The ever popular Barbie doll is getting a makeover to reflect a more 'true to form' body image for young children.

Mattel, the makers of the toy since 1959, have announced that the doll will now be available in three new body types.

Along with the original Barbie, whose body measurements are impossible in reality, the dolls will now also come in "tall, petite and curvy" body forms.

The company also announced that the redesigned dolls will also have seven different skin-tones, 22 eye colours and 30 hair colours to promote more diversity for their customers.

The changes come following years of criticism received by the doll manufacturers claiming that the doll presents young girls with an unrealistic and unattainable conception of the perfect female form.

Senior Vice President for the company, Evelyn Mazzacco commented: "We believe we have a responsibility to girls and parents to reflect a broader view of beauty "

Writing for the Telegraph, Belinda Parmar believes that the company's move to include more body types is just a ploy to boost sales and does nothing for female empowerment. She denounces Mattel's move as being 'ten years too late':

"They should not be hanging onto the coat-tails of contemporary tastes and riding the wave of the latest trends, they should be actively contributing to forming them. Given their size, resources and influence over our young women, Mattel should be pioneers - driving the agenda rather than simply trying to keep up."

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