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Discover the History of Barbie Dolls

Discover the History of Barbie Dolls

Barbie dolls have evolved much over the years, from teen model to fashion maven to modern working woman—and ultimately, a worldwide collectible obsession.

The first Barbie doll

When Ruth Handler realized that her daughter preferred playing with paper dolls of grownups to paper dolls of children, she developed the Barbie doll. Handler bought a Lilli doll while visiting Germany, then presented this doll to her daughter. Handler then bought the rights to distribute Lilli dolls in the U.S. and in 1959, at New York’s annual toy festival, Barbie was born.

The first Barbie doll sported a striped black and white bathing suit and a ponytail. Barbie debuted as a “teenage fashion model,” although her now famous proportions were not very teenage.

Barbie as fashion plate

Over the decades, Barbie’s wardrobe shifted with the fashion trends. Barbie wore fashions like Silver Flame and Fashion Luncheon. She joined the British Invasion around the time she acquired the Twist ‘N Turn waist.

Barbie established her trendy fashion flair when she modeled the full range of ‘70s styles, including the granny dress, a “California Girl” suntan, and daring disco glam. In 1977 Barbie became Superstar Barbie, when she got a wider smile and brighter eyes.

In the ‘90s Bob Mackie, Vera Wang, Nolan Miller, and others started designing fashions specifically for Barbie. A makeover by Bob Mackie rejuvenated Barbie with updated makeup, more prominent lips, and a youthful lift to the face with Neptune Fantasy Barbie.

Barbie collections

By the ‘80s, Barbie’s first fans had grown up. Now in their 20s and 30s, these fond fans collected Barbie. In recognition of her growing adult fan base, Mattel released Blue Rhapsody Barbie in 1986. It was Mattel’s first porcelain Barbie and the launch of a collector’s line.

For many, Barbie doll collecting has become a full-time passion. From Barbie fashions and Barbie furniture to vintage Barbie dolls and Collector or Limited Edition Barbie dolls, one thing is sure: Barbie collectors will never run out of inspiration, imagination, or options to fuel that passion on eBay.