Purpose Toys is upending the Black one-sixth scale fashion doll and action figure game once again with the release of the FADE COLLECTION of “CULTURAL Action Figures.”

Like they did with the viral NATURALISTAS Natural Hair Fashion Dolls, Purpose Toys and CEO DeeDee Wright-Ward are ensuring that “Crown-bearing children” see themselves in the playthings that spark their creativity. As we know, accurate representation helps children build self-esteem and confidence, so the FADE COLLECTION shuns the molded hair and braids often featured on popular male dolls, in favor of the “tapered cuts” and “line-ups” often requested at Black barbershops the world over.

“Currently there is an over-representation of molded/non-textured ‘surfer hair,’ box braids on male characters, and sloppily rooted characters that fail to capture the ever-popular ‘taper’ and ‘line-ups’ prominently worn by men and kids within the Black community,” Wright-Ward said in a release.

“What FADE COLLECTION brings to market, as the world’s first and only line of ‘CULTURAL Action Figures’ to celebrate Black Barber Culture, is our signature combination of flocked, rooted, molded, and gradated (textured) Black male hairstyles, and attention to the nuances of line-ups and the all-important FADE,” she added. “Through FADE COLLECTION, we not only bring authenticity to toy shelves like never before, we also celebrate the camaraderie, the CULTURE, and the brotherhood that comes with the Black Barber experience. No more box braids for guys, sharpie-beards, plastic ‘surfer-hair’ or complete lack of CULTURAL representation over here! FADE COLLECTION is here to offer authentically styled Black male characters kids can relate to and be proud of.”

If you’re a toy enthusiast like me, then you know exactly which male fashion dolls Wright-Ward is referencing, and you should be just as excited for debut character Greg as I am, as a result. The 11.5-inch action figure sports “a short and neat haircut and traditional line-up (“curved” and “faded” at the temple)” and is expected to retail for $12.99 at Target when it’s released in October. The bearded and mustached Greg is stylish from head to toe with a casual Tee and pants look complete with a crossbody bag and fly kicks.

FADE COLLECTION Greg’s character story also celebrates Black barber culture, as his background highlights “education, entrepreneurship, and an overarching connection to community,” according to a release. Many Black children get their introduction to entrepreneurship through Black barbershops and hair salons. 

With the FADE COLLECTION, now your child’s action figure will have a fresh cut to match their perfect hair and yours.