There’s a new Barbie in town, and she’s Filipina!
Is there a better way to celebrate Filipino American History Month than paying homage to Filipino cultural influences and artistry with Mattel’s latest Filipina Barbie?
Mattel’s newest addition to their doll collection was crafted by Filipino-American (Fil-Am) designer Carlyle Nuera, the lead designer for Barbie Signature at Mattel. The Fil-Am designer elevated the traditional Filipino fashion and transported it into the realm of haute couture.
photo courtesy: Mattel
A homage to Nuera’s Filipino-American heritage, the second installment of the Styled by Design series embraces the Filipina radiance from beauty, fashion, and traditions.
“From the radiant crown of the Philippine sun and fingers that sparkle with elegant gold janggay jewelry, to the intricate bahay kubo designs featured on her bakya platforms, Carlyle’s Barbie doll is radiant from head to toe,” Mattel wrote in its website description.
photo courtesy: Mattel
In the spirit of representation, Nuera turned to his Filipino roots for inspiration, as it is his most foundational identity. According to the designer, he could’ve designed anything, but knew that it was an opportunity to do something meaningful for the Pinoy community.
“I am sooo hyped for this Barbie to finally be out in the world and hopefully make the anaks feel seen, represented, inspired and proud,” Nuera wrote in an Instagram post.
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The new Filipino Barbie is the second coming of 2015’s Mutya Barbie. In an Instagram post, Nuera expounded the idea of how the Mutya doll differs from the new Barbie doll he made. Although appearing different, Nuera highlighted how he wanted a link between the two dolls who are such bright spots in his career.
“Mutya Barbie really changed the trajectory of my career and made me realize the power & platform I have as a designer, especially for an enduring global icon like Barbie. So I wanted to build upon all of that with my Styled By Design Barbie,” Nuera expressed.
photo courtesy: Mattel
The second Styled by Design Barbie doll was made available for pre-order to Barbie Fan Club members on October 9 and was released to the general public on October 10. Customers may purchase the doll for $100 or Php5,732 through Mattel’s official website.
The website noted that orders will be shipped on or before December 20, 2024.
