# Barbie and Ken doll proportions now closer to real life, study finds 2026-08-13T05:40:46+00:00 | Entertainment | Indian Opinion Desk Corroboration: 1 independent outlet A new study from the University of Adelaide and UNSW Sydney has found that the body proportions of modern Barbie and Ken dolls are significantly closer to real human measurements. The research, led by Associate Professor Sara Grafenauer, analysed the latest versions of the iconic toys and noted that waist-to-hip and chest-to-waist ratios now fall within normal female ranges, though still below the average. This marks a sharp reversal from a landmark 1996 study that found Barbie and Ken’s proportions were almost unattainable in real life. Grafenauer said the diversification is positive given the dolls’ influence on children’s early perceptions of adult bodies. ## Coverage - hindustantimes.com Tags: Barbie, body image, Ken, toy industry, University of Adelaide, UNSW Canonical: https://indianopinion.org/barbie-and-ken-doll-proportions-now-closer-to-real-life-study-finds/ License: Summary and commentary (c) Indian Opinion, reusable with attribution. Facts belong to the linked sources. Cite: https://indianopinion.org/barbie-and-ken-doll-proportions-now-closer-to-real-life-study-finds/#story-in-brief Review state: restored archive article, accurate at time of publication, not offered to search indexes.