EL SEGUNDO, Calif., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- Toy giant Mattel released its first collection of noticeably diverse Barbie dolls on Thursday, complete with petite and curvy body types.
The move comes after a reported two years of planning and development, and is intended to reflect the diversity of today's society.
"Barbie reflects the world girls see around them," Barbie president and chief operating officer Richard Dickson said in a statement. "Her ability to evolve and grow with the times, while staying true to her spirit, is central to why Barbie is the number one fashion doll in the world."
Mattel says this year's new Barbies, part of its Fashionistas line, includes four body types -- original, tall, petite and curvy; 22 eye colors; 24 hairstyles and an ever-growing collection of clothing.
Last year, the toy company released 23 new dolls with differing skin tones and hair types, as well as a flat foot as opposed to previous dolls, which had arched feet for fitting into plastic high heels.
"We are excited to literally be changing the face of the brand," said Barbie senior vice president Evelyn Mazzocco. "These new dolls represent a line that is more reflective of the world girls see around them -- the variety in body type, skin tones and style allows girls to find a doll that speaks to them."
The new collection is currently available to order online and will hit store shelves in spring 2016.
"We believe we have a responsibility to girls and parents to reflect a broader view of beauty," Mazzocco said.
