Famous doll appears in Instagram post wearing a ‘Love Wins’ T-shirt that is a mini replica of ones designed for Pride

This article is more than 2 years old

This article is more than 2 years old

The campaign for same-sex marriage may be able to claim another high profile supporter: Barbie.

The famous doll appeared to come out in support of equal marriage in an Instagram post promoting a collaboration with fashion blogger, Aimee Song.

The post shows Barbie and a new “friend” – a doll version of Song – wearing matching T-shirts with the pro-marriage equality slogan “Love Wins” emblazoned across the front.

The shirts are mini replicas of ones Song released for Pride month, the proceeds of which go to a not-for-profit supporting LGBTQ youth.

The post drew a largely positive response from Instagram users, with many applauding Barbie’s willingness to take a public stance on a controversial issue. “Woah barbie did something cool for once”, said one user.

It has also led some to speculate that Barbie may be bisexual or queer. One user commented, “Such an inspiration! This goes to show that even femmes are bi!” and another said, “Barbie? MORE LIKE BAR-BI”.

Barbie manufacturer, Mattel did not commented on the doll’s sexuality but told the Guardian on Wednesday that Barbie was an “inclusive brand that celebrates diversity, kindness and acceptance”.

Mattel has increasingly aligned the Barbie brand with progressive causes.

In 2016 it released a range of Barbies with diverse hair, face and body types, saying it hoped to promote healthy and realistic self-image so that girls can “find a doll that speaks to them”.

Earlier this year the company released “Sheroes”, a range of dolls it says “recognises Sheroes – female heroes who inspire girls by breaking boundaries and expanding possibilities for women everywhere.” Among the “Sheroes” is film director Ava DuVernay; US gymnast Gabby Douglas; and fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, whose doll became the first Barbie to wear a hijab.

DuVerney’s doll – which had the dreadlocked director clad in her customary polo neck, jeans and trainers and sitting in her director’s chair – created such a demand that Mattel put it into production. It sold out online within minutes.