Allice Johnson
- Aug 9, 2023
- 3 min read

ALL ABOUT BARBIE

Fascinating Barbie Facts That You Did Not Know

1. Barbie's Extensive Wardrobe: Barbie has one of the most extensive wardrobes in the toy world. Over the decades, she has been dressed in over 1 billion different outfits, ranging from glamorous evening gowns to casual everyday wear.

2. The "Solo in the Spotlight" Outfit: One of the most iconic Barbie outfits is the "Solo in the Spotlight" ensemble from 1960. The black, strapless mermaid-style dress, white gloves, and pink stole became an instant classic.

3. First Outfit: Barbie's first outfit was called the "Black and White Bathing Suit." This iconic swimsuit became one of the most recognisable Barbie fashion pieces.

* The iconic black and white bathing suit

4. Barbie's Full Name: Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts. She was named after Ruth Handler's daughter, Barbara.

5. Debut at Toy Fair: Barbie made her debut at the American International Toy Fair in New York City on March 9, 1959. She wore a black and white swimsuit and instantly became a sensation.

6. The First Barbie Fashion Show: In 1985, Mattel organized the first-ever Barbie fashion show in New York City, featuring real-life models dressed as Barbie in life-sized versions of her iconic outfits.

* Barbie fashion show

7. Global Sales: Barbie is sold in more than 150 countries worldwide, making her a truly global phenomenon. Barbie's highest annual sales were in 1992 when Mattel sold 1.5 million Barbie dolls in just one week during the holiday season. 8. Ken, Her Perfect Match: Barbie's long-time boyfriend and companion, Ken, was introduced two years after her debut in 1961. He is named after Ruth Handler's son, Kenneth.

9. Multiple Careers: Over the years, Barbie has explored more than 200 careers, ranging from astronaut to paleontologist to computer engineer. She has a very impressive CV! Barbie is a true role model for ambitious young minds. Olympic Athlete: In 1975, Barbie had her first career as an Olympic athlete. She became a gold medalist in gymnastics. Astronaut Barbie: In 1965, Barbie became an astronaut four years before Neil Armstrong's historic moon landing.

* Some of the Barbie careers

10. Barbie's Official Birthdate: Barbie's official birthday is March 9, 1959, the date she was first introduced at the American International Toy Fair.

11. Versatile Nationality: Barbie has been produced in more than 50 different nationalities, reflecting the diverse backgrounds of her fans worldwide.

12.First Barbie Movie: Barbie starred in her first animated movie, "Barbie and the Rockers: Out of This World," released in 1987. The newest movie is the Barbie Movie in 2023.

* Barbie movie 2023

13. Christian Dior: In 1995, Mattel collaborated with the House of Dior to create a limited-edition Barbie doll dressed in a beautiful Dior ensemble, complete with accessories and a miniature Dior shopping bag.

14. Ralph Lauren: In 1996 The all-American designer Ralph Lauren had the chance to dress Barbie in some of his branded classics. A double-breasted wool blazer and camel-coloured coat was both an elegant signature and a classic representative of the label.

15. Versace: In 2004 the renowned feminine allure of Versace was shrunken down for Barbie's size in this taupe gown with a lace bodice and chiffon ruffles. The doll itself has a striking resemblance to founder Gianni Versace's sister and muse Donatella.