Barbie, the most famous doll in the world and responsible for the cinematic phenomenon of 2023, continues to reinvent herself. Different cultures, different professions, different personalities. This time, and to mark Barbie’s 65th birthday, Mattel decided honor Queen Camilla of the United Kingdom and other inspiring figures with your own dolls.
Dressed in a replica of the elegant outfit worn by the Queen during an event at Buckingham Palace last Tuesday – a blue Fiona Clare dress, a black Amanda Wakeley cape and black Eliot Zed boots – the doll is a faithful replica of Camilla. This Mattel initiative recognizes the queen’s achievements, but also highlights the work she does at the Woman of the World (WOW) foundation, a charitable institution dedicated to analyzing and helping to overcome the obstacles faced by women around the world.
However, public reception was not entirely positive. Many users left comments on social media expressing their displeasure with this representation, stating “Name a girl who asked for this”, “Wait…. They made a Barbie Camilla but NEVER made a Diana?!?” and even “This is the worst thing to happen to Barbie since Midge.”
Photograph: @Mattel
This is not the first time that royalty has been honored by Barbie. On the occasion of Queen Elizabeth II’s 96th birthday and Platinum Jubilee, a special Barbie was created inspired by one of his most iconic looks.
Photograph: @Mattel
The line celebrating Barbie’s 65th birthday includes a host of other dolls inspired by notable women from around the world, as part of an initiative to share stories of empowerment and celebrate female diversity. Names such as Viola Davis, Shania Twain, Kylie Minogue and Helen Mirren are among the personalities honored, highlighting their achievements and inspiring the next generation of women.
Photograph: @Mattel
In Portugalthe brand sought to recognize several public figures such as the actress Inês Castel-Brancothe presenter Iva Domiguesbut also Joana Schenker who received the first bodyboarder Barbie made in her image, the writer and journalist Isabel Stilwellpresenter and actress Raquel Stradathe entrepreneur Mariana Duarte Silva and the chef Anna Lins.
Since her emergence more than six decades ago, Barbie has been much more than just a doll; has become a symbol of progress and inclusion, guiding girls around the world to dream big and achieve their goals.
