Barbie just took another major step forward in inclusive play. Mattel has officially introduced its first Autistic Barbie, designed in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN) to represent and celebrate the community — rather than treating autism as a label, this Barbie focuses on everyday experiences, sensory needs, communication styles and self-regulation, things many autistic people navigate daily.
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The new doll is part of the Barbie Fashionistas line, which aims to reflect the real world kids see around them. She wears a relaxed lavender-and-white pinstriped dress designed to look comfortable, paired with flat shoes for stability and her hair in a loose style (reflecting how autism can sometimes impact fine motor skills). Her accessories are where the representation really shines: noise-canceling headphones for sensory sensitivity, a functional fidget spinner to support stimming and an Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) tablet that highlights nonverbal communication. Flexible joints at the elbows and wrists allow kids to role-play natural hand movements.
Barbie Fashionistas Doll #245 in Purple Striped Dress, Autistic Barbie with Accessories
In this article: Barbie Fashionistas Doll #245 in Purple Striped Dress, Autistic Barbie with Accessories, Barbie Fashionistas Doll #228, Blind Barbie Doll and Barbie Doll with Wheelchair and Ramp
This release builds on Mattel’s broader push toward representation through play. Over the past few years, Barbie Fashionistas has introduced dolls representing a wide range of disabilities and conditions, created in partnership with advocacy organizations to ensure accuracy and respect. Together, these dolls send a clear message: Difference isn't something to hide — it’s something to see, understand and celebrate.
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Barbie Fashionistas Doll #228, Blind Barbie Doll
This Fashionistas doll was created in partnership with the American Foundation for the Blind and includes a white mobility cane and sunglasses. The doll wears a textured pink top and ruffled skirt, and the packaging features braille, helping introduce accessibility and representation through play.
Barbie Doll with Wheelchair and Ramp
This Barbie comes with a working wheelchair and matching ramp, designed to fit the dollhouse ecosystem. She wears a colorful rainbow romper and includes accessories that encourage imaginative storytelling. The set allows kids to explore mobility representation alongside everyday fashion and fun.
Barbie Fashionistas Doll #187 with Behind-the-Ear Hearing Aids
This Fashionistas doll features behind-the-ear hearing aids in a bright pink color, making them visible and normalized. She wears a simple shift dress and boots, and her accessories are designed to reflect real hearing devices. The doll encourages education and conversations about hearing differences and inclusion.
Barbie Fashionistas Doll #208 with Down Syndrome
Developed in partnership with the National Down Syndrome Society, this doll features facial sculpting and body proportions designed to reflect people with Down syndrome. She wears a floral dress and sneakers, blending thoughtful representation with classic Barbie Fashionistas style.
Release dates and prices listed reflect the time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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