“Unlike other Fashionista dolls, the blind Barbie doll includes elbow articulations to ensure comfortable cane use,” the news release said.
Additionally, her eyes are “facing slightly up and out to accurately reflect the sometimes-distinct eye gaze of a blind individual.”
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Blind Barbie comes dressed in a brightly colored pink top and purple tulle skirt, something Mattel said was developed through testing with children who were blind and had low vision.
“With their guidance, Barbie designed the doll’s fashion to include a satiny pink blouse with a textured ruffle skirt for tactile interest,” the company said.
Blind Barbie’s eyes were designed to resemble those of someone with blindness, and her elbow joints allow for the doll to hold a cane in an authentic manner. (Mattel / Fox News)
“There is also a brightly colored high-contrast hook and loop fasteners for closure on the back of her top, as well as an elastic waistband on her skirt to make swapping Barbie’s outfit easier.”
The blind Barbie also has accessible packaging for children who are blind or have low vision.
“Barbie” is written in braille on the doll’s box, and the box was designed to be easier to open for someone with no or low vision.
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“Our packaging team went back to the drawing board and came up with a new design featuring a tab to pull and open on the back of box,” the company said. “When AFB received the updated package for testing, they said it made all the difference.”
“Having this doll launched alongside the new Barbie doll with blindness marks another important step in expanding representation for the disability community.”
