Hillary Clinton's headbands, Sarah Palin's bouffant, and Michelle Obama's polished bob are all examples of the hair statements made by some of the most influential women in politics. Now, naturally, Barbie joins the ranks of leading feminine policy makers and public figures in her newest incarnation, the I Can Be... President doll, and we're wondering how Barbie might really appeal to voters if this is what our candidate looked like.
First and foremost, we're all for Barbie finally making her way into the White House — while wearing a custom Chris Benz outfit and pair of shoes, thankyouverymuch. But, at first sight of our new POTUS, we have to ask why the Barbs chose this 'do for her inauguration. Somewhat static and ripe with pagentry, Barbie's blonde hair is seriously shellacked all the way down to her dramatically flipped ends. While we might not raise an eyebrow otherwise, we noticed that 2008's presidential Mattel doll sported a softer, side-swept look (imagine Palin's half-up 'do, minus the volume and the bangs). Four years later, as we prepare to once again head to the ballots, is this hardened look what voters really expect and respond to from female political leaders?
While there shouldn't be a coiff that distracts from real issues of importance, I Can Be... President Barbie makes us question the way we think about how female political figures choose to style one of their most inherently feminine features — their locks. Does this kind of immobile style represent a more serious and qualified candidate? Or, would you be put off by this intentionally put-on image? Share your opinions below — and feel free to let us know if you think this is a major non-issue, as well.
Photo: Courtesy of Mattel