changing the narrative 

Finding dolls that look like us, with rich melanin and textured hair, is a constant struggle. When Jodi Vernon, Founder and Creative Director of Clarkes Closet, went on a hunt for a doll that looked like her four-month-old daughter, she was left disappointed and heart broken by the lack of representation. We’ve all been there. But this mother decided it was time to change the narrative. 

“As a mother, I felt it was my responsibility to create dolls that looked like Clarke and other black children, had hair like there’s, and represented everything that was and is unique about them,” Vernon tells BLK Oceans. 

Today, Clarkes Closet is a UK based company offering handmade rag dolls and children’s accessories. Each doll is designed with the intent of bringing confidence, empowerment, self love, and self pride to its owner.  

“My dolls help children know that there is more than one narrative to be told,” says Vernon. “Black and brown toys help children understand their story because it mirrors their own. My goal is to change this one-sided market and to make black and brown dolls a normal inclusion in the world of play.”

In addition to dolls, Clarkes Closet offers bows, handbags, clothing, home decor, and more. All items are handmade to the highest quality, sourcing most, if not all, materials from local suppliers.

Follow Clarkes Closet on Instagram for more. 

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