Everyone knows by now that the dimensions of a Barbie doll could never exist naturally in real life, and to drive this crucial point home, high school student Galia Slayen decided to create a life-sized doll. Although clearly a rough sketch, this doll shows that Slayen has done a fantastic job depicting just how unrealistic Barbie's frame really is.
Using wood, chicken wire and papier mache, Galia Slayen's life-sized Barbie doll stands about 6 feet tall with a 39" bust, 18" waist and 33" hips. Next to Galia Slayen herself, this Barbie looks like she belongs in a freak show.
Galia Slayen created her life-sized Barbie doll for National Eating Disorder Awareness Week. Having suffered from anorexia, Galia Slayen doesn't blame Barbie, stating that "she’s one small factor, an environmental factor." She goes on to say, "I’m blond and blue-eyed and I figured that was what I was supposed to look like. She was my idol. It impacted the way I looked at myself."
Life-Sized Barbie Dolls
Galia Slayen Builds Barbie for National Eating Disorder Awareness Week
Trend Themes
1. Body Positivity Movement - This trend focuses on promoting self-acceptance and challenging unrealistic beauty standards, creating opportunities for brands to innovate by showcasing diverse body types.
2. Sustainable Materials in Fashion - With the awareness of the negative impacts of fast fashion, there is an opportunity for the fashion industry to innovate and use sustainable materials in their products.
3. Mental Health Awareness - As more attention is given to mental health issues, there is an opportunity for businesses to create innovative solutions, products, or campaigns that support and raise awareness for mental well-being.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Industry - The fashion industry can capitalize on the body positivity movement by featuring a wider range of body types in their advertising and clothing lines.
2. Education and Awareness - The education and awareness industry can develop programs and campaigns that promote body positivity and mental health, providing resources and support for individuals.
3. Toy Industry - The toy industry can innovate by creating more diverse and inclusive dolls that represent different body types, promoting positive body images among children.