In 1959, Barbie was introduced to consumers all over the world. She was an instant hit with young girls and quickly became the number one selling doll. However, with Barbie's increasing popularity, came skepticism from many who believed Barbie was sending the wrong message to her fans. Research has suggested that some women develop Barbie syndrome, which is an unhealthy and unrealistic desire to look like Barbie.
Yet despite the negative connotations Barbie may be offering young children, she still seems to prevail. Mac Cosmetics just recently introduced its spring line, with makeup designed to help Mac users get Barbie's look. This raises an important question: Is Barbie the best spokesperson to use to promote a new line of makeup?
In my perspective, there are definitely two sides to the coin. Barbie is a well recognized figure in our society, thus incorporating Barbie into Mac's campaigns could possible broaden their client base. On the flip side, I do believe that Barbie does provide many with unrealistic expectations of what they should look like. Mac is not only teaming up with Barbie for its "Barbie Loves Mac" campaign, but they also have six looks listed on their website that you can purchase to look like Malibu Barbie, Real Doll and Modern Ms, etc. This could ultimately lead to negative publicity if they become subject to criticism by anti-Barbie protestors.
I'll leave you with this: Do you think Barbie will prove to be a positive image for Mac this spring?
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I've seen a lot of publicity for "Barbie loves Mac" and I'm sure younger children have to. The concept is clever, Mac teaming up with Barbie, a well recognized figure in our society, will definitely broaden Mac's client base. However, to add on more to your con, what about the children?
Will young girls try to achieve the "unrealistic expectation" of Barbie? I certainly wouldn't want my 12-year-old sister prancing around in the "Malibu Barbie" look to go see "Madagascar." I feel like if young girls see this campaign, they will feel the need to copy this look to be cool, hip or look like Barbie.
The campaign will serve as a positive image to my age group, but to younger teens -- there may be some trouble.
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