Mattel has launched a new black Barbie doll line in an attempt to make the doll's appearance a more realistic representation of a black woman.
The "So In Style" dolls were made to celebrate the diversity of black girls and send a positive message, according to a Barbie Media press release.
Although the new doll's aesthetics have roused some controversy, there are those who agree the new line is a positive change for the Barbie Industry.
The dolls feature fuller lips, a wider nose, more distinctive cheek bones and curlier hair than the previous "Christie" doll.
"The 'So In Style' line features 'Grace,' 'Kara' and 'Trichelle' dolls," according to the Barbie Media press release. "Each of the dolls features its own unique personality and style and reflects on three varying skin tones."
While the new "So In Style" line has pleased many, others think the doll could have been more authentic in its representation of the physical appearance of these Barbies.
The main complaint of the new doll line is the hair.
"I think the changes are a step in the right direction," said Susanna Morris, professor in English. "However, I think it is very telling that all of the dolls have straight hair. This speaks to the ways in which Barbie adheres to, rather than challenges, normative standards of beauty, and that is very problematic."
While the new line of dolls has curlier hair than the previous doll, some say it still does not imitate the texture of hair most black women come by naturally.
A group of black students in an English composition class unanimously agreed the new doll more accurately represents black women than the former version.
Both male and female students agreed the dolls were attractive and fairly accurate in their representation of women.
The girls said the hair didn't matter to them and that the body of every Barbie is unattainable.
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