhance the sensory experience, making fashion elements more accessible with easy-to-open Braille packaging and elbow articulation for comfortable cane use, facilitating accessibility to show that we are all Barbie,” the company stated in an Instagram post.
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Eric Bridges, CEO and President of AFB, commended the collaboration, saying, “It was an honor to collaborate with Barbie on the development of the blind Barbie doll.”
He added, “By increasing representation and promoting awareness about the experiences of blind individuals and those with low vision, our shared goal is to inspire boundless opportunities for everyone, ultimately leading to a world of greater accessibility and inclusion.”
Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie, noted, “We recognize that Barbie is much more than just a doll; she represents self-expression and can create a sense of belonging.”
In 2023, Barbie also introduced its first doll with Down syndrome in partnership with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) to enhance inclusivity. The doll’s attire and accessories were thoughtfully designed to reflect some physical traits of individuals with Down syndrome.
