Mattel is adding an autistic Barbie to its Barbie Fashionistas line, expanding the company’s long-running effort to reflect diversity and inclusion through its dolls.
Developed With Autism Advocates
The doll was created over more than 18 months in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network, with the goal of representing how some autistic people experience and interact with the world. Advocates emphasized that autism does not look one single way, making thoughtful design choices especially important.
Design Details Reflect Lived Experiences
The new Barbie features slightly averted eyes to reflect how some autistic people avoid direct eye contact, along with articulated elbows and wrists that acknowledge stimming behaviors. She wears an A-line dress chosen to minimize sensory discomfort, flat shoes for stability, and comes with accessories including a fidget spinner, noise-canceling headphones and a communication tablet.
Part of a Broader Inclusive Line
The autistic Barbie joins a Fashionistas collection that already includes dolls with Down syndrome, Type 1 diabetes, vitiligo, hearing aids, prosthetic limbs, and a wide range of body types and skin tones. Mattel also said the doll’s facial features were inspired by Indian backgrounds, highlighting an underrepresented segment of the autistic community.
Availability and Price
The doll is set to launch Monday at Mattel’s online store and Target locations for $11.87, with Walmart expected to begin carrying it in March.
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