Mattel Releases Its First Transgender Barbie, Inspired By Laverne Cox
Images via Mattel / Fashionstock .com | Dreamstime.com
Joining Mattel’s growingly diverse lineup of Barbie dolls is Laverne Cox, whose likeness has inspired the first-ever transgender Barbie.
Cox, an LGBTQIA+ activist and actress most remembered for her role in Orange is the New Black, worked closely with the toymaker on the design of the doll. The Barbie launched just ahead of her 50th birthday on May 29.
Images via Mattel
The Laverne Cox doll dons a red one-shoulder ball gown with a fitted corset and sparkly, sheer tulle skirt—with some extra-cool features.
Image via Mattel
Although Cox wished the doll could be fitted with multiple outfits, she understood that this idea wouldn’t fall within the budget. As a compromise, Mattel made components of the dress detachable, creating a “triple-threat ensemble,” in the words of Barbie designers, that gives off different looks.
Beneath the glam red number, in fact, is a silver catsuit with shimmery heels.
Images via Mattel
“I love her outfit,” the trans actress tells People.
An interesting touch is the mix of highlights and lowlights thoughtfully imagined on the doll’s head. Cox sports blonde locks these days, but dark hair was added to honor her Black heritage.
The actress, who has shattered boundaries to thrive in the entertainment industry as a trans woman, hopes young children will be inspired to dream big like she did.
The first transgender Barbie has hit major stores for a price of US$40.
