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Vancouver artist Wendy Tsao's "Mighty Doll" project takes Bratz dolls -- the figures known for their garish makeup, high fashion and heels -- and turns them into women or girls she wants children to admire. This doll was remade into Malala, the Nobel-prize-winning teen activist. Courtesy Wendy Tsao
Here's what store-bought Bratz dolls look like. Pictured are "Snow Kissed" Jade, Cloe and Yasmin. Bratz has changed its formula recently to focus more on empowerment and staying plugged into technology, but the sassy clothing and makeup are still around. MGA Entertainment
Bratz has given its newer dolls aspirations like getting fit and exploring the world. The new Bratz motto: "It's good to be yourself; It's good to be Bratz." Here, "Study Abroad" Sasha takes a trip to the United Kingdom. MGA Entertainment
Bratz made its branding comeback in 2015 after a protracted legal battle with Mattel, the company that produces Barbie, over alleged theft of trade secrets. Even 56-year-old stalwart Barbie continues to strive for relevance in the changing doll market. Courtesy Mattel
This year, Mattel changed Barbie's feet on newer dolls to make the action figure less obligated to wear heels all the time. With her newly articulated ankles, Barbie can play sports like soccer. Courtesy Mattel
All the changes to traditional dolls are taking place amid a revolution in toy options targeted at girls. GoldieBlox is a mini-engineer who comes with raw materials for creative play. Courtesy GoldieBlox.com
The company behind GoldieBlox claims to make "toys for future inventors." From Bloxtown
Worried about her daughters expressing dislike for their own facial features, skin tone and hair, African-American mom Angelica Sweeting launched Naturally Perfect Dolls to help young girls of color see themselves in their toys. courtesy Angelica Sweeting
