Why England soccer star Chloe Kelly gets her own Barbie doll
Chloe Kelly, England’s Soccer Star, Becomes a Barbie Role Model
Chloe Kelly, a forward for Arsenal in the Women’s Super League, has earned a place in the Barbie lineup as the brand’s latest role model. The 28-year-old athlete, celebrated for her swift speed and striking goals, is a key figure in England’s national team, the Lionesses, who reached the 2023 World Cup final. Her inclusion in the Barbie series marks a significant milestone, recognizing her iconic role in securing the UEFA European Women’s Championship win in 2022 and the decisive penalty in the 2025 Euros final.
A Miniature Tribute to a Champion
The Barbie version of Kelly is clad in the 2025 Lionesses kit, crafted by Nike. The design features a red and blue ombre stripe on the chest, paired with blue shorts, red and white side stripes, knee-high socks, and soccer shoes. In contrast, Kelly’s real-world appearance showcases a denim blouse and tailored trousers by British-Nigerian designer Tolu Coker, reflecting her versatile style that blends high fashion with casual elegance.
“I’m very proud to have my very own Barbie doll,” Kelly shared while filming her campaign in a London warehouse. “It proves our sport is here to stay. We inspire on the field, but this recognition off the field is huge.”
Barbie’s Shift Toward Inclusivity
Barbie’s role model initiative, now in its tenth year, highlights women who have “brought their dreams to life” and “broken boundaries.” Mattel, the brand’s owner, aims to broaden its portrayal of beauty beyond traditional stereotypes—blonde hair, blue eyes, and hourglass figures—to embrace diverse body types, skin tones, and abilities. While the doll has evolved to reflect this change, the real-life stories of athletes like Kelly add depth to the campaign’s message.
From Underdogs to Icons
Barbie has increasingly ventured into sports, spotlighting trailblazers such as Sue Bird, Venus Williams, and Ilona Maher. Recent efforts have also celebrated less-visible roles, including coaches, trainers, and reporters. For Kelly, the collaboration symbolizes more than just a toy—it represents a bridge between her sport and the next generation. Her mother’s generation faced a 50-year ban on women playing football, from 1921 to 1971, due to claims that the sport was “unsuitable” for women’s health. This history makes Kelly’s presence in the Barbie line a powerful statement.
Kelly’s journey from a 17-year-old debutant to a national team captain is emblematic of her impact. After returning to Arsenal from Manchester City—first on loan in January 2025, then permanently by summer—she helped the team claim their first European trophy in 18 years. In July 2025, she scored the winning penalty against Spain, securing the Lionesses’ second Euros title. Her achievements underscore the progress made in women’s football, while her Barbie doll serves as a reminder of the hurdles overcome.
