How American Politics Influence Popularity of Certain Barbie Styles in the UK

With the influence of globalization and cultural appreciation it seems that mainstream norms have expanded. For instance, in the UK there has been a lack of market for racially influenced Barbie dolls for the past 30 years. However, now we’re happy to report that is no longer the case.

Mattel will release a variety of black and mixed-race Barbie dolls that will reflect and appreciate the varieties of shapes and sizes of normal women. This evolution of Barbie is aimed to meet the demand for relevance in today’s global earth.

This isn’t the first time a black Barbie doll has been launched in the UK, but it will be the first that appears more ‘real’ with curly hair, fuller lips and more distinctive cheek bones.’ The first doll introduced was back in 1967 and was just a Barbie replica, but painted a different color. This new line of dolls has been designed to showcase more diversity in size, shape and roles.

Though, some might think this is just a doll, many see this a positive sign for lasting change. As a way to recognize and appreciate differences reflected in the toys that we support as a society. The influence we all have with our buying power is reflective of what companies provide to the market place.

Some beauty experts speculate the positive influence of Michelle Obama is helping pave the way for beauty, strength and the acceptance of a more culturally diverse world. The acceptance of these dolls in the UK has been highly influenced by the role model we now have in Mrs. Obama, causing us to re-examine previously held beliefs that might‘ve hindered the success of previous dolls.

The arrival in Britain was welcomed by Irene Shelley, editor of Black Beauty & Hair magazine, who said: “This is obviously part of the ‘Michelle Obama effect’ because there has been a lot of interest in her and the girls and that will make retailers rethink what they can sell.”