Barbie to Appear in SI Swimsuit Issue as Toy Brand Struggles

Putting Barbie in Sports Illustrated’s annual swimsuit issue is Mattel Inc.’s latest attempt to generate conversation about the 11.5-inch icon and reverse falling Barbie brand sales.

Mattel said yesterday that Barbie, 54, will join the ranks of Tyra Banks, Christie Brinkley and Rachel Hunter in the magazine’s 50th anniversary swimsuit issue, which goes on sale Feb. 18. Barbie will appear in a version of the black-and-white bathing suit she wore on her 1959 debut, the company said. The Time Inc. magazine and toymaker also rolled out an advertising campaign with the tagline “unapologetic.”