At this year's New York International Toy Fair, the Tonner Doll Company revealed the 'Jazz' doll, the first-ever doll based on a transgender teen.
Jazz Jennings is a 16-year-old American who is a YouTuber, spokesmodel, television personality, LGBTQ rights activist and an honorary co-founder of the Transkids Purple Rainbow Foundation. As she says: "I consider myself to just be a normal, teenage girl so... the doll is just a normal girl doll." In the past, she also co-wrote a picture book for children called 'I Am Jazz,' which also helps to spread an important message about acceptance.
The Tonner Doll Company is responsible for creating some of the world's most iconic fashion dolls, which have been dressed by legendary designers like Marc Jacobs, Oscar de la Renta and Betsey Johnson. The 18" Jazz doll will be available for purchase from the Tonner Doll Company as of summer 2017.
Transgender Doll Toys
The Tonner Doll Company's 'Jazz' Doll is Based Off of Jazz Jennings
Trend Themes
1. Transgender-friendly Dolls - Creating dolls that represent diverse gender identities, such as transgender teens, to promote inclusivity in toy industry.
2. Youth Representation in Toys - Designing dolls based on influential youth figures, like Jazz Jennings, to empower and inspire children through play.
3. Socially Conscious Toys - Developing toys that promote acceptance, diversity, and social awareness to encourage positive values in young consumers.
Industry Implications
1. Toy Manufacturing - Toy companies have the opportunity to redefine traditional gender norms and introduce more inclusive and diverse doll options.
2. Fashion Design - Collaborating with doll companies to create fashionable outfits for dolls that represent diverse gender identities.
3. Children's Books - Publishing more inclusive and educational books that embrace diverse gender identities, like 'I Am Jazz', to promote acceptance and understanding.