Here's something for your inner 9-year-old to cheer about: The September issue of Italian Vogue is devoted to Barbies! From the images that have been released, many of of the featured dolls will be Black.

The Fashion Bomb reports that the magazine's editor-in-chief, Franca Sozzani said that,“Barbie has been an icon for whole generations which is why I really wanted to give a strong sign in step with the times, and dedicate [this] issue to Black Barbie," said Franca Sozzani, the magazine's editor-in-chief.

The foreign magazine is used to taking chances, though. Almost exactly a year ago they unveiled their Black issue to highlight the need for diversity in high fashion. It turned out to be a good move, as the publishers couldn't keep the magazine on shelves in Europe and America. 

We also hear that the makers of Barbie will be rolling out dolls with more Afro-centric features, as well. Looks like 2009 is shaping out to be a good year for the Black Barbie!

--Whitney Teal

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