Barbie is to receive a dramatic makeover in 2016, toy company Mattel has revealed, as a new range includes three optional body shapes – petite, tall and curvy – as well as seven different skin tones and 24 hair styles.

"We’re exploding a system that’s been in place for 56 years and a heritage that’s been passed down from generation to generation." Kim Culmone, vice-president for Barbie design