Many studies have been conducted on Barbie's body shape, but so far no one has taken a closer look at her feet. Until now, when researchers at Monash University in Frankston, Australia, have analyzed the feet of 2,750 Barbie models from 1959 to 2024.
The doll's feet have been categorized based on variables such as foot stance, diversity, occupation, and when the doll was manufactured.
The analysis, published in the journal Plos One, shows that career-oriented Barbie dolls have flat feet to a significantly higher extent, while fashion dolls more often stand on tiptoe. Dolls representing people with skin colors other than white also tend to stand on tiptoe.
The fact that the dolls' feet have become so clearly flatter over time indicates that changing roles in working life have changed Barbie's foot stance, the researchers conclude.
"Barbie chooses her shoes based on what she does – flat for function, high heels for fashion – which reflects how many wear high heels in reality," they write.
The research team, consisting of podiatrists and a Barbie collector, say they were surprised by what small Barbie feet can reveal about society and footwear. They hope to soon see a foot care specialist-Barbie.
"We're pretty sure we know what kind of shoes she would wear."
Her real name is actually Barbie Millicent Roberts.
Created by American Ruth Handler, who named the doll after her own daughter Barbara. The doll was launched in New York on March 9, 1959.
Barbie has been, among other things, an astronaut, pediatrician, pilot, game developer, and news anchor. She has served in all branches of the military and has run for president since 1992. Barbie has been almost everything – except a housewife.
