Barbie Gets A Tattoo

It's a tough world out there. Countless Americans are out of work. The national deficit is soaring. Kids in Africa are starving. All serious problems, no doubt. But there's one other thing that has at least a few people really upset. Yes, it's true, Barbie went out and got herself a tattoo.

Named the "Tokidoki Barbie", the classic doll is sporting tattoos that run up her left arm and onto her chest and neck. Although I've read that tattooed barbie is being marketed to adult collectors, it has still managed to ruffle the feathers of many conservative mothers. Their argument is that it sets a bad example.

Hot or not? You be the judge....

Ok, I get the argument to some degree but I'm not sure why so much is being made of this. After all, countless Americans have tattoos. They are so mainstream, it's a challenge to find someone without one. So, if Barbie wants to get a tramp stamp, is it really that big of a deal? And if you don't want your daughter to have one, simply don't buy it. (By the way, I understand that these dolls come with a $50 price tag. Ouch!)

There was a time when tattoos had a negative stigma attached to them. But nowadays, they are so common that, unless you have "Thug Life" inked across your forehead, you're unlikely to even raise an eyebrow.

Several years ago, I got some pressure to get a tattoo. But I chose instead to express my individuality by remaining inkless. I'm one of probably a handful of people south of the Mason-Dixon line who hasn't been inked, pierced, implanted, branded or bleached yet. That's gotta qualify me for some kind of federal minority status!

Getting back to the point, I can't help but wonder if there will be other variations of Barbie to reflect the progressive image of modern day society. Perhaps they might even be a bit more risque and controversial. If Mattell is looking for any ideas, here are a few that immediately come to mind:

• Crystal Meth Barbie - optional dentures and cigarettes available
• Butch Barbie - complete with Jeep and flannel shirt assortment
• Occupy Wall-Street Barbie (limited edition) - optional tent and personal hygiene kit available
• Ghetto Barbie - optional "Baby-Daddy" Ken available
• Muffin-Top Barbie - comes with stretch jeans and tube top
• Transgender Barbie - easily converts into Ken
• Botox Barbie - comes with syringe and year supply of collagen

Hey, you all laugh but I might be onto something here. If the tattooed Barbie makes a profit, there's no telling what might come next. So, if any of my ideas come to market, I want credit.....

kw