Get ready for Architect Barbie

What on earth? Yup, that’s what we said. Mattel Inc. has announced plans for Architect Barbie – “complete with hard hat and blueprints” to be the latest addition to the toymaker’s “Barbie I can be…” line of dolls. With the debut of Architect Barbie this summer, Mattel will spotlight architecture as its “Career of the Year” for the Barbie line. In addition to doing her part to build on Mattel’s revenue outlook, the company said Architect Barbie “hopes to educate and encourage girls to consider architecture when thinking about what their jobs could be as adults.”

“For more than 50 years Barbie has served as a reflection of fashion, culture and aspiration to girls of all ages,” said Mattel spokeswoman Michelle Chidoni. “Barbie inspires girls to try on different careers, encouraging them to play out their dreams and explore the world and all of its possibilities without ever having to leave home. “We believe role-playing with Barbie leads to real life opportunities, and are very proud to introduce I Can Be…Architect Barbie as our 2011 career of the year.”

Architect Barbie will wear a blue and pink dress depicting a city skyline. She also wears black boots and a short black jacket. She carries a pink or blue tube with blueprints over one shoulder. Mattel calls the outfit “symmetrically stylish with bold colors and clean lines.”

Barbie has more than 125 careers on her resume, and each year Mattel looks to expand that number with roles that are both “aspirational and culturally relevant.”

We’re looking forward to Painter Barbie.