When you think of modern-day feminist icons names like Malala Yousafzai, Michelle Obama and Gloria Steinem leap to mind. But what about…Cardi B?
The “I Like It” rapper has teamed up with Real Women Are to release a limited-edition fashion doll made in her likeness. Just in time for Women’s History Month, the multi-platinum recording artist is teaming up with the inclusive doll brand to celebrate the power and diversity of girls everywhere, says a press release for the dolls.
Made in her “outspoken, colorful and confident” likeness, the doll went on sale Friday and is available today only at realwomenare.com. Dolls pre-ordered will ship in July.
“As everyone knows, I’m a mom. And today, more than ever, it’s important to me to give my daughter inspiration and badass women to look up to,” said Cardi B. “Working with Real Women Are is a chance for me to provide my daughter and other little girls something that looks like them to play with to inspire them. We’re in the White House now, but we’re still so far behind in other places. Representation matters.”
And while all that is certainly admirable, there’s a good chance that many parents will have a difficult time giving their little girls a doll that potentially puts them in the position of explaining what “WAP” stands for.
This is Cardi B’s first doll, and Real Women Are is the first minority-owned and led doll brand targeting women and girls of all ethnicities backed by the National Entertainment Collectibles Association (NECA), said a press release.
“What makes Real Women Are special is that young girls of color are a priority to the doll brand,” shared Cardi B. “We want them to know that they are special. That they are worthy of having a toy that looks like them. We’re not building Real Women Are as an afterthought or something just to check off a box. Creating a doll that is a mirror of our daughters, nieces and granddaughters is at our very core.”
The Cardi B doll’s clothes will be fashion-forward with hair and makeup that reflects today’s beauty trends. Additional wardrobe and accessories will be sold separately.
The Cardi B Real Women Are Doll was released March 5 and orders will only be accepted for 72 hours, ending March 8. Fans and collectors can purchase the doll at realwomenare.com which retails for $35.
It remains to be seen if parents will really buy Cardi B dolls for their daughters. We’re waiting for someone to make an Amanda Gorman doll – now that would be a hit any month of the year!