In celebration of icon Gloria Estefan’s 65th birthday (September 1) and Hispanic Heritage Month, collectible toy company Mattel has released the Gloria Estefan Barbie Doll.
“The best birthday present ever!” Estefan wrote on social media. “My very own mini me!”
The Barbie Signature doll is inspired by Estefan’s Cuban heritage and by the music video for her hit 1989 song “Get on Your Feet” from her debut solo album Cuts Both Ways.
“I’m honored to be partnering with Barbie to create a doll in my likeness, especially as I ring in my 65th birthday and right ahead Hispanic Heritage Month,” Estefan said in a statement. “When designing my Barbie with the team, I wanted to ensure I was staying true to my multicultural roots – and I believe we did just that.”
The Gloria Estefan Barbie Doll features a black jacket with gold details, jeweled accents, and laced sleeves. The doll also has a leopard belt and gold waist chain with leopard thigh-high boots and gold accessories.
“‘Get on Your Feet’ was chosen for her outfit since Gloria’s look is so iconic and recognizable in the music video,” doll designer Javier Meabe said in a statement. “The jacket and boots are so fun.”
Along with the release of Estefan’s doll, Barbie is partnering with Artistas y Musicos Latino Americanos (AMLA) and the Esperanza Arts Center (EAC). Barbie is helping fund private music lessons for children through AMLA. The company is also underwriting EAC’s Mentor-Fellow program for those interested in careers in art production and administration.