Where to buy Mattel's first ever 'blind' Barbie doll in UK shops

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As well as representing a visually impaired woman, the doll also comes with several features which make it accessible for blind and low-vision children. The clothes for instance are made with tactile fabric including a tulle skirt and satin T-shirt, and the fastenings on the back are designed to be easier to take on and off.

Plus, the packaging is more accessible, with the word 'Barbie' written in braille on the front.

Mattel conducted testing for the doll with visually impaired children and consulted a number of charities including the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB).

In a statement, Debbie Miller, the director of customer advice and support at the charity, said: “Barbie is all about joy – about discovering and understanding the world through play – and it’s wonderful to think that children with a vision impairment can now play with a Barbie that looks like them."

Meanwhile, Krista Berger, the senior vice-president of Barbie and the global head of dolls, said: “We recognise that Barbie is much more than just a doll; she represents self-expression and can create a sense of belonging.”

So, if you're looking to pick up this new brilliant Barbie, here's everything you need to know.

'Blind' Barbie is already on sale in the UK.

The newest member of the Fashionistas range went on sale on Tuesday 23rd July following Mattel's announcement.

'Blind' Barbie is available to buy from Mattel itself, as well as multiple UK retailers such as Argos, The Entertainer and Smyths.

How much does this new Barbie doll cost?

This newest Barbie doll costs just £13.99 – the same as other members of the Fashionista range like the Barbie with Down Syndrome and the Barbie with Hearing Aids.

Has Barbie released any other inclusive dolls?

Yes! In 2019 Barbie made history with their first collection of dolls reflecting permanent physical disabilities, including a doll with a wheelchair and prosthetic leg. Since then they have also introduced Barbies with hearing aids and Barbies with vitiligo.

Here's a closer look at what you can get:

Barbie Fashionistas Wheelchair Barbie Doll, £23.99

Mattel has released six Barbie's in wheelchairs so far, varying in skin colour and hairstyle. Plus, you can buy two Ken dolls, one of which is a Rhythmic Gymnast!

Barbie Fashionista Prosthetic Leg Doll, £13.99

The Barbie Prosthetic Leg Doll comes in four designs: a brunette doll with a blue dress, a doll with bright pink hair, a blonde doll – who also works as an interior designer and carries design palettes with her – and a Ken doll wearing a basketball jersey.

Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Down Syndrome, £13.99

Alongside their first visually impaired Barbie, Mattel has also partnered with American organisation, the National Down Syndrome Society, this month to release the first black Barbie with Down Syndrome. This follows the first Barbie with Down Syndrome which was released last year.