A look at the original fashionista through the ages.

With the release of Barbie the movie, we thought it’d be fitting to pay tribute to the iconic fashion figure since her introduction in the 1950s.

1950s: Barbie made her debut in 1959 with her first fashion line, showcasing the style of the time. She wore glamorous and feminine outfits, including evening gowns, pencil skirts, and tailored suits, inspired by the fashion trends of the 50s.

1960s: The swinging 60s brought mod fashion to the forefront, and Barbie embraced the trend with bold and colourful outfits. She sported miniskirts, go-go boots, and vibrant patterns, capturing the spirit of the youth-oriented fashion of the decade.

1970s: Barbie’s fashion reflected the disco era. She wore bell-bottom pants, platform shoes, and funky prints. Barbie also embraced the bohemian style with maxi dresses, floppy hats, and fringe detailing, inspired by the fashion of the hippie movement. This was the decade Malibu Barbie was introduced, bringing Californian sunshine vibes.

1980s: The 80s were known for their bold and exaggerated fashion, and Barbie’s style followed suit. She rocked shoulder pads, brightly coloured leggings, big hair, and neon accessories. Barbie also embraced fitness fashion with her ‘Barbie and the Rockers’ line, featuring colourful workout ensembles.

1990s: The fashion of the 1990s was marked by a more casual and grunge-inspired aesthetic. Barbie’s outfits included denim overalls, flannel shirts, and combat boots. She also embraced the girl power movement with her ‘Totally Hair Barbie’, sporting long, crimped hair and vibrant outfits.

2000s: As the new millennium arrived, Barbie’s fashion became more diverse and trendier. She reflected the rise of pop culture and celebrity influences, often showcasing outfits inspired by famous singers, actors, and fashion designers. Barbie also ventured into various careers, such as astronaut, doctor, and teacher, with fashion to match each role.

2010s onwards: In recent years, Barbie has become more inclusive, introducing dolls with diverse body types, skin tones, and hairstyles. Her fashion expanded to include more contemporary trends, such as athleisure wear, street style, and sustainable fashion.

Barbie’s collaboration with iconic fashion designers

Through collaborations with real-life fashion designers, Barbie has showcased various high fashion looks and inspired girls to pursue their own fashion dreams.

Christian Dior: In 1997, Barbie collaborated with the iconic fashion house Christian Dior. The partnership resulted in a series of dolls dressed in exquisite miniature versions of Dior’s famous couture designs, complete with intricate details and luxurious fabrics.

Vera Wang: Barbie teamed up with renowned bridal fashion designer Vera Wang in 2011 to create a collection of Barbie dolls inspired by Wang’s signature bridal gowns.

Oscar de la Renta: In 2016, Barbie joined forces with the legendary fashion designer Oscar de la Renta to produce a series of Barbie dolls dressed in stunning evening gowns and cocktail dresses that reflected de la Renta’s exquisite craftsmanship and sophisticated style.  

Karl Lagerfeld: Barbie paid tribute to the late fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld in 2014 with a doll designed to resemble the legendary designer. The doll wore a tailored black suit, fingerless gloves, sunglasses, and a high-collared white shirt, capturing Lagerfeld’s iconic personal style.

Not only have these collaborations brought the world of high fashion to doll collectors, but it has showcased Barbie’s versatile style, from haute couture to ready-to-wear, and celebrated her timeless influence and presence in the fashion industry.