activity set: Kenya Fashion 'N Hair Do's

Ethnic dolls had existed for some time, but major toy manufactures did not get into the business until the 1980s and 1990s. Mass marketing meant that Black dolls became more available and more affordable. Tyco introduced Kenya, a 13-inch doll that came in three different skin tones. The doll was advertised as “The Beautiful Hair-styling Doll.” Kenya’s curly hair turned straight when a special lotion was applied. When her hair was washed, it returned to a curly state. Tyco focused their marketing campaign on parents touting that “Kenya will give your little girl hours of hair styling fun. She can comb, curl, braid, and bead Kenya’s beautiful hair, just the way you do hers.”