Sofia Sanchez Honors the First Barbie Doll With Down Syndrome For Her Pink Carpet Look

The “Barbie” movie premiere looks continue to amaze – from Dua Lipa’s sheer ensemble to Margot Robbie’s Schiaparelli sequin gown. But one star in particular really caught our attention: Sofia Sanchez. On the pink carpet on July 9, the Ukrainian actress and advocate channeled Mattel’s latest creation, the first Barbie doll with Down syndrome.

Sanchez, who has Down syndrome, wore a replica of Barbie’s dress, which was hand-painted by Doloris Petunia, according to Sanchez’s Instagram Story highlight. The sweet puff-sleeve dress features butterflies in a mostly yellow and blue color palette, which are symbols and colors associated with Down syndrome awareness. The pink pendant necklace Sanchez is wearing has three upward-facing chevrons, just like the Barbie doll with Down syndrome; this represents the three copies of the 21st chromosome, the genetic anomaly that results in Down syndrome characteristics.

Sanchez’s fashion choice shows just how much representation matters. The fact that she could channel Barbie with Down syndrome in the first place is a monumental step in the right direction when it comes to diversity in children’s toys and media.

“This means so much for our community, who for the first time, can play with a Barbie doll that looks like them,” National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) CEO and President Kandi Pickard said in a statement about the initial release of the Barbie.

“This one makes me so happy,” Sanchez said in a TikTok for Good Morning America announcing the creation of Barbie with Down syndrome. She also chronicled herself getting ready for the big premiere on Instagram Stories on July 9. When asked how she felt, Sanchez responded “Precious.”

Barbie with Down syndrome is a part of Mattel’s Fashionistas line of over 175 dolls with different body types, skin tones, varying abilities, hair textures, and more.

The Barbie with Down syndrome ($11), along with the rest of the 2023 Fashionistas line of inclusive dolls, is available online now in major retail stores.