Rethinking Representation—Published in Above the Law

I’m honored to share my article published in Above the Law, “Mattel’s ‘Phoenix’ Barbie Doll: It’s Just a Bun … So What?” In it, I examine how the new Phoenix Barbie—modeled after the fighter pilot from Top Gun: Maverick—elicits broader questions about representation, symbolism, and the meaningfulness (or lack thereof) of surface-level design choices.

“Mattel produced the doll as a representation of the woman fighter pilot, Phoenix, cast in the box office hit ‘Top Gun: Maverick.’” Excerpted from “Mattel’s ‘Phoenix’ Barbie Doll: It’s Just a Bun … So What?”, published in Above the Law on July 7, 2022.

👉 Read the full piece here

This piece explores how token gestures in design—like a hairstyle choice—can fall short without deeper intention. It’s a reflection on the power and limitations of symbolic representation and a reminder to look beyond appearances to real impact.