Barbie’s world just got a little bigger.
According to ABC News, Mattel is rolling out its first Barbie designed to represent someone on the autism spectrum, marking the latest addition to the company’s long-running effort to broaden how its iconic dolls reflect real people.
The new Barbie joins the Fashionistas lineup, which already includes dolls with Down syndrome, Type 1 diabetes, hearing aids, prosthetic limbs, vitiligo, and a wide range of body shapes and skin tones.
The autism-themed Barbie wasn’t rushed. Mattel spent more than a year and a half developing the doll in partnership with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network (ASAN), a nonprofit focused on disability rights and authentic representation. The challenge, according to those involved, was avoiding a one-size-fits-all portrayal.
“Autism doesn’t look any one way,” said Noor Pervez, ASAN’s community engagement manager. “But we can try and show some of the ways that autism expresses itself.”
The doll’s gaze is slightly averted, reflecting the fact that some autistic people may find direct eye contact uncomfortable. The Barbie also features articulated elbows and wrists, acknowledging stimming behaviors such as hand movements that can support sensory regulation or reduce excitement.
Clothing was another area of careful consideration. Sensory sensitivity varies widely among autistic people, including how fabric feels against the skin. Some prefer loose clothing, while others feel more grounded in fitted garments.
The final design features a short-sleeved A-line dress with a flowing skirt, chosen to minimize contact with excess fabric. Flat shoes were selected for comfort and ease of movement.
Accessories also play a role in representation. Each doll includes a pink finger-clip fidget spinner, noise-canceling headphones, and a pink tablet inspired by assistive communication devices often used by autistic people who struggle with verbal speech.
The doll’s face also reflects intentional choices. Mattel said the features were inspired by employees in India and were paired with mood boards featuring women from diverse Indian backgrounds.
Pervez noted that this aspect was especially meaningful, as autistic people from certain racial and cultural communities are frequently underrepresented.
“Barbie has always strived to reflect the world kids see and the possibilities they imagine,” Mattel’s global head of dolls, Jamie Cygielman, said in a statement. “We’re proud to introduce our first autistic Barbie as part of that ongoing work.”
The new Barbie is expected to be available starting Monday through Mattel’s online shop and at Target stores, priced at $11.87. Walmart is slated to begin carrying the doll in March.