Barbie is a global phenomenon who loves pink

Barbie.

Of course, you know her!

You probably have some at home, too.

She was first introduced at the New York Toy Fair on March 9, 1959. At the time she wore a black and white striped swimsuit, and her hair was tied in a ponytail.

The first Barbie doll was sold for $3 (USD). Today the original Barbie doll can reach a value of $25,000 US dollars among collectors.

300,000 Barbies were sold the first year, but the craze grew year after year. In 2021 more than 86 million dolls were sold.

All this had a negative effect on the self-esteem of the young girls who compared themselves to her.

Therefore, in 2016, her manufacturer Mattel released the Fashionistas collection, which also offered dolls with more rounded figures as well as other shades of skin and hair.

Barbie has also become a fashion icon. Her clothes were designed by quite a few world-famous fashion designers, including Yves Saint Laurent and Dior.

To stay up-to-date with her fashion collection, follow @barbiestyle on Instagram.

Today Barbies are sold in 150 countries around the world. A special “Dolls of the World” series was also made, including dolls inspired by other cultures.

All Barbie enthusiasts should rush to the nearest cinema this summer – Barbie, of course, has her own movie, too!

Points to Consider

1. How many Barbies do you have?
2. What do you like most about her?
3. Do you also play with other dolls?

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The original version of this article was published on July 27^th.