Designers Create New Barbie Dolls Based On Their Culture

Carlyle Nuera, Anita Dongre, and Kris Goyri introduce their Filipino, Indian, and Mexican heritage to the globally beloved Barbie doll.

As part of the Barbie Signature Dolls Collection, Mattel has partnered with three designers to showcase their own take on the iconic doll.

Each designer proudly paid homage to their own respective cultural heritage, adding their own unique flair for fashion.

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Filipino Couture

Filipino-American artist and designer Carlyle Nuera participated in the second installment of Barbie’s Styled by Design series. For his creation, he blended traditional Filipino fashion and haute couture.

It’s a marvel how the designer managed to fit so many intricate details in one doll, from head to toe. Upon her head, the crown symbolizes the Philippine sun, found in our very own flag. The headpiece is also laced with sampaguita, the country’s national flower.

Her cream corset top features a dramatic take on traditional terno sleeves while her black malong-inspired skirt has gold textile print. 

The doll’s arms are adorned with indigenous batok tattoos and she wears janggay jewelry on her fingers. Lastly, her bakya platforms have little bahay kubo and hills carved into them.

“I could have designed anything but I knew this was an opportunity to do something meaningful for my people in the spirit of representation. Being Filipino is my most foundational identity,” Nuera wrote on Instagram.

Carlyle Nuera's first Filipino Barbie, Mutya (2015), with his latest creation
Carlyle Nuera’s first Filipino Barbie, Mutya (2015), with his latest creation | Image via Instagram @carlylenuera

The doll was released in October, coinciding with Filipino American History Month. It’s still currently available for pre-order on Mattel’s website for $100.

Diwali Barbie

Designed by esteemed couturier Anita Dongre, Diwali Barbie is just about ready to celebrate the Festival of Lights. Her fashionable look, titled the Moonlight Bloom set, is a contemporary take on the traditional lehenga.

The doll’s choli top and skirt are decorated with dahlias, jasmines, and an Indian lotus, which represents strength and beauty. Her look is completed with golden bangles and earrings.

Anita Dongre's Diwali Barbie
Anita Dongre’s Diwali Barbie | Image via Mattel’s official website

“Designing the Barbie Diwali doll has truly been a fun and fulfilling experience,” Dongre shared. “This Barbie Diwali doll represents the fashion-forward modern woman, who wears India on her sleeve with pride.”

“I’m honoured for this opportunity to represent contemporary Indian fashion on a global platform and hope that it inspires kids across the world to connect with their culture and heritage.”

Diwali Barbie went on sale earlier this month for $40. However, it is now currently sold out.

Día de Muertos

Paying homage to another festival, this time one celebrated in Mexico, designer Kris Goyri created the Día de Muertos Barbie doll.

Nahuatl legend details the path a soul takes to cross into the world of the dead, guided by the sacred dog, Xolo. On Día de Muertos (the Day of the Dead), family and friends gather to pay respects and remember those who have passed with a festive atmosphere.

Kris Goyri's Día de Muertos Barbie
Kris Goyri’s Día de Muertos Barbie | Image via Mattel’s official website

Through Goyri’s signature fusion of traditional Mexican culture with modern elements, his doll is ready to welcome the festival of remembrance. His doll wears a pleated white gown with voluminous sleeves, accented by vibrant marigold flowers.

These flowers are often used to decorate altars or ofrendas (offerings) to honor the departed and encourage visits from the land of the dead.

Her look is finished with a festive headpiece, a turquoise necklace featuring a radiant golden pendant, matching earrings, and bold burgundy boots.

Goyri also hand-designed the makeup, capturing the essence of the “Catrina,” a skull or skeleton character associated with Día de Muertos.

Only available to members for now, the doll retails for $100 and is currently out of stock.

Banner image via Mattel’s official website.

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