Mattel Archives – Page 2 of 2

Mattel debuts 17 new Barbie Global Role Models dolls and 3 Inspiring Women dolls to celebrate International Women’s Day

March 6, 2018

Barbie Gobal Role Models — Barbie Global Role Models include: Vicky Martin Berrocal, Xiaotong Guan, Bindi Irwin, Sara Gama, Chloe Kim, Martyna Wojciechowska, Nicola Adams OBE, Yuan Yuan Tan, Patty Jenkins, Hélène Darroze, Hui Ruoqi, and Leyla Piedayesh (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

The following is a press release from Mattel:

Ahead of International Women’s Day, Barbie is honoring 17 historical and modern-day role models from around the world. These women come from diverse backgrounds and fields and are breaking boundaries to inspire the next generation of girls. With 81 percent* of moms globally worried about the type of role models their daughters are exposed to, Barbie is igniting a conversation around the importance of positive role models.

“As a brand that inspires the limitless potential in girls, Barbie will be honoring its largest line up of role models timed to International Women’s Day because we know that you can’t be what you can’t see,” said Lisa McKnight, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Barbie. “Girls have always been able to play out different roles and careers with Barbie and we are thrilled to shine a light on real life role models to remind them that they can be anything.”

Sparking a global conversation leading up to International Women’s Day, the Barbie brand is:

Honoring 14 modern-day role models – Through its Shero program, Barbie honors women who have broken boundaries in their fields and have been an inspiration to the next generation of girls with a one-of-a-kind doll made in their likeness. Global honorees announced today include:
- Patty Jenkins, Filmmaker, USA – The first woman in history to helm a film with a budget in excess of 100 million dollars for WONDER WOMAN, which broke the record for Biggest Grossing Live-Action Film Directed by a Woman – domestic and worldwide
- Chloe Kim, Snowboarding Champion, USA – A first generation Asian-American snowboarding champion and the youngest woman to win a gold medal in snowboarding at the 2018 winter games at age 17
- Bindi Irwin, Conservationist, Australia – International award-winning wildlife conservationist and celebrity who inherited her father’s passion for wildlife and is dedicated to inspiring the next generation to make a difference in the world
- Nicola Adams, Boxing Champion, UK – Two-time gold medalist who is Great Britain’s most successful female boxer of all time and is the only female boxer in the history of the sport to have held all four amateur titles
- Çağla Kubat, Windsurfer, Turkey – Champion windsurfer and member of the Fenerbahçe sailing and windsurfing team who founded her own windsurfing school for young surfers
- Hélène Darroze, World-Renowned Chef, France – Inspirational fourth-generation French chef with three restaurants and two Michelin stars
- Hui Ruoqi, Volleyball Champion, China – Fifteenth Captain of the Chinese women’s national volleyball team who also won gold in the 2016 summer games
- Leyla Piedayesh, Designer and Entrepreneur, Germany – Iranian immigrant and founder of fashion label lala Berlin that incorporates urban-cool and elegant-chic elements in its high-quality knitwear
- Lorena Ochoa, Professional Golfer, Mexico – Athlete, mother, entrepreneur and unbreakable promoter of golf in Mexico
- Martyna Wojciechowska, Journalist, Poland – TV presenter, magazine editor, author, director and the second Polish woman to conquer the Seven Summits
- Sara Gama, Soccer Player, Italy – Captain of Juventus and Italian national soccer team, member of the Federal Board and President of Commission for the development of women’s soccer
- Xiaotong Guan, Actress and Philanthropist, China – Ambassador for “World Life Day,” a joint campaign by the United Nations Environment Program, International Fund for Animal Welfare and The Nature Conservancy, and known as the “Nation’s Daughter” in China
- Yuan Tan, Prima Ballerina, China – Prima ballerina and principal dancer at the San Francisco Ballet and guest principal dancer at the Hong Kong Ballet
- Vicky Martin Berrocal, Entrepreneur and Fashion Designer, Spain – Leads the creative direction of Victoria company with collections that include festive costumes, flamenco dresses, gowns, handbags and jewelry

Introducing Inspiring Women™ doll line series – These historical dolls come with educational information about the contributions each woman made to society and their respective fields. The first three dolls in this series are:
- Amelia Earhart – First female aviator to fly across the Atlantic Ocean, courageously challenging the conventions of the times by breaking and setting aviation records
- Frida Kahlo – Artist who gained recognition for her unique style and perspective, and became a celebrated artist, activist and symbol of strength
- Katherine Johnson – Pioneer in mathematics who broke through barriers of race and gender, and joined a pool of women hired by NASA to work as ‘human computers’ to calculate the trajectory of the first American-manned flight into space

Asking fans to share #MoreRoleModels – Barbie is sparking a global call to action by asking fans to tag and share the female role models that inspire them, using #MoreRoleModels on social media.

Barbie has previously honored women, including Ibtihaj Muhammad, Misty Copeland, Ava DuVernay, Eva Chen and Ashley Graham. Through the program, which started in 2015, Sheroes are given the Barbie brand’s highest honor, a one-of-a-kind doll made in their likeness, in celebration of their roles in expanding the possibilities for girls everywhere.

Visit www.Barbie.com/rolemodels for more information on the global role models and program. Follow @barbie and @barbiestyle on social media to join in the conversation using #MoreRoleModels.

* This online survey of 8,000 moms of daughters aged 0-10 years old, was commissioned by Mattel and conducted by market research company OnePoll, in accordance with the Market Research Society’s code of conduct.

About Mattel
Mattel is a global learning, development and play company that inspires the next generation of kids to shape a brighter tomorrow. Through our portfolio of iconic consumer brands, including American Girl®, Barbie®, Fisher-Price®, Hot Wheels® and Thomas & Friends™, we create systems of play, content and experiences that help kids unlock their full potential. Mattel also creates inspiring and innovative products in collaboration with leading entertainment and technology companies as well as other partners. With a global workforce of approximately 32,000 people, Mattel operates in 40 countries and territories and sells products in more than 150 nations. Visit us online at www.mattel.com.

Mattel debuts movie-themed Barbies for ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ and ‘Tomb Raider’

February 19, 2018

by Jennifer Smith

Mattel has unveiled new Barbie dolls based on two fantasy adventure movies releasing in 2018: “A Wrinkle in Time” and “Tomb Raider.”

“A Wrinkle in Time” Barbie dolls based on the characters in the movie played by Mindy Kaling, Oprah Winfrey and Reese Witherspoon (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

For “A Wrinkle in Time,” the three new Barbie dolls are inspired by the characters of Mrs. Who (played by Mindy Kaling), Mrs. Which (played by Oprah Winfrey) and Mrs. Whatsit (played by Reese Witherspoon). For “Tomb Raider,” the new Barbie doll is based on the character of Lara Croft (played by Alicia Vikander).

“A Wrinkle in Time” is the live-action film adaption of the classic children’s book written by Madeleine L’Engle. The movie, directed by Ava DuVernay, will be released by Walt Disney Pictures on March 9, 2018.

The “Wrinkle in Time” Barbie dolls go on sale for at a suggested retail price of about $50 each on the following dates:

Mrs. Whatsit: March 16, 2018
Mrs. Which: March 19, 2018
Mrs. Who: April 1, 2018

Tomb Raider Barbie, based on the Lara Croft character played by Alicia Vikander (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

The movie “Tomb Raider,” directed by Roar Uthaug, is based on the video game of the same title. Warner Bros. Pictures will release the movie on March 16, 2018. Angelina Jolie previously starred as Lara Croft in the 2001 movie “Lara Croft Tom Raider” and its 2003 sequel “Lara Croft Tome Raider: Cradle of Life.”

The “Tomb Raider” Barbie was unveiled at the 2018 New York Toy Fair. The doll goes on sale on March 9, 2018, at a suggested retail price of $29.99.

Barbie honors Ibtihaj Muhammad with one-of-a-kind doll at Glamour Women of the Year Summit

November 13, 2017

Ibtihaj Muhammad and her Barbie doll (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

The following is a press release from Mattel:

Mattel honors Ibtihaj Muhammad, the first American Olympian to compete while wearing a hijab, as a Barbie Shero by gifting her a one-of-a-kind doll in her likeness. The doll was unveiled at the Glamour Women of the Year LIVE Summit, an annual event that gives young women the opportunity to hear from select past and present Women of the Year honorees, as well as other influential leaders from a variety of fields, in Brooklyn, NY.

Muhammad is the latest honoree as part of Barbie Shero program that recognizes women who break boundaries to inspire the next generation of girls. Muhammad was presented this doll by last year’s Shero, body activist and model, Ashley Graham.

“Through playing with Barbie, I was able to imagine and dream about who I could become,” said Ibtihaj Muhammad. “I love that my relationship with Barbie has come full circle, and now I have my own doll wearing a hijab that the next generation of girls can use to play out their own dreams.”

One of TIME magazine’s “100 Most Influential People” of 2016, Muhammad not only breaks boundaries with her swordsmanship, but with the launch of her clothing line, Louella. Noticing a gap in the marketplace, Muhammad designs new fresh and vibrant looks for the modest fashion industry.

“Barbie is celebrating Ibtihaj not only for her accolades as an Olympian, but for embracing what makes her stand out,” said Sejal Shah Miller, Vice President of Global Marketing for Barbie. “Ibtihaj is an inspiration to countless girls who never saw themselves represented, and by honoring her story, we hope this doll reminds them that they can be and do anything.”

“Ibtihaj Muhammad has challenged every stereotype—which to me is the definition of a modern American woman,” said Glamour Editor-in-Chief Cindi Leive. “Last year, she was the first athlete from the U.S to compete in the Olympics wearing a hijab, and today we are thrilled to celebrate Ibtihaj as the first hijab-wearing Barbie. She will play a tremendous role in ensuring that girls of the future see themselves represented fully and beautifully in our culture.”

The doll will be available for purchase in 2018. For more information and images, visit www.Glamour.com/woty.

Christian Siriano debuts one-of-a-kind Barbie fashion collection celebrating body diversity

September 29, 2017

Christian Siriano and his exclusive Barbie fashion collection (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

The following is a press release from Mattel:

Christian Siriano, a top fashion designer known for advocating for body positivity, has partnered with the iconic doll to launch a one-of-a-kind collection showcasing red carpet glamour on the four different Barbie® body types found in the brand’s Fashionistas® line.

Four of the one-of-a-kind Barbie looks were inspired by red carpet moments Siriano designed for celebrities, which showcase the evolution of red carpet beauty. The final doll’s gown was inspired by the designer’s Resort 2018 collection to complete the diverse line-up. Siriano continues to challenge the fashion industry’s standards by being more inclusive—a shared value for the Barbie brand.

Christian Siriano’s exclusive Barbie fashion collection (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

“Barbie has always been a huge inspiration to me and I’m honored to be teaming up with this iconic brand,” said Christian Siriano. “It’s especially exciting to be designing an array of inclusive and diverse doll looks that can allow girls to see themselves better represented when they play. It was incredible to recreate iconic red carpet moments and dress my latest muse, Barbie, in a new look from my Resort 2018 collection.”

Over the past three years, the Barbie brand has infused a variety of skin tones, body types, hair styles and fashions into its line—making it the most diverse doll line on the market. The brand is a better reflection of the girls who play with them, and culturally depicts a broader view of beauty currently seen on runways, red carpets, in magazines and with the rise of social media influencers.

“Barbie is a fashion icon—she’s been dressed by a multitude of designers over the years who have used her as a canvas to reflect beauty of the moment,” said Sejal Shah Miller, VP Global Marketing of Barbie. “We are thrilled that Christian is the next designer to be inspired by Barbie and is showcasing a diverse and inclusive view of red carpet looks.”

The Barbie Fashionistas segment continues to exceed expectations, as sales of the line see high double-digit growth globally. Diversity continues to roll out across brand content, marketing and product, including the Fantasy, Entertainment and Careers segments.

These dolls are not for sale.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zpKd6nkqTd8

Mattel And WWE launch girls product line

July 20, 2017

WWE Superstars Dolls (Photo courtesy of Mattel, Inc.)

The following is a press release from Mattel:

Mattel and WWE are launching a girls’ product line that features the first-ever fashion dolls of Nikki and Brie Bella, Sasha Banks, Natalya, Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, Alicia Fox and Eva Marie, to leverage the popularity of WWE’s female Superstars and give its sizable girl fan base a new way to connect with their favorite brands.

12″ fashion dolls that are articulated and come with multiple fashions inspired by Nikki and Brie Bella, Sasha Banks, Natalya, Charlotte Flair, Becky Lynch, Alicia Fox and Eva Marie.
Role Play items that include a WWE Women’s Championship title belt with authentic styling and sleek metallic medallions, in addition to fun accessories like a Bayley-inspired headband and Sasha Bank’s “Legit Boss” rings.
Action figures that have deluxe articulation and bold ring looks that include the Superstar’s iconic accessories.

This is the first time female WWE Superstars will have a fashion doll and role-playing line, in addition to the action figures inspired by their in-ring characters. The dolls will be available for preorder online only at Toysrus.com beginning Monday, July 24, and exclusively at Toys”R”Us® stores nationwide and Toysrus.com this September.

“The launch of the first-ever WWE girls’ product line is a significant moment in the evolution of not only our female Superstars, but our entire company,” said Stephanie McMahon, WWE Chief Brand Officer. “We are honored to partner with Mattel to provide kids with another way to connect with our incredible female performers who inspire confidence and strength.”

“At Mattel, we have a deep understanding of how girls play and are proud to be WWE’s partner in bringing the first ever female Superstar fashion doll line to fans, said Lori Pantel, SVP and GM for Girl’s Toy Box. “This line shows girls that they too can be a WWE Superstar and fits well within our portfolio of girl’s brands by offering unique doll aesthetics with empowering messages.”

The new WWE Superstars product line, which was revealed today at San Diego Comic-Con, offers fans an original way to play and includes the following:

Mattel launches Enchantimals franchise

July 18, 2017

Mattel's Enchantimals — Mattel’s Enchantimals (Photo courtesy of Mattel, Inc.)

The following is a press release from Mattel:

Mattel reveals a new brand franchise, Enchantimals™, a fantastical world celebrating the special bond between kids and animals, as pets are often a child’s very first bestie. Enchantimals joins the Mattel girl’s portfolio of well-known brands offering products and engaging storylines that ignite imaginative play.

Launching with 14 small dolls and 3 playsets, Enchantimals product inspires stories of friendship, empathy and compassion towards all living things. The characters and stories come to life through a variety of short-form YouTube content and 60-minute televised special this fall.

“At Mattel we are passionate about introducing properties that are both on-trend and purposeful,” said Lori Pantel, SVP and GM for Girl’s Toy Box, “We’re essentially bringing a popular animal aesthetic inspired by social media filters and marrying it with product and stories encouraging empathy and friendship.”

The Enchantimals dolls are loveable characters who share a special bond with their accompanying animal bestie. Each doll shares a ritual with her animal friend celebrating their unique traits and personalities.

Enchantimals product ranges from $8.99 – $34.99 rolling out to retailers nationwide this fall. Follow along on the Enchantimals journey on YouTube, Instagram and Facebook.

THE WORLD OF ENCHANTIMALS
The Enchantimals™ are a group of lovable girls (who are half animal) who have a special bond with their animal best friends. Each character is complete with her animal sidekick with whom they share unbreakable bond of friendship. These pairs of animal besties use their abilities and compassion to maintain balance, peace and harmony amongst all living things. Fans will have fun discovering new characters and collecting them all!

CORE CHARACTERS

Felicity Fox™ & Flick™: Felicity is quick, clever and completely curious about anything and everything. Felicity and Flick love to go exploring together, especially to places they have never been to before.
Danessa Deer™ & Sprint™: Danessa is the shy and quiet type whose actions speak louder than her words. Danessa and Sprint’s favorite game is to race each other through the forest to see who is the fastest.
Sage Skunk™ & Caper™: Sage has a mind as quick as her feet and she’s an ace problem solver. When Sage and Caper aren’t working on a new song together, they’re usually planning some elaborately clever prank.
Bree Bunny™ & Twist™: Bree is always up to her ears in creative do-it-yourself projects. Bree and Twist are like twin fountains of bubbling creativity. No one has more fun making something together than they do.
Patter Peacock™ & Flap™: Patter is proud of her fashionable feathers, and she loves to encourage her friends to be proud too. Patter may not have the best singing voice, but when she teams up with Flap their songs are always belted out in perfect harmony.

Mattel’s Barbie brand launches most diverse Ken dolls so far

June 20, 2017

Dolls in the Barbie Fashionistas collection (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

The following is a press release from Mattel:

Barbie announced the expansion of its Fashionistas line with 15 new and diverse Ken dolls, featuring three body types—slim, broad and original—and a variety of skin tones, eye colors, hairstyles and modern fashion looks. The new Ken dolls join an expanded Barbie Fashionistas line, making it the most diverse fashion doll line in the marketplace.

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 Barbie brand has always reflected the times, so modernizing Ken is the next step in the brand’s evolution to offer more diverse products.

Dolls in the 2017 Mattel’s Barbie Fashionista Collection (Photo courtesy of Mattel)

“By continuing to expand our product line, we are redefining what a Barbie or Ken doll looks like to this generation,” said Lisa McKnight, Senior Vice President and General Manager, Barbie. “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.”

The line includes 15 new Ken dolls with three body types, seven skin tones, eight hair colors, nine hairstyles and modernized fashions, ranging from casual business attire to athletic wear. The brand is also introducing 25 additional diverse Barbie dolls. These dolls join the 100+ diverse looks launched in the Barbie Fashionistas line in the last three years.

The Barbie Fashionistas segment continues to exceed expectations, as sales of the line see high double-digit growth globally and was named “Doll of the Year” at the Toy Industry Association’s Annual T.O.T.Y. Awards. Diversity continues to roll out across brand content, marketing and product, including the Fantasy, Entertainment and Careers segments.