Mattel, which has had several quarters of declining sales and an 18% domestic sales drop over the holidays for Barbie, its largest and most profitable line, decided to shake things up by today rolling out a new look for Ken. Like the last time Mattel pulled a stunt like this, two years ago when Ken and Barbie broke-up, the announcement made headlines.
Ken’s new look, you see, is “aimed at making a love reconnection with Barbie,” although I don’t think it’s gonna work out.
One of the new Ken styles has him decked out in “torn, rough jeans, a weathered, motocross leather jacket, vintage t-shirt and rugged boots,” while the other has him dolled up as a beach boy with less poufy, “sun-kissed” hair.
Hollywood stylist Phillip Bloch, who advised Mattel on the new designs, says Ken’s new look reflects how the character has “spent time exploring the world and himself.”
Ken has revamped his life—mind, body and soul. Everyone knows how difficult it is to change, especially when you’ve lived your life a certain way for more than four decades.
Are you thinking what I’m thinking? Ken=GAY! Or at least a Jude Law caliber metrosexual. Look out Barbie; before you know it, Ken will have more personal styling products in the bathroom than you do.