Recently we looked at the latest range of dolls available for Christmas. But here's a dolly with a difference for your little princess - it's Barbie in a burqa. Yes, her latest fashion makeover involves covering up in the outer garment worn by some women in Islamic traditions.
Lately we've seen Sugar Daddy Ken, and Christian Louboutin telling the world that Barbie has cankles. The fifty year old doll has never been more current or headline-grabbing.
The heavily-clad collectible dolls are being auctioned off at Sotheby's, with proceeds going to the charity Save The Children. It's not an official product, although Mattel is "backing" the auction, according to the Daily Mail. Italian designer Eliana Lorena has created more than 500 of the dolls, which are currently on display at the Salone dei Cinquecento, in Florence.
But other than the auction house, you won't be able to buy Burqa Barbie in your local Toys R Us. And even though this doll won't be available in toy shops, it's still ignited an outcry around the world.
Here's a clip of former Middle East journalist Brigitte Gabriel giving her opinion of Burka Barbie on Fox News in America. She's heavily critical of the dolls, and accuses them of contributing to opression of women.
What do you think? Are these dolls celebrating multi-culturalism, or are they a symbol of oppression? Leave a comment below
Source [ParentDish US]