Drop everything. I repeat, drop everything to check out the all-new Anita Dongre collaboration with Barbie, and I’m trying to say this with all the composure nestled in every fibre of my being at the misconstrued behest of sounding like I’m being paid undercover, to promote this collaboration. I wish. Feel free to slide into my DMs for such things though, in case anyone’s asking.
Anita Dongre just pulled a classic Anita Dongre by somehow making a visceral part of our childhoods come to life in a never-imagined merger with Mattel. The doll they’ve worked on together marries Indian culture (there are no glaring reds and oversized maang-tikaas, so bless the gods) with the global sensation that is, Barbie. With a contemporary take on Rajasthani sensibilities, the reimagined, desi version (albeit a decade late, would’ve loved to have had it as a kid) comes enclosed in a Diwali-themed set-up, with the ensemble reverberating the celebratory essence of the festive season. Stunning.
Meet you at the store. Bye. Till then, read our chat with Anita Dongre on all things design, the fabrics utilised and her relationship with Barbie growing up.
ELLE: Tell us about your Diwali special collaboration with Barbie.
Anita Dongre: Mattel reached out to us over a year ago for this incredible project and I was thrilled with the prospect of being able to represent contemporary Indian fashion through a Diwali Barbie doll. Barbie has always been an aspirational, fashion icon through the decades. So it’s a special collaboration indeed!
ELLE: What went into the process of shortlisting fabrics, colours, embellishments etc. and on what basis did the selections make the final cut?
Anita Dongre: I had a lot of fun ideating on various silhouettes and then made the final choice based on the story we wanted to tell – a Barbie that represents the fashion-forward modern woman, who wears India on her sleeve with pride.
ELLE: You’re the first Indian designer to boast of this collaboration. What, according to you, was important to highlight about the Indian textile and design heritage in your collection for Barbie?
Anita Dongre: Yes, I am proud to be the first Indian designer to work with Barbie on the Signature Diwali Doll (limited edition) that will be launched globally. I’m happy to be a part of Indian representation on a global stage. My designs have always celebrated India, and this collaboration stays true to that ethos. A skirt set that is a contemporary take on the traditional lehenga paired with a Rajasthan-inspired koti jacket, the nature-inspired motifs are a signature of the brand. This doll beautifully encapsulates the elegance and joy of Diwali, celebrating both Indian artistry and traditions.
ELLE: Did you ever play with dolls growing up? What’s your relationship with the iconic Barbie?
Anita Dongre: Yes of course, I had a collection of dolls (but not Barbie since it wasn’t available in India while I was growing up). Barbie has always exuded empowerment and confidence. She was ambitious and very aspirational to me. Over the years I have admired how Barbie has inspired young children across the world to explore the limitless possibilities ahead of them.
ELLE: What’s your message to young girls who’ll potentially buy these dolls?
Anita Dongre: I hope this doll inspires children everywhere to embrace their culture with pride and to know that they can pursue any dream without any limitations. Representation is so important, and seeing their heritage celebrated on the global stage can help young children feel seen, appreciated, and valued.
Also Read: ELLE Exclusive: Mattel Launches A Blind Barbie Doll Championing True Inclusion
