Overview
- The Fashionistas doll features articulated wrists and elbows for stimming, a subtly averted gaze, a loose-fitting dress and flat shoes, plus noise-canceling headphones, a fidget spinner and an AAC-style tablet.
- Mattel developed the doll with the Autistic Self Advocacy Network over more than 18 months to reflect some autistic experiences without implying a single portrayal.
- The doll went on sale Jan. 12 for a suggested $11.87 at Mattel Shop and Target, with a Walmart rollout expected in March.
- As part of the launch, Mattel will donate more than 1,000 dolls to pediatric hospitals that serve children on the autism spectrum.
- Coverage highlights broad praise for visibility alongside critiques that one product cannot capture the full diversity of autistic experiences.