A Barbie with no thigh gap? Where do I sign up!? When it was announced that there was a body positive Barbie created in the likeness of the GORGEOUS supermodel and body activist, Ashley Graham, my thighs rejoiced! No, seriously! Just thinking on the phrase “thick thighs saves lives” and remembering that 1) they actually do, and 2) the #SpeakBeautiful talk from Blogalicious Weekend that reminded me that…I AM ENOUGH!
“Thighs touching, round hips, arms and tummy!! Thank you Mattel and Barbie for immortalizing me into plastic!” —Ashley Graham #beautybeyondsize | Instagram
Ashley was the first plus-size supermodel to appear on the COVER of Sports Illustrated. Yeah…that’s a big deal! And I’ve always loved her because she is beauty personified and she empowers so many women to love and accept their body…flaws, cellulite, and all. This mindset is not just for us “curvy/plus girls” either—but for any woman or girl who is her own worst critic.
Don’t get me wrong…
I will always be an advocate for improving self while loving yourself on the way to where you want to be. But getting caught up in the Instagram hype while noticing a trend that everyone wants to look like one of those ‘Dashians, annnnd almost every girl on IG looks the same is a reminder that we are living in a lost generation of unrealistic beauty standards. I mentioned in my previous post how comparison can be the thief of joy, and that “4 out of every 5 negative tweets Twitter identified about beauty and body image are women talking about themselves.”
We need to work together to redefine the global image of beauty and continue to push for a more inclusive world…I’m thrilled Barbie has not only evolved their product, but also has continued to honor women who are pushing boundaries. It’s an honor to be immortalized in plastic.” —Ashley Graham, Sports Illustrated Cover Model
Photo: Mattel
[Tweet “I have to remind myself that our girls are watching and listening.—Artney W., MPBF #beautybeyondsize “]
I am thrilled that Mattel is not only showcasing a diverse group of Barbie’s, but that now women and girls can find a Barbie that looks just like them. From hair texture, hips for days, thick thighs that save lives, tall and lean, eclectic hair color…the list goes on!
But we can’t let this movement be in vain, we have to keep spreading love and light and letting every woman and girl know that they are beautiful! Ashley’s Barbie is not for sale just yet, but if you really want it like I do…make sure you let Mattel know by tagging @barbie and using the hashtag #ashleygrahambarbie.
Because…I seriously want this Barbie under my tree for Christmas, guys. *serious face* Let’s make it happen!
#SpeakBeautiful
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