The Design Museum in London is marking a significant milestone in pop culture with “Barbie: The Exhibition,” celebrating the 65th anniversary of the world’s most iconic doll. This extensive exhibition features over 180 renditions of Barbie, offering a comprehensive look at her evolution and how she has mirrored societal changes through her diverse looks, outfits, and career choices.
The Origins of Barbie
Barbie debuted on March 9, 1959, thanks to Ruth Handler, Mattel, Inc.’s co-founder. The inspiration for Barbie came from Handler’s observation of her daughter, Barbara, who enjoyed playing with paper dolls and imagining them in various adult roles. At that time, most dolls were baby dolls, limiting the scope of imaginative play. Handler saw an opportunity to create a doll that allowed girls to envision their futures and explore different roles.
Inspired by the German Bild Lilli doll, Handler envisioned an American counterpart. She named the doll “Barbie” after her daughter. Barbie’s first appearance at the American International Toy Fair in New York City was groundbreaking. The original Barbie sported a black-and-white striped swimsuit and a chic ponytail and was available as either a blonde or brunette. Her sophisticated and adult-like appearance radically departed from the norm, revolutionizing the toy industry.
The Evolution of Barbie
“Barbie. The Exhibition” showcases the doll’s remarkable transformation over the decades. From her beginnings as a fashion model to her myriad careers in fields like medicine, aviation, and politics, Barbie has always reflected women’s evolving aspirations and roles in society. The exhibition highlights key moments in Barbie’s history, including her first African American friend, Christie, introduced in 1968, and her first run as a presidential candidate in 1992.
The exhibition is organized into thematic sections that explore different aspects of Barbie’s identity and impact. Each section demonstrates how Barbie’s appearance, outfits, and career choices have evolved to align with societal changes and trends. Visitors can see Barbie as an astronaut in 1965, long before women were widely accepted in the field, and as a computer engineer in 2010, underscoring the doll’s role in breaking gender stereotypes and inspiring girls to pursue diverse careers.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Barbie’s immense popularity can be attributed to her adaptability and Mattel’s innovative marketing strategies. Television commercials, product tie-ins, and collaborations with top fashion designers have kept Barbie relevant and desirable across generations. Her ability to reinvent herself and stay current with trends has been a key factor in her enduring appeal.
The exhibition also addresses Barbie’s controversies and criticisms, including issues related to body image and diversity. In recent years, Mattel has made significant strides to address these concerns by introducing Barbie dolls with various body types, skin tones, and hairstyles, making her more inclusive and representative of the diverse world we live in today.
Rediscovering Barbie
“Barbie: The Exhibition” is more than a nostalgic trip down memory lane; it’s a celebration of a cultural icon who has inspired generations to dream big and believe in themselves. The Design Museum’s exhibition offers a unique opportunity to explore Barbie’s history and evolution, showcasing her impact on fashion, culture, and society.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to Barbie’s story, this exhibition promises a fascinating journey through six decades of history. Don’t miss seeing over 180 renditions of Barbie and witnessing how she has continually evolved to reflect the changing times.
If you have the opportunity, visit the Design Museum in London to experience “Barbie. The Exhibition”, which celebrates the legacy of a doll that has transcended generations and continues to inspire creativity and imagination in children and adults alike.
