Barbie goes Ndebele

According to her creator, Shudu Gram was inspired by the Princess of South Africa Barbie doll, released in 2002 as part of Mattel’s Dolls of the World collection. The doll’s product description says she “proudly wears a traditional Ndebele-inspired dress. Its black and white patterning is topped with a colorful ngurara (intricately decorated blanket) cape. In Ndebele culture, tight-fitting neck rings are considered the most attractive and essential accessories. She wears golden-coloured leg and neck rings called izixolwana. A golden and red headpiece and hoop earrings give her regal beauty. Finally, she carries her own dancing mace to carry on her heritage”