You don't have to be like anyone else to be loved or seen as beautiful.

Barbie has long been a symbol of diversity and equality, and Mattel's creation of celebrity versions represents a strong shift for the brand.

Barbie doll versions that resemble celebrities have left a strong impression on the public.

Today, Barbie versions based on famous models or influential figures in their respective fields are not simply toys or collectibles, but also a celebration of diverse beauty, equality, the right to see oneself in role models, and progress in social awareness.

The ideal image of a Barbie doll.

Ashley Graham, the American model famous for the "body positivity" movement, was one of the first role models Mattel included in its special Barbie line.

A doll version inspired by her was released in 2016 with a fuller figure, and notably without the "thigh gap" that many once considered the beauty standard.

Ashley Graham doll became an icon of a "revolution" in body image perception, asserting that beauty lies not only in being thin but also in self-confidence and self-love.

Lisa McKnight, CEO of Barbie, shared: "Ashley Graham is a pioneer and an inspiration to all women and girls, helping them see their own beauty."

We hope our partnership with Ashley will continue to create even more positive impacts.”

Another example is Canadian model Winnie Harlow, who has vitiligo but has turned that difference into a defining characteristic that has made her famous. In the past, the fashion industry used to eliminate or hide physical imperfections.

But today, it is precisely these differences that become unique values. The appearance of dolls with vitiligo not only raises social awareness about this disease, but also sends a humane message to children: no one needs to be like anyone else to be loved or considered beautiful.

Model Ashley Graham beams alongside her Barbie doll version - Photo: Getty Images

Vitiligo is no longer a barrier for both Winnie Harlow and Mattel, as they confidently transform it into a unique beauty that transcends limitations - Photo: Funelo

Renowned Asian-American designer Anna Sui was also chosen by Mattel to be part of Barbie. As a successful Asian-American woman in the United States, Anna Sui has become an inspiration for those who dream of pursuing fashion but are concerned about cultural boundaries.

Barbie Anna Sui is dressed in a signature design that embodies the bohemian spirit and distinctive artistic style of Anna Sui.

To mark this launch, the Barbie Dream Gap project will partner with Sui to help Asian children and immigrant children from low-income families through educational programs and community activities aimed at a more equitable future.

The Anna Sui Barbie version sports a distinctive design with a strong bohemian spirit - Photo: Anna Sui

Being unconventional, limitless, and not conforming to "perfect" beauty standards is a plus point that helps Mattel leave a deep impression on the public - Photo: Mattel

The message is "respect for differences".

Realistic Barbie dolls are not just a marketing strategy, but also a step with profound socio-cultural significance. For centuries, women have been constrained by rigid stereotypes: they must be slim, fair-skinned, and "perfect."

Those stereotypes once caused generations of women to feel insecure and chase unrealistic standards. Mattel's creation of dolls with diverse body shapes, skin tones, and stories has helped break down those barriers.

Now, every girl, whether tall or short, thin or curvy, fair-skinned or dark-skinned, can find herself reflected in some version of Barbie.

Mattel has not only received public support but has also achieved many significant successes.

The “Barbie Signature” product line has been lauded as one of the most humane innovations in toy history. Barbie sales have also increased significantly, demonstrating that the public is not just buying toys, but also supporting a progressive message.

Perhaps, in the eyes of children gazing at Barbie dolls of different skin tones, body shapes, and messages, they see confidence, self-esteem, and a love for diverse beauty. It's as if Barbie is once again redefining beauty in the modern world.

TU THANH

Source: https://tuoitre.vn/khong-can-phai-giong-ai-de-duoc-yeu-thuong-hay-duoc-xem-la-dep-20251026152415631.htm