Aleali May x Barbie drop an exclusive and representative collection.
Toys are genderless, and we really know that today. But growing up in the 1990s and 2000s, the world was quite limited in terms of representation.
But there was something that always told the girls — and everyone who needed that message — that we can be whatever we want: veterinarian, teacher, scientist, athlete, or designer. And that was Barbie.
Aleali May, the stylist, influencer of basketball culture, and considered the queen of the Air Jordans, was one of these girls who got inspired by the doll. And proving that, she became everything she wanted to be, being invited by Mattel to create an exclusive collection.
May's Barbie was inspired by her appearance, as well as her style. One of the first outfits includes a maxi puffer coat, a streetwear icon, and a leather set in a Destiny's Child vibe. Btw, the leather pieces are part of a sample from her upcoming personal line designed with Thirtynine Seven's founder Marquel.
Like May, her Barbie brings collabs, such as her first Air Jordan 1 Shadow, from 2017, and her Martine Ali cage bag. The second outfit is inspired by her recent Air Jordan 14 Fortune, featuring a bodysuit, over-the-knee suede boots, and baggy pants all in jade green.
On her Instagram, May said: “I was still looking for representation in the realm of toys. A toy that can get as fly as I see myself — a representation of the many women I had posters of in my '90s childhood room. Girl groups, R&B singers, rappers & models, the same girls who showed girls like me that we can be that girl too. Teaching the next up about our inspirations, honoring the ones who’ve come and looking brightly towards the future.”
In addition to the designer, Evan Mock, Kristopher Kites, and Blue The Great were also invited to create their own collections, reimagining Barbie's role as an expression of creativity for everyone.
Barbie Aleali May will only be available through a private auction, but her collection of outfits and accessories can be purchased from December 3 at authorized stores.
Here’s why Aleali May is considered the queen of the Jordans.