Sindy adds to the doll realism revolution

By Nell Walker
Share
The physical proportions of childrens dolls have long been a subject of discussion for parents and critics, but now Sindy – the British equivalent...

The physical proportions of children’s dolls have long been a subject of discussion for parents and critics, but now Sindy – the British equivalent of Barbie –actually has the shape of its target audience.

 

Pedigree Dolls and Toys, the company which makes Sindy, wanted to create a role model for young girls by releasing a larger, more child-like and casually-dressed doll. It has grown from 10.5 inches to 18 inches, and wears jeans, jumpers, and trainers.

Sindy has had many looks over the years – including famously sporting a tiny crop top and shorts for the brand’s relaunch in 1999 – but the company wants her to appeal to children and parents alike with a substantially younger-looking frame.

Sindy dolls haven’t been available to buy since Woolworths closed in 2007. It is hoped that this revamp with bring Sindy back to the fore, following in the footsteps of a spate of realistic doll releases. Mattel, after years of criticism for its depiction of women, released a range of Barbies in different shapes - tall, curvy, and petite - early this year. While it received some backlash, the overall response was that of a win for diversity.

Mattel’s decision was based on another doll, the Lammily doll, which has the average proportions of a 19-year-old. Nickolay Lamm also created the Period Party Lammily in an attempt to better normalise the concept of periods, as well as a male doll, and the added feature of Lammily Marks which include cellulite, acne, and stretchmarks.

Doll creation appears to be heading in the right direction at last.

 

Follow @ManufacturingGL and @NellWalkerMG

Share

Featured Articles

Sir David McMurty: A Visionary Engineer, Inventor and Leader

Sir David McMurty, Co-Founder of Renishaw has passed, leaving a legacy of manufacturing achievement, creating inventions and a unique company culture

IFS: Gaining New Manufacturing Value with Service Centricity

Leaders like IFS are empowering manufacturers to unlock significant business value with outcome-based service models, supercharging their customer service

Your Guide to Manufacturing LIVE Chicago

With just six months to go until Manufacturing LIVE Chicago, explore the highlights you can look forward to below

UPDATED VENUE & DATE – Manufacturing LIVE Chicago 2025

Sustainability & ESG

The Breakdown of the Global Plastics Treaty isn't the end

Sustainability & ESG

Stellantis Plant Shutdown Confirms EV Manufacturing Concerns

Sustainability & ESG