Barbie Doll - The Perfect Figure?

While no one will argue with the popularity of Mattel'sHer feet are also another source of criticism with
Barbie Doll, one area that has raised its fair share ofmany saying that Barbie's feet are only half the size of
controversy over the years is her figure.a normal womans due to foot binding. That is the
Many parents from around the world have argued thatpractice of preventing your feet from growing by
Barbie's ultra-slim figure represents a ridiculousconstricting them.
standard for a body shape. They say that many girlsSome have went as far as saying that the Barbie doll
grow up thinking that they must have the same figurehas caused their children to become anorexic from
as Barbie or there is something wrong with them.trying to maintain Barbie's figure. I think that may be a
While I don't take that radical of a stance, I will say thatlittle extreme, but I can see both sides.
it would be quite difficult to measure up to Barbie'sIn recent years, Mattel has given in a little bit on this
standards.issue and widened Barbie's waist a bit. This took place
If you take the measurements of Barbie, she would bearound the year 2000. Barbie now has a more
over 7 feet tall, weigh around 125 pounds, and have aproportioned waist.
shape of 32-20-42. Of course, no woman couldRegardless of what Barbie's figure looks like, or who is
maintain a figure like that, but this is where theright or wrong on this issue, the real winner in this
controversy stems.debate is Mattel. The added controversy and publicity
In addition, Barbie has a very long neck. In fact, heronly helps to fuel sales. I wonder why no one talks
neck is nearly twice the size of the average woman.about Ken's figure?