By Rebecca Stewart

Barbie has been given a “real-world” makeover, with Matell adding three new body shapes and seven skin tones to its range of dolls to make the toy “more reflective of the world girls see around them”.

The move marks the first time in Barbie’s 27-year history that her slim frame has been given an overhaul.

The latest collection, dubbed ‘Fashionistas’, comprises, tall, curvy and petite dolls and was announced by the toy firm on Twitter.