Mattel Releases Cultural Look Based on a Mariachi Band Outfit
Meghan Young — February 9, 2015 — Life-Stages
References: barbie & latinospost
Although the previous Mexican Barbie edition was criticized for perpetuating outdated stereotypes of the culture, this latest version is much more careful. First of all, it strays away from a typical feminine identity for an outfit that is much more androgynous. Inspired by the Mariachi outfit, this particular Mexican Barbie is outfitted in a fitted black bolero jacket, cropped trousers trimmed and a wide-brimmed sombrero
Finished with gold brocade details, the Mexican Barbie outfit pays tribute to a rich culture of music in a way that people of all ethnicity will be able to appreciate. Granted, the Hispanic demographic will be drawn to a strong representation of their culture in particular. The Mexican Barbie introduces their traditions to the rest of the world in a very organic and friendly way, which can only be respected.
Finished with gold brocade details, the Mexican Barbie outfit pays tribute to a rich culture of music in a way that people of all ethnicity will be able to appreciate. Granted, the Hispanic demographic will be drawn to a strong representation of their culture in particular. The Mexican Barbie introduces their traditions to the rest of the world in a very organic and friendly way, which can only be respected.
Trend Themes
1. Cultural Representation in Toys - The release of the more culturally conscious Mexican Barbie edition highlights a growing trend towards representing diverse cultures in toys, creating opportunities for companies to develop products that celebrate and educate about different traditions and identities.
2. Androgynous Fashion in Dolls - The Mexican Barbie's departure from traditional feminine fashion towards a more androgynous outfit reflects a trend of breaking gender stereotypes in the toy industry, opening doors for companies to create inclusive and diverse doll options.
3. Cultural Appreciation Through Fashion - The outfit inspired by the Mariachi band costume on the Mexican Barbie showcases a trend of using fashion to honor and appreciate different cultures, presenting opportunities for fashion brands to create culturally inspired collections and collaborations.
Industry Implications
1. Toy - The release of the Mexican Barbie with a cultural outfit emphasizes the need for the toy industry to embrace diversity and create inclusive and educational toys that represent various cultures.
2. Fashion - The emergence of the Mexican Barbie's outfit as a celebration of a rich culture presents an opportunity for the fashion industry to explore collaborations with different cultural influences, creating innovative and inclusive fashion lines.
3. Education - The representation of cultural traditions on the Mexican Barbie provides an avenue for the education industry to develop diverse learning materials and resources that teach children about different cultures in an engaging and relatable way.
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