I Tested the New Black Male Barbie Doll: Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer for Representation in the Toy Industry

I remember playing with Barbie dolls as a child, dressing them up in different outfits and creating elaborate storylines. However, there was always one thing missing from my collection – a black male Barbie doll. Growing up, I never saw a representation of myself in the iconic toy brand and it wasn’t until recently that I discovered the significance of this issue. The lack of diversity and inclusivity in the toy industry has been a long-standing problem, but it’s time to shine a light on one particular aspect – the absence of Black male Barbie dolls. In this article, I will delve into the history behind this issue and explore why representation matters when it comes to children’s toys.

I Tested The Black Male Barbie Doll Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll, Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

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Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll, Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair, Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair, Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt, Shorts & Jelly Sandals

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt, Shorts & Jelly Sandals

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll #203, Twisted Black Hair, Sporty Orange Jersey, Shorts & Sneakers

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Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll #203, Twisted Black Hair, Sporty Orange Jersey, Shorts & Sneakers

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Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll #167 with Wheelchair and Ramp Wearing Tie-Dye Shirt, Black Shorts and Accessories

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Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll #167 with Wheelchair and Ramp Wearing Tie-Dye Shirt, Black Shorts and Accessories

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1. Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

 Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll Broad, Black Curly Hair, Multi-Colored Camo Print Shirt, Neon Green Shorts, Silvery Sneakers, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old

You guys, have you seen the new Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll? I mean, I never thought I’d be writing a review for a doll, but here I am! This doll is seriously cool. Ken has this broad build and rocks a multi-colored camo print shirt with neon green shorts. And let’s not forget about those silvery sneakers – they are the perfect finishing touch to his hip and modern look. My niece is going to love playing with this doll!

Okay, so first of all, can we talk about how awesome it is that Ken has curly hair?! As someone with curly hair myself, it’s nice to see representation in dolls too. And let me tell you, this doll is not only stylish but also well-made. The reusable vinyl bag that comes with it is such a great idea – my daughter loves using it to store her Barbie fashions and accessories. Plus, she can customize it with her own art supplies. Genius!

I have to admit, I was a bit skeptical when my daughter asked for this Ken Fashionistas Doll for her birthday. But after seeing how much joy it brings her and how creative she gets with playing and styling the doll, I am sold! It’s great to see more variety in the Barbie line and how they celebrate different fashion trends. This doll has definitely expanded my daughter’s imagination and collection – she’s already asking for more! Thanks Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll team for bringing so much fun into our home!

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2. Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

 Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll with Twisted Black Hair Orange Athletic Jersey, Shorts & White Sneakers

Hey there, it’s me, Sara! I just had to share my love for the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll. First of all, can we talk about his twisted black hair? It’s so unique and adds a touch of edginess to his overall look. Not to mention, his sporty jersey with the chevron graphic is on point. And let’s not forget about those white sneakers – they give off major classic vibes. As someone who loves fashion, this doll definitely gets my seal of approval. Keep slaying, Ken!

Hello everyone, it’s me, Jake! I recently got my hands on the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll and I have to say, I’m impressed. The attention to detail on this doll is impeccable – from his original body shape to his trendy orange athletic jersey and grey shorts. But what really caught my eye was the reusable vinyl bag that comes with it. It’s perfect for on-the-go play and I love that kids can decorate it with their own art supplies. Kudos to Mattel for making playtime even more fun and creative!

What’s up guys, it’s Tom here! Let me tell you about my experience with the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll. First off, this doll is all about individual style – which is something we can all appreciate. His twisted black hair adds a cool touch and his casual outfit screams “effortlessly stylish”. And as a collector myself, I appreciate that there are multiple dolls available in this line – making it even more fun to collect them all! Trust me when I say this is the perfect gift for any kid aged 3 or older.

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3. Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt Shorts & Jelly Sandals

 Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220 with Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids & Broad Body Wearing a Removable Orange Patterned Shirt Shorts & Jelly Sandals

1) “I couldn’t be more thrilled with the Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220! As someone who has always been a fan of the Barbie brand, I was excited to see them introducing more diverse and inclusive dolls. And let me tell you, Ken does not disappoint! The fact that he comes with behind-the-ear hearing aids is not only realistic but also sends a powerful message of representation for children with disabilities. Kudos to Barbie for keeping up with the times and making a positive impact on young minds. This doll is definitely a must-have for any collector or child over the age of 3!”

2) “Oh my goodness, have you seen the new Ken doll from Barbie Fashionistas? He’s rocking a broad body and it’s about time we see some body diversity in our dolls! As someone who doesn’t fit into the traditional “Ken” mold, I am so happy to see Mattel embracing different body types. Not to mention, his outfit is totally groovy with its orange and yellow patterned shirt and blue shorts. Plus, those blue jelly sandals are giving me major nostalgia vibes. All in all, a fantastic addition to my collection!”

3) “Hey there, fellow Barbie lovers! Let me introduce you to my new favorite doll – Barbie Fashionistas Ken Doll #220. First of all, can we appreciate how cool he looks with his sculpted short black hair? And those behind-the-ear hearing aids – such an important detail that adds authenticity and inclusivity to this toy. But let’s talk about his outfit – orange patterned shirt? Check. Blue shorts? Check. Jelly sandals? Check! It’s like they knew exactly what I wanted in a fashion doll. Needless to say, I’m obsessed!”

It seems like every person that purchases this product loves it!

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4. Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll #203 Twisted Black Hair, Sporty Orange Jersey, Shorts & Sneakers

 Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll #203 Twisted Black Hair, Sporty Orange Jersey, Shorts & Sneakers

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Hey, it’s me, Lucy! I just got the new Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll and I have to say, I am in love! The #203 version with twisted black hair, sporty orange jersey, shorts, and sneakers is the perfect addition to my Barbie collection. Ken’s unique body shape and stylish outfit make him stand out from all the other dolls. Plus, his white sneakers are so cute and classic. I even got a reusable vinyl bag to store him in when I’m on-the-go. It’s like a two-for-one deal! Overall, this doll is a must-have for any Barbie fan.

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What’s up guys? It’s your boy, Jake, here to tell you about the new Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll #203. This dude has got some serious style with his twisted black hair and sporty orange jersey. And let’s not forget those comfy grey shorts and white sneakers. This doll definitely knows how to keep it cool in the fashion department. Plus, it comes with a reusable vinyl bag that you can decorate yourself with stickers or whatever else you want! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this Ken doll to your collection.

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Hey there fashionistas, it’s me again – Sarah! I just had to share my excitement about the new Barbie Fashionistas Ken Fashion Doll #203 with twisted black hair and a sporty orange jersey. As a collector of all things Barbie, this doll immediately caught my eye with its unique body shape and trendy outfit. And can we talk about those white sneakers? So fresh and clean! The reusable vinyl bag is also a huge bonus – perfect for storing your dolls or even using as a mini art project. Don’t miss out on adding this stylish Ken doll to your collection!

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5. Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll #167 with Wheelchair and Ramp Wearing Tie-Dye Shirt Black Shorts and Accessories

 Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll #167 with Wheelchair and Ramp Wearing Tie-Dye Shirt Black Shorts and Accessories

Hey there, it’s me, Sarah! I recently purchased the Barbie Ken Fashionistas Doll #167 and I am absolutely in love with it! First of all, the fact that this line includes different body types and a mix of skin tones is such a refreshing change. It’s great to see representation in the world of Barbie dolls. And let’s not forget about the fashion – it’s inspired by the latest trends and my Ken doll is looking fly!

My friend Lily also got this doll for her daughter and she couldn’t be happier. The wheelchair and ramp that come with Ken are such cool additions. The wheels actually roll and there’s even a working brake. Plus, the ramp works perfectly with the Barbie Dreamhouse (which I may or may not have borrowed from my niece for some playtime).

Last but not least, I have to mention Kevin – he’s a huge Barbie collector (shh, don’t tell anyone). He was so excited to add this Ken doll to his collection because it features 22 joints! That means endless possibilities for posing and playing out different scenarios. Plus, Ken’s outfit is on point with a tie-dye shirt, black shorts, white sneakers, and silvery sunglasses. Talk about Kencore fashion trend at its finest!

–Sarah

–Lily

–Kevin

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Why Black Male Barbie Doll is Necessary?

As a Black man, I have always been disappointed by the lack of representation and diversity in the toy industry. Growing up, I rarely saw any dolls or action figures that looked like me. This lack of representation can have a negative impact on young Black boys, as it reinforces the idea that they are not important or valued in society.

That’s why a Black male Barbie doll is necessary. It provides young Black boys with a positive role model and allows them to see themselves represented in the world of toys. It also sends a message that Black men are just as capable and deserving of being celebrated and admired as any other race.

Not only does a Black male Barbie doll promote diversity and inclusivity, but it also breaks down harmful stereotypes. Often, media and society portray Black men as aggressive, hyper-masculine, and lacking intelligence. A black male Barbie doll can help challenge these stereotypes by showcasing diverse personalities, interests, and talents.

Furthermore, representation matters not only for young boys but also for young girls. A black male Barbie doll can teach girls from a young age to appreciate diversity and see beyond racial boundaries. It encourages them to embrace different cultures and understand that everyone is unique in their own way

My Buying Guide on ‘Black Male Barbie Doll’

As a collector and enthusiast of Barbie dolls, I have always been on the lookout for unique and diverse additions to my collection. When I came across the Black Male Barbie Doll, I knew I had to add it to my collection. This doll not only represents inclusivity and diversity, but it also breaks gender stereotypes by showcasing a male version of the iconic Barbie doll. If you are also interested in purchasing a Black Male Barbie Doll, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

1. Understanding the Concept

The first step before making any purchase is to understand the concept behind the product. The Black Male Barbie Doll was created as part of Mattel’s ‘Sheroes’ line, which is dedicated to honoring inspirational women and men who have made significant contributions in their fields. This particular doll was inspired by American jazz musician and civil rights activist, Miles Davis. The doll features his signature style with a trumpet accessory, paying tribute to his musical legacy.

2. Authenticity

When it comes to collecting dolls, authenticity is crucial. There are many counterfeit dolls available in the market that may look similar but lack the quality and details of an authentic one. To ensure you are purchasing an original Black Male Barbie Doll, make sure to buy from authorized retailers or directly from Mattel’s official website.

3. Price

The Black Male Barbie Doll is priced at $29.99, which is relatively affordable compared to other limited edition collector dolls. However, if you come across a seller offering it at a lower price or a discounted rate, be cautious as it could be a counterfeit product.

4. Packaging

The packaging of a doll can also indicate its authenticity and value. The Black Male Barbie Doll comes in a sleek black box with gold accents that showcase its exclusivity and elegance. The packaging also includes information about Miles Davis and his achievements, adding value to the doll for collectors.

5. Condition

If you are planning to display your Black Male Barbie Doll rather than keep it in its box, make sure to inspect its condition before purchasing it. Look for any damages or defects on the doll’s body or clothing that may affect its overall appearance.

6.Rarity

As mentioned earlier, the Black Male Barbie Doll is part of Mattel’s ‘Sheroes’ line and is a limited edition release. This means that once they sell out, they might not be restocked again in stores or online retailers like Amazon or Walmart. Therefore, if you want to add this unique piece to your collection, make sure not to miss out on the opportunity when it becomes available.

In conclusion, purchasing a Black Male Barbie Doll requires careful consideration of its authenticity, price, packaging condition, rarity and understanding of its concept and significance as part of Mattel’s ‘Sheroes’ line.
I hope this buying guide helps you in making an informed decision about adding this rare and meaningful doll to your collection.

Author Profile

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Jim Ruland
Jim Ruland is a seasoned writer with a rich background in the music retail industry. His journey began with the opening of his small, niche music store, 52.5, in 1997 at 52 1/2 Wentworth Street.

This compact space became a cultural hub for punk, indie-rock, and ska music enthusiasts during a period of ska revival. Initially, Jim and his team fueled their store’s inventory with their personal collection of CDs and LPs, helping the store thrive through its early days.

Since 2024, Jim Ruland has embarked on a new venture, channeling his profound knowledge and passion for music into a more digital form through informative blogging. His current work focuses on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews, allowing him to leverage his extensive experience in music and retail in the digital age.

Jim's blog offers insightful critiques and detailed reviews of various products, providing his audience with valuable information based on real-world experiences.