Continuing on from recent improvements to Barbies based on criticism and popular opinion, American toy manufacturing company Mattel has released new US president and vice president dolls.

With the ongoing election frenzy, Mattel has made a strategic move by putting the focus on its all-female Barbie dolls, aiming "to inspire girls to become leaders". Interestingly, presidential Barbie dolls have been around since 1992, but this is the first time there has been an all-female ticket, which is a great stride forward.

(Read also: Mattel geeks out, introduces Game Developer Barbie)

"With just 39 percent of girls saying that they want to be a leader, President and Vice President Barbie will serve as an inspiration for girls to pursue their dreams and imagine what they can become," stated the company.

Mattel has been reviewing the unhealthy body image that Barbie dolls may have provided, thus producing dolls with new and different body shapes, hairstyles and skin tones. 

Sold for US$24.99, US President Barbie and US Vice President Barbie also stick to the theme of diversity in body shape, hair and skin. (jam/kes)