A Look At The First Gender-Fluid Doll Inspired By Lady Gaga

Mattel, the iconic toy manufacturer, has made its first-ever gender-fluid doll, The Witch Weaver, as part of the Monster High collection. Designed by the celebrated British-American fashion designer Harris Reed, this creation reflects Reed's passion for self-expression and inclusivity.

Harris Reed: A Visionary in Fashion and Advocacy

Harris Reed, an iconic fashion designer and creative director, is known for working with global icons like Harry Styles and Troye Sivan. Beyond his contributions to haute couture, Reed identifies as gender-fluid, a term that refers to a gender identity that evolves over time and does not conform strictly to male or female categories. Currently using he/him pronouns, Reed leverages his platform to advocate for LGBTQ+ representation.

Collaborating with Mattel on The Witch Weaver marks a milestone in Reed’s career, a reflection of his childhood dreams and ongoing efforts to inspire the next generation.

The Witch Weaver: A Bold New Addition to Monster High

With fiery red hair, fangs, spiderweb tattoos, and a gothic-punk aesthetic, The Witch Weaver stands out in the Monster High lineup. This character embodies themes of transformation and self-discovery, values central to Reed’s personal and professional ethos.

Reed described the creation as deeply personal, sharing with Women’s Wear Daily, “My biggest dream as a designer and queer activist is about inspiring the next generation… kids can see a doll and find a bit of hope and curiosity.”

The Story Behind the Creation

The collaboration with Mattel was two and a half years in the making, according to Reed. He reflected on his childhood struggle to find a doll that resonated with his identity. “As a kid, I remember, like so, so many others, not being able to find a doll that I could see myself in,” Reed wrote on Instagram.

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Monster High dolls, known for their avant-garde, campy designs, provided a source of comfort and connection for Reed as a child. This connection inspired the design of The Witch Weaver, which incorporates Reed’s signature style and pays homage to his favorite Monster High doll from childhood: Lady Gaga.

A Symbol of Identity and Transformation

Reed envisions The Witch Weaver as more than just a toy—it’s a representation of identity, freedom, and advocacy. Clad in flared jeans, a harlequin blouse, and ornate gold and crystal accessories, the doll reflects Reed’s unique aesthetic.

“The Witch Weaver joins the extraordinary Monster High family and embodies that we should be allowed to discover who we are and transform and weave through our identities,” Reed stated.

Inspiring the Next Generation

Amid global challenges, Reed hopes the doll will empower young people to embrace their individuality. He emphasized the importance of representation, stating, “It’s so important that the next generation knows they can do anything they want, and more importantly, can be anything they want.”

The Witch Weaver is available for purchase from November 22, 2024. By bridging fashion, identity, and activism, Harris Reed and Mattel are setting a powerful precedent for empowering children through creative and diverse storytelling.