A fascinating research study has documented how Barbie dolls’ foot posture has changed dramatically since their debut in 1959. The comprehensive Enground analysis examined 2,750 iterations of Barbie-brand dolls produced as of June 2024. It showcases a huge change in the design of the globally recognised doll in order to adapt with current footwear tastes.
In the first decade of Barbie’s production, each doll pointed her toes. It was not only design, it was a cultural preference at the time, which favored high heels. Five months later, by June 2024, the amount of Barbie dolls on tip-toe had plummeted. Only 40% of them stuck to their guns on this position. This transformation reflects not only fashion trends but a broader societal shift towards practicality and diversity in women’s roles.
The joint study analyzed the impacts using an exciting new analysis system known as FEET. This new acronym encompasses Foot posture, Equity (diversity and inclusion), Employment (job-related), and Time period of manufacture. This framework allowed researchers to examine how Barbie’s foot positioning correlates with different occupational roles and the evolving expectations of women’s empowerment.
Barbie has always been able to change her shoes depending on the activity she’s representing. For example, dolls who are associated with practical roles usually have them in flats, while dolls created for the purpose of fashion will usually have high heels. Notable examples are Barbie Fashionista (#171) killing it with the high heel white ankle boot. Barbie Fashionista (#197) displays an attention-grabbing yellow platform heel with on-trend anklets. Barbie Interior Designer wears ballet flats on her foot and on her prosthetic leg. Barbie Paramedic comes equipped with sensible work boots.
In addition, the study has increased awareness of the need for greater inclusivity, especially in the way of accurately representing various body types and abilities. Barbie Fashionista (#208) struts her stuff with full of Down Syndrome and flair, including the sneakers specifically made for her ankle-foot-orthoses. This just goes to show how fashion can be fashionable and practical! On the other hand, Barbie Fashionista (#210) exemplifies relaxation in her fashionable yellow slides.
Barbie’s ongoing evolution is a testament to our changing views of women’s work and empowerment. Since then, Mattel has released more than 200 different versions of Barbie. These iterations reflect social changes and continue to create relevancy of the doll in today’s culture.
The study titled “Flat out Fabulous: How Barbie’s foot posture and occupations have changed over the decades, and the lessons we can learn,” was published in PLOS One. Researchers are optimistic about future possibilities for Barbie’s character development, suggesting that a Podiatrist Barbie could be an intriguing addition to the line. One researcher humorously noted, “Who better to unpack Barbie’s high-heel habits than a team of podiatrists and a Barbie Collector?”