GENDERED: Critics Bash Sexist 'Girly' Legos!

A new line of Legos made especially for girls just doesn't stack up for critics who complain the Lego Friends' line is needlessly gender-biased, reports the LA Times. With bright colors, stylish clothes, and slim female figurines, Lego Friends is facing online petitions and strong words from the International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals.

The new Legos are "devoid of imagination and promote overt forms of sexism," complains the association, and send girls a message "that being pretty is more important than who you are or what you can do." The Denmark-based toy company, however, says it is only responding to customer demand. "We heard very clear requests from moms and girls for more details and interior building, a brighter color palette, a more realistic figure, role play opportunities and a story line that they would find interesting," says one Lego exec, who says that the Friends line was not just for girls. "We know that many girls love to build and play with the wide variety of Lego products already available."