Barbie introduces the first-ever doll with Down Syndrome

Representation matters, especially when it comes to impressionable and vulnerable children. This week, Mattel launched a new Barbie doll to its “Barbie Fashionistas” lineup—and its the first-ever doll with Down Syndrome.

“As the most diverse doll line on the market, Barbie plays an important role in a child’s early experiences, and we are dedicated to doing our part to counter social stigma through play,” said Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Global Head of Barbie & Dolls, Mattel. “Our goal is to enable all children to see themselves in Barbie, while also encouraging children to play with dolls who do not look like themselves. Doll play outside of a child’s own lived experience can teach understanding and build a greater sense of empathy, leading to a more accepting world. We are proud to introduce a Barbie doll with Down syndrome to better reflect the world around us and further our commitment to celebrating inclusion through play.”  

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Mattel worked to ensure the Barbie with Down Syndrome was accurately representative of a person with Down Syndrome by working with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). NDSS empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing resources, driving policy change, engaging with local communities.

The expertise of NDSS helped inform the design process from start to finish, including the doll’s sculpt, clothing, accessories and packaging. The close partnership ensured the Barbie team celebrated individuals with Down syndrome through a doll that would immediately connect with the community. 

“It was an honor working with Barbie on the Barbie doll with Down syndrome,” said Kandi Pickard, NDSS President and CEO. “This means so much for our community, who for the first time, can play with a Barbie doll that looks like them. This Barbie serves as a reminder that we should never underestimate the power of representation. It is a huge step forward for inclusion and a moment that we are celebrating.”

The doll’s face and body were created to be illustrative of women with Down Syndrome and their physical characteristics. There was a lot of thought put into her outfit as well—the doll’s dress pattern features butterflies and yellow and blue colors, which are symbols and colors associated with Down syndrome awareness. The doll’s pink pendant necklace with three upward chevrons represents the three copies of the 21^st chromosome, which is the genetic material that causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome.

Related: The grief and gift of mothering a child with Down syndrome

 She also comes with pink ankle and foot orthotics to match her outfit. According to NDSS, some children with Down Syndrome use orthotics to support their feet and ankles.

The 2023 Fashionistas dolls, including the Barbie doll with Down syndrome, are available for purchase from major retailers for $10.99.