Barbie Debuts First-Ever Doll With Down Syndrome

In its 64-year history, Barbie has unveiled the first-ever doll with down syndrome as part of the Barbie Fashionistas collection, the brand’s most inclusive line. It has previously launched dolls with hearing aids, vitiligo, prosthetic limbs and wheelchairs to allow more children to relate to and see themselves represented in their favourite dolls.

In addition to the Barbie Fashionista doll with Down Syndrome, other dolls that are in the pipeline for the year include a Fashionista doll with braces and a Ken Fashionista doll with a prosthetic leg, among others.

The new Barbie was created through a partnership between Mattel and the National Down Syndrome Society. The doll has a shorter frame, smaller ears with a rounder face, almond-shaped eyes and a flat nasal bridge. The doll’s palm even includes the single line, a characteristic associated with Down syndrome. The colours used for the doll’s dress are associated with Down syndrome awareness. The pink necklace on Barbie’s neck has three upward chevrons, representing the 21st chromosome that is characteristic of this syndrome, as well as pink ankle foot orthoses.