Barbie Introduces Real Female Heroes to Celebrate International Women’s Day

International Women’s Day Barbie

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Barbie has released a collectible line of 19 dolls that represent some of today’s most influential women, as well as pioneering heroines from throughout history. The Inspirational Women collection features inspiring women from our past who had a powerful impact on the feminist movement. The second half of the new release is part of the brand’s growing collection of Shero dolls, which represent modern women who have changed perceptions of females in their fields of work.

Ever since her debut in 1959, Barbie has evoked critical attention. She’s no ordinary doll; as a cultural icon and an artifact of the feminine form, she’s considered a role model for the children that play with her. Today, the makers of Barbie are no longer standing for the blonde, slim, and unrealistic representation of females; instead, they’re embracing real women. The brand says, “Barbie is committed to shining a light on empowering role models past and present in an effort to inspire more girls.”

From a survey of 8,000 mothers from around the world, Mattel—the maker of Barbie—discovered that 85% said they are concerned about the kind of role models their daughters are exposed to. In response, Barbie has released three Inspiring Women dolls, including Mexican artist and activist Frida Kahlo; Amelia Earhart, the first ever female pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean; and pioneering mathematician, Katherine Johnson. The collection was “designed to inspire young girls to explore their own limitless potential while learning about the incredible women who helped pave the way for them.”

Barbie’s Shero program began in 2015, with the aim to represent female role models in their true likeness. The latest editions include snowboarding champion Chloe Kim, female filmmaker Patty Jenkins, world-renowned chef Hélène Darroze, and many more groundbreaking women. Senior Vice President of Barbie, Lisa McKnight explains, “As a brand that inspires the limitless potential in girls, Barbie will be honoring its largest line up of role models timed to International Women’s Day because we know that you can’t be what you can't see. Girls have always been able to play out different roles and careers with Barbie and we are thrilled to shine a light on real life role models to remind them that they can be anything.”

Find out more about the latest role model Barbies, and shop your favorite doll via their website.

In celebration of International Women’s Day, Barbie is releasing a collectible line of 19 dolls representing some of today’s most influential and pioneering women.

International Women’s Day Barbie

International Women’s Day Barbie

The Inspiring Women collection includes Mexican artist and activist Frida Kahlo…

International Women’s Day Barbie

International Women’s Day Barbie

The first ever female pilot to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, Amelia Earhart…

International Women’s Day Barbie

International Women’s Day Barbie

… and pioneering mathematician, Katherine Johnson.

International Women’s Day Barbie

International Women’s Day Barbie

The brand’s growing collection of Shero dolls represent modern women who have broken boundaries in their fields of work.

International Women’s Day Barbie

Barbie: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube
h/t: [Hello Giggles]

All images via Barbie/ Mattel.

Related Articles:

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15+ Color Photos of Frida Kahlo That Capture Her Iconic Spirit

New Evidence Suggests Amelia Earhart Survived Her Plane Crash

5-Year-Old Girl Recreates Photos of Inspiring Women Every Day of Black History Month

Annie Leibovitz Captures Striking Portraits of Strong and Inspiring Women

Emma Taggart

Emma Taggart is a Contributing Writer at My Modern Met. Originally from Northern Ireland, she is an artist now based in Berlin. After graduating with a BA in Fashion and Textile Design in 2013, Emma decided to combine her love of art with her passion for writing. Emma has contributed to various art and culture publications, with an aim to promote and share the work of inspiring modern creatives. While she writes every day, she’s also devoted to her own creative outlet—Emma hand-draws illustrations and is currently learning 2D animation.
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