Barbie Celebrates Black History Month in a Fashion-Forward Way

This February, Mattel is encouraging young Black girls to consider a future in fashion with help from Barbie!

To celebrate multiple generations of Black female designers, Barbie is partnering with the Black in Fashion Council (BIFC) to inspire a brighter future for the next generation of girls. A new Barbie, inspired by the first Black Barbie doll, is also available now.

The BIFC aims to increase representation while securing the future of Black individuals in the fashion and beauty industry. Barbie and BFIC are breaking the barriers that prevent young girls from pursuing design by creating custom programs for the 2025 ENVSN Festival. This two-day event for young designers features industry professionals, interactive workshops, and unforgettable experiences!

These upcoming programs will focus on breaking the barriers that Black individuals face in the fashion industry. With help from Black designers Larissa Muehleder, Nia Thomas, and Fumi Egbon, Barbie and BIFC will provide the festival with interactive sessions for self-expression, mentorship opportunities, and workshops featuring fashion industry leaders. To learn more about the ENVSN Festival, visit envsnfestival.com.

Speaking of fashion, Barbie is celebrating the 45th anniversary of the first Black Barbie doll with a new doll. Designed by the trailblazing fashion designer Kitty Black Perkins, this stunning doll wears an off-shoulder gown with matching red heels and a golden cuff bracelet that nods to the 1980s doll. With gorgeous curls and a beautiful mauve lip, this anniversary doll honors Perkins’s long-standing history with Barbie and is now available at the link below.

Families can celebrate Black History Month and encourage young girls to pursue a design career with these upcoming programs and the celebratory doll. Families can also view the 1980s Black Barbie Collection and the Barbie Black History Month apparel lines on the Barbie Amazon storefront.