Barbie announced its “Next Gen Ken” lineup Tuesday, revealing 15 new “diverse” Ken dolls with different body types, skin tones and hairstyles.
The new Ken dolls released as part of Barbie’s Fashionistas line will be available in three different body types — broad, slim and original — and can sport a number of different looks, including a man bun cornrows and freckles, according to Mattel’s website.
“In 2016, Barbie introduced three new Barbie body types – tall, curvy and petite – along with new skin tones, eye colors, hairstyles and countless on-trend fashions and accessories,” the company said in a press release. “The Barbie brand has always reflected the times, so modernizing Ken is the next step in the brand’s evolution to offer more diverse products.”
Barbie executive Lisa McKnight said the company wants to redefine what Barbie and Ken look like to today’s kids.
“Evolving Ken was a natural evolution for the brand and allows girls to further personalize the role they want him to play in Barbie’s world,” she said in a statement.
In addition to the 15 new Ken dolls, the brand is introducing 25 diverse Barbie dolls to be added to the more than 100 Fashionistas.
Mattel, based in California, said some of the new dolls will be available for sale on its website Tuesday. The rest will be on store shelves by the holidays, The Associated Press reported.
• Jessica Chasmar can be reached at jchasmar@washingtontimes.com.
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