Man bun Ken features in 15 new versions of doll

Ken, the long-term companion of Barbie, now sports a man bun in one of his latest reincarnations.

Fifteen new versions of the doll have been released in the UK featuring wide-ranging makeovers - including varying body sizes, skin tones and hairstyles.

Producer Mattel has labelled the newest roll-out the "most diverse line-up to date".

The Kens come in seven different skin tones, a range of eye and hair colours, nine hairstyles and modern fashion looks including the man bun and corn rows hairstyles.

Mattel's makeover of Ken, full name Ken Carson, follows a similar introduction of three new Barbie types - tall, curvy and petite - last year.

Ken's change of wardrobe forms part of the brand's bid to modernise and spread global appeal.

Mattel said the Barbie brand "has always reflected the times, so modernising Ken is the next step in the brand's evolution to offer more diverse products".

Lisa McKnight, senior vice president and general manager for the Barbie brand, said: "By continuing to expand our product line, we are redefining what a Barbie or Ken doll looks like to this generation.

"Evolving Ken was a natural evolution for the brand and allows girls to further personalise the role they want him to play in Barbie's world."

Ken first hit the shops in 1961 as Barbie's boyfriend, going on to experience some 40 occupations wearing, in his first two forms, red shorts and cork sandals.