1 – Barbie Ponytail #5 (1960)

The first Barbie was released in 1959. Until now, dolls had been used for mothering games but with Barbie this changes, Barbie is a mannequin that can be transformed in something different every time you play with it. With Barbie, children begin to dream and imagine themselves in a wide variety of roles: teacher, nurse, model, dancer, painter—with no limits to the imagination. The one presented here belongs to the 5th series and comes complete with original clothing and accessories. The 5th series differs from the first in its updated materials and slightly less heavy makeup, however, nothing changes in the outfit, accessories, or hairstyle. Barbie was originally created as a mannequin doll; she was provided with a swimsuit, a pair of sandals, and a pair of glasses, while clothes were bought separately or handmade for almost endless play.

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2 – Barbie Malibu (1971)

Times change, and in the 1970s, the tan was in fashion; the face changed, becoming more modern. This is the first tanned Barbie with a swimsuit and accessories, returning from a day at the beach. We’re still talking about mannequin-style Barbies with a single outfit and a few accessories, with additional clothes sold separately; what makes this one special is that it’s the first Barbie with bendable knees. There is also a European version without a tan and with more reddish hair.

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3 – Gold Medal Barbie (1974)

Known in Italy as the Olympic Barbie, there are at least two versions: the American one shown here and the European one with an orange, yellow, and blue swimsuit.

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4 – Ballerina Barbie (1975)

This is the first Barbie with a specific concept. Although she can still be used as a mannequin, she has a fixed crown on her head that cannot be removed; she is designed to be a ballerina, not anything else. She was built with special mechanisms that ensure that if you hold the crown between the index and middle fingers of one hand and spin her like a spinning top while she pivots on one leg, the other leg automatically lifts, creating a pirouette. Her face changes again, borrowing that of Steffie, Barbie’s friend born in 1972.

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5 – Ballerina Cara (1975)

This is the black version of the Barbie Ballerina with a pink tutu; with respect to the white Ballerina, the face of Barbie Cara Quick Curl, born in 1974, was used for this doll.

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6 – Christie Superstar (1977)

The years go by and Barbie gets another facelift, this time inspired by the face of actress Farrah Fawcett who played Jill Munroe in the series “Charlie’s Angels” and a new body. In the fashion world, the era of supermodels began, and Barbie Superstar has bended arms that allow for model-like poses. In some versions, she is sold with a camera and a set where she can pose for the desired photo shoots.

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7 – Barbie Beauty Secrets (1979)

She is part of the Superstar series. The distinctive trait of this doll is a mechanism that, when a button on her back is pressed, allows her arms to perform movements such as brushing her hair, applying makeup, etc. The doll comes complete with a dress and accessories.

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8 – Barbie Angel Face (1982)

From the Superstar series. It takes its name from the famous “Angel Face” cosmetics line by Chesebrough Pond’s. The package includes a makeup set that could be used on both Barbie and children, a brush, a comb, two hairpins, and a headband.

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9 – Barbie and Ken Dream Glow (1985)

From the Superstar series. Sold separately, both Ken and Barbie are on display here. Their distinctive trait is the star-studded outfits and accessories; after being exposed to a light source, the stars glow in the dark once the light is turned off. The bedroom set was also sold separately, with wallpaper covered in the same stars present on the outfits.

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10 – Barbie Sparkle Eyes (1991)

From the Superstar series. The distinctive trait of this stunning Barbie is that two (plastic) crystals are set in her eyes which make her gaze sparkle when exposed to the right light.

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11 – Barbie Silkstone #1 (2000)

After an entire decade (the ’90s) during which Barbies were no longer conceived as versatile mannequins with endless possibilities but as a static concept, with clothes either painted directly onto the doll or even made of plastic that formed a single unit with the doll (impossible to remove), the concept of the mannequin made a comeback, and Barbie did it in style. A doll was created using a material as smooth as silk and as heavy as stone, which Mattel trademarked under the name Silkstone. Here, Barbie returns to her original face and look with long legs and straight arms. The outfits, sold separately or included depending on the version, are always removable and interchangeable and are masterpieces of tailoring. They feature little buttons, stockings, shoes, petticoats, bows, tulle, fine fabrics, handbags, glasses, and accessories with meticulous attention to detail; it almost feels as though you could actually wear them were it not for their size. The one you see here is the very first version.

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12 – Barbie Silkstone Lingerie #5 (2002) with Black Enchantment Dress (2001)

This is the first black Silkstone. Her original outfit, which is also on display in this exhibition, is a lingerie set featuring stockings, shoes, and a babydoll. Here, however, she is presented in the Black Enchantment dress (2001), with details that need no further explanation—it simply must be admired.

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13 – Barbie Silkstone Debut Blonde – 50th Anniversary original design by Robert Best (2009)

This Barbie is also part of the Silkstone series. It features Barbie’s first outfit, reimagined by a Mattel designer, the brilliant Robert Best.

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14 – Barbie Signature Looks Model #6 Blonde Made to Move (2021)

We return to the world of interchangeable outfits, even for standard collections that aren’t exclusively “collectible”. What makes this Barbie special is that she is fully articulated at all joints, allowing her to strike all sorts of poses, making her the ideal toy for whatever you fancy.

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15 – Barbie as Medusa (2008)

From the 2008 “Gold Label” collection. Designed by Linda Kyaw as the first piece in the “Greek Goddess” series. Inspired by Greek mythology, the doll reinterprets the mythological character with luxurious details, including snakes in her hair, a green corset, and a mermaid tail.

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16 – Barbie Children’s Collector Series

Hallmark series celebrating classic children’s stories featuring six Barbie dolls released between 1995 and 2000.

Inspired by the most beloved characters from children’s literature, particularly American literature and classic fairy tales, transforming Barbie into the heroines of these stories.

The entire collection is on display in this exhibition.

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17 – Barbie Scarlett O’Hara and Ken Rhett Butler Gone With the Wind (1994)

Mattel pays homage to classic cinema with these creations inspired by the famous film “Gone with the Wind.”

While there is only one version of Ken as Rhett Butler, there are four versions of Scarlett O’Hara:

• The famous dress worn at the barbecue at Twelve Oaks, on display in this exhibition.

• The black-and-white dress.

• The red dress.

• The even more famous green dress made from velvet curtains.

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18 – Barbie White Tiger (2003)

Launched in 2003, it certainly doesn’t go unnoticed. A rather imaginative take that sees Barbie embody a sensual cat woman complete with feline ears, a tiger-print catsuit, and a high-heeled shoe-shaped armchair.

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19 – Barbie Diamond Dazzle original design by Bob Mackie (1996)

A collectible Barbie designed by Bob Mackie and released as part of the Jewel Essence Collection.

She is as precious as the gemstone she is named after. A vision of sophistication in her magnificent gown. This collection celebrates the glamour and brilliance of jewellery, and each doll is adorned with beautiful Swarovski crystals. Here, Barbie is dressed in sumptuous black velvet and white satin with crystal rhinestones that sparkle like stars across the midnight sky.

Bob Mackie created 47 different dolls for Mattel. Mattel may have created Barbie, but Bob Mackie made her famous.

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20 – Barbie Festival of the World (2005-2006)

The collection, which is associated with the broader Dolls of the World collection, is a special collection launched by Mattel to celebrate the diverse traditions, festivals, and cultures from around the globe. Over the years, this line of collectible dolls has stood out for its attention to detail in traditional attire and its depiction of specific cultural celebrations.

This exhibition features all the seven Barbie dolls that compose the entire collection.

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21 – Barbie & Ken Star Trek Giftset (1996)

The 1996 Barbie and Ken Star Trek set celebrates the 30th anniversary of the Star Trek original series. Barbie and Ken in Starfleet uniforms with iconic accessories such as the tricorder, the phaser, and the famous communicators.

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22 – Star Trek Barbie & Ken (2009)

Mattel has created dolls based on the film directed by J.J. Abrams, which brought Star Trek back to the big screen. The collection includes three Pink Label dolls capturing the look of the protagonists: Captain James T. Kirk, First Officer Spock, and Lieutenant Uhura. The dolls wear the new uniforms from the J.J. Abrams universe and resemble the actors who portray them: Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, and Zoe Saldana, respectively.

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23 – Barbie as Empress Josephine (2005)

The Barbie Empress Josephine is the third Barbie doll of the prestigious Women of Royalty series.

The doll is inspired by Josephine de Beauharnais, first wife of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress of the French. The costume design is based on the famous painting of the coronation of Napoleon and Josephine in Notre Dame Cathedral.

She wears a non-removable empire-style dress provided in satin and embellished with gold trim and fringe. Over the dress, she wears a long train in deep red velvet, embroidered and lined with faux ermine fur.

She is adorned with faux pearl earrings, double-strand bracelets, a pearl and crystal necklace, and a silver tiara embellished with crystals, which replicates the imperial crown.

She features the “Mackie” face sculpt with sophisticated makeup and an updo with curls.

The doll is considered a high-value collectible (Gold Label) and was produced in a limited edition of fewer than 5,000 pieces worldwide.

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24 – Barbie as Queen Elizabeth I (2004)

She is part of the Women of Royalty collection and celebrates the 16th-century English monarch. The doll, inspired by historical portraits, features luxurious Tudor-style clothing. The rich fabric includes a structured corset, high collar, and gold and pearl embellishments, reflecting the Elizabethan style. It represents one of the most meticulously crafted depictions of royalty in Mattel’s history

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25 – Barbie as Agent Dana Scully & Ken as Agent Fox Mulder – The X-Files Giftset (1998)

On display here are two sets, both from 1998, one of which was recalled by Mattel. The reasons for the recall relate to an issue with the length of Scully’s hair, and the fact that the hair itself – or a piece of plastic used to hold it in place – posed a potential choking hazard to children, making the recall and subsequent re-release necessary.

Obviously, the recalled series is rarer.

There is a 25th Anniversary set (2018) featuring a pair of “Barbie Signature” dolls sold separately or in sets.

They depict the agents in their distinctive looks, including trench coats, FBI IDs, and specific accessories.

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26 – Ken as Merlin – The Magician Barbie as Morgan le Fay – The Enchantress (2000)

A sophisticated set produced by Mattel in 2000 that launched the Magic & Mystery Collection, portraying the legendary characters from the Arthurian cycle with an elaborate medieval design.

Morgana le Fay is portrayed as a sorceress, wearing a long, flowing burgundy and bronze dress with puffed sleeves and a matching cape. She is adorned with a gold chain with pendants at her hips and a gold headpiece with a veiled net.

Ken as Merlin the Wizard wears a royal blue panne velour tunic with a gold cord at the waist. His look includes long white hair, a curly white beard, and a pointed wizard’s hat. The set includes a long golden wand for Merlin and display stands.

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27 – Barbie & Ken as The Addams Family Giftset (2000)

They are part of the Collector Edition, celebrating the characters of Morticia and Gomez. The set was released in 2000, inspired by the classic 1964 television series. Barbie wears the characteristic long, form-fitting black gown with a train, typical of Morticia Addams, while Ken wears a dark pinstripe suit, typical of Gomez Addams’ style. This special edition was designed primarily for collectors, capturing the “dark” and gothic atmosphere of the original series.

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28 – Barbie & Ken as The Munsters Giftset (2001)

A renowned collector’s edition, the set reinterprets the famous lead couple from the cult sitcom of the 60s of the same name, Lily and Herman Munster. The set is known for its attention to detail in recreating the “spooky yet familiar” atmosphere of the famous television family.

Barbie embodies Lily Munster’s gothic elegance, with black hair featuring the classic white streak and slightly greenish skin. She wears a long light pink dress with wing-shaped details on the sleeves and a black bow at the waist. The look is completed by a bat-shaped necklace and black nails. Ken portrays the monstrous yet kind-hearted Herman. The doll has the character’s physical traits: a prominent forehead and eyebrows, a flat head, and bolts on his neck.

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29 – Barbie as I dream of Jeannie (2001)

The doll is modelled on the iconic 1960s television character played by Barbara Eden in the series “I Dream of Jeannie.” She wears the classic pink harem dress with chiffon details and rick rack trim and has the characteristic blonde ponytail and veil. The doll’s arms are appropriately sculpted to reproduce Jeannie’s classic crossed-arm pose.

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30 – Barbie as Bewitched (2001)

This Barbie pays homage to the star of the famous 1960s sitcom, Samantha Stephens, played by Elizabeth Montgomery. There are primarily two versions. The first one shown here dated 2001 (Collector Edition) is part of the “Barbie Loves Pop Culture” collection, while the other version is a 2010 Pink Label. The doll wears a reproduction of the black dress seen in the series’ animated opening sequence, complete with a red-trimmed cape, a wide-brimmed witch’s hat, and high-heeled shoes. The 2010 version has a vintage-style face to evoke the 1960s and includes the protagonist’s signature broom.

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31 – Barbie as Shrek (2004)

The Shrek Barbie Doll was produced by Mattel in 2004 to celebrate the release of the movie Shrek 2. Her look is inspired by the world of Shrek. She wears a stylish outfit that echoes the colours of the film. She is provided with long braids and wears a headband with small green ogre ears, the like of which can be found on Shrek and Fiona. It includes a themed backpack and a collectible keychain. This is therefore not a green ogre Fiona doll, but a Barbie dressed in “Shrek-style” fashion.

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32 – Barbie Summer Daydreams (1997)

The Summer Daydreams Barbie is the third doll in Mattel’s Coca-Cola Fashion Classic Series collection. Although part of a series that began in 1996 with the Soda Fountain Sweetheart, this specific model was released between 1997 and 1998. The design is based on a “Coca-Cola Lady” from a 1913 advertising calendar, and she wears a white pleated dress with pearl buttons, trimmed with red satin ribbons and a lace-edged petticoat. The look is completed by a white straw hat with red roses, a parasol, a replica of a 1913 Coca-Cola tray, and a glass bottle with a striped straw.

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33 – Barbie Celebrating Forty Years of Dreams (1999)

A limited edition with deep symbolic meaning tied to Barbie’s philosophy: “You can be anything you want.” A golden bumblebee-shaped pin is pinned to the doll’s shoulders. The choice is not random: according to a well-known legend about the physics of flight, the laws of aerodynamics dictate that a bumblebee shouldn’t be able to fly—yet it does. For Mattel, this insect represents overcoming obstacles and the ability to achieve seemingly impossible dreams. The dress is aquamarine and this colour has been chosen because it is the birthstone for Barbie’s birth month (March 1959). It is a limited edition produced in only 20,000 units worldwide.

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34 – Barbie Victorian Lady (1995)

A piece that is part of the “Great Eras Collection,” designed to celebrate different historical eras through fashion, and the Victorian Lady is number 8 in the collection. The doll is inspired by 19th-century elegance, in particular the era of Charles Dickens, with the aim of conveying the sophistication and social status typical of the Victorian period. The packaging itself is distinctive: it is designed to look like a book, complete with a “cover” and volume number, emphasizing the educational and historical value of the series.

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35 – Barbie Victorian Tea (2002)

A special collector’s edition, originally released as an Avon exclusive, celebrating the elegance of the Victorian era with a complete set dedicated to the ritual of afternoon tea. She wears a flowing white satin dress with a digital print of pink roses and small bows on the sleeves. The look is completed by a straw hat decorated with ribbons and roses, white court shoes, and pearl earrings. Although the most common version is the Caucasian one with blonde hair and blue eyes, there are also African-American and Hispanic versions. The set is rich in detail and comprises a tray, a teapot, a sugar bowl, a milk jug, two cups with saucers, and two teaspoons. It also includes a brush and a display stand. The doll is approximately 29 cm (11.5 inches) tall and has six points of articulation, including knees that bend with a “click-bend” mechanism. She is packaged in a special box with a sliding lid that allows you to see both the doll and the tea set.

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36 – Victorian Barbie with Cedric bear (1999)

This edition celebrates the elegance of the Victorian era through a sophisticated look designed for bedtime. In fact, Barbie wears a mauve charmeuse nightgown and a burgundy robe embellished with ribbons, rosettes, and lace. Barbie’s companion is a small bear measuring about 6–7 cm (2.4–2.8 in), fully articulated and provided with a matching night cap. In addition to the classic version with curly brown hair, there is a limited edition of just 1,500 pieces with blonde hair.

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37 – Barbie Harpist Angel (1998)

The first doll in the prestigious “Angels of Music Collection” series. This collectible Barbie features a periwinkle blue empire-style dress with a golden satin skirt, large white feathered wings, and a flower crown. Its highlight is her golden harp with detailed strings. She is available in both Caucasian and African-American versions.

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38 – Barbie Heartstring Angel (1998)

The second doll in the famous Angels of Music Collection series. The doll is depicted playing the violin, with an instrument and a bow included in the package. She wears an elegant burgundy taffeta dress with a velvet bodice, complemented by a billowing cloud of pink and gold organza. She features marabou feather wings with gold accents and a band decorated with tiny embroidered rosettes. Although the most common version has brown hair and hazel eyes (using the Mackie face sculpt), blonde and African American versions also exist.

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39 – “The Artist” Collection (1990s) (Van Gogh – Renoir – Monet)

Barbie has celebrated the great masters of Impressionism and Post-Impressionism through various collectible editions, transforming their masterpieces into haute couture dresses.

“The Artist” Collection (1990s) (Van Gogh – Renoir – Monet)

Water Lily (1997) – Claude Monet: Inspired by the famous Water Lilies, she wears a ruffled dress that fades from blue to aqua green, decorated with fabric water lilies flowers.

Sunflower (1998) – Vincent van Gogh: Inspired by the Sunflowers series, she wears a bright yellow dress with petals surrounding the bodice and echoes the warm tones of the Dutch painter.

Reflections of Light (1999) – Pierre-Auguste Renoir: Inspired by Renoir’s luminous style and soft brushstrokes, this doll wears a sumptuous light blue and lavender dress with floral decorations reminiscent of Impressionist gardens.

In 2011, a more modern series was released, the Museum Collection, which also featured a collaboration with MoMA, where the design became more graphic and structured.

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40 – Barbie Enchanted Seasons Collection (1994-1996)

A limited edition from the mid-90s. Each doll represents the beauty and colours of a specific season through sumptuous, richly detailed dresses. The complete series comprises four models, each with its own seasonal charm:

– Snow Princess Barbie (Winter – 1994): Dressed in a sparkling white gown decorated with sequins and marabou feathers. There are two versions: one with blonde hair and a rarer one with brown hair.

– Spring Bouquet Barbie (Spring – 1995): Features a pastel floral dress with an iridescent mint green petticoat. She comes with a large pink hat and a rattan flower basket.

– Summer Splendor Barbie (Summer – 1996): Wears a fresh yellow-and-white checkered dress with a sparkling overskirt. Her look is completed by a parasol and a hat decorated with daisies and strawberries.

– Autumn Glory Barbie (Autumn – 1996): She embodies the warm colours of autumn with a dress in shades of amber, red, and gold, embellished with details reminiscent of falling leaves.

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41 – Barbie Angel of Joy (1998)

This Barbie is the first doll in the Timeless Sentiments collection. This collectible edition is renowned for its ethereal style and refined details characteristic of the fantasy lines of the late 90s. She wears a sumptuous ivory jacquard dress with a round neckline. The balloon skirt is draped over an aqua green petticoat, while the chiffon sleeves end in wide bell-shaped cuffs. The outfit is completed by majestic pleated golden wings and a golden crown (or halo). The bodice is embellished with a flower-shaped appliqué and delicate embroidery. She was produced in both Caucasian and African-American versions.

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42 – Barbie Grand Entrance 2000

Barbie’s Grand Entrance collection, launched in the early 2000s, was created to celebrate the world of collecting with haute couture dresses designed by renowned Mattel designers.

Barbie Grand Entrance 2000 (The first of the collection)

Designed by Carter Bryant, this doll launched the collection with a regal and sophisticated look.

A sumptuous steel-blue taffeta gown with a fitted bodice and a wide, poofy skirt.

The petticoat is made of powder-pink satin and ivory/pale pink tulle.

At the waist, it has delicate powder pink roses that echo the long matching gloves.

It includes rhinestone and faux pearl earrings, pink court shoes, a pedestal, a certificate of authenticity, and a special “Collector’s Guide.”

In addition to the classic blonde version, an African-American version was also produced.

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43 – Barbie Grand Entrance 2001 (The second of the collection)

The second edition was entrusted to designer Sharon Zuckerman, who opted for a more romantic and ethereal style.

A two-piece ensemble in shades of shell pink and coral.

The bodice is decorated with small appliqué flowers that cascade down the wide, flowing skirt.

She has long, flowing hair (some variants have red or brown hair depending on the version) and wears a pendant necklace that matches her earrings.

An African-American version also exists for this doll, wearing a peach-coloured dress with orange gloves.

Fun fact: Although they are often identified by their release year, the production date printed on the box of the first edition is often 2000, even though the official release in catalogues took place in early 2001.

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44 – Barbie Partytime (1977)

This is a vintage edition particularly sought after by collectors, originally released for the European and Canadian markets between 1977 and 1979.

This doll is known for having different face and body versions depending on the country of production.

For the face, there are versions with the classic TNT (Twist ‘N Turn) face sculpt and rarer versions with Steffie face, characterized by applied eyelashes in some cases.

The original 1977 outfit consists of a silver and gold bodice paired with a red skirt with overlayed gold lace and matching red shoes.

The dolls were primarily produced in Korea (for the TNT face sculpt) or in the Philippines (for the Steffie face).

Series and Versions:

Skipper Partytime: Along with Barbie, a “Partytime” version was released during the same period for her younger sister Skipper.

Evolution 1978: There is a later 1978 version with a more “countryside” dress: a red bodice and black skirt with colourful flowers.

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45 – Barbie Winter Evening (1998)

The 1998 Winter Evening Barbie is a special edition produced by Mattel that captures the winter elegance of the late 1990s.

Characterized by a luxurious and sparkling look, she has become a very common yet beloved piece in vintage collections.

Barbie wears a long skirt in glittery white brocade paired with a wrap jacket.

The jacket is finished with an elegant collar and cuffs in beige faux fur.

The look is completed by a beige faux fur hat, gold stud earrings, and a ring.

A special detail: on her wrist, she wears a gold snowflake charm, which can be removed and hung as a Christmas ornament.

Although the most common version is the blonde one with blue eyes, there is also a brunette/auburn (between red and brown) version with blue eyes.

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Barbie Astronaut (1986)

The Astronaut Barbie has a legendary history: she “traveled” into space for the first time in 1965 in the Miss Astronaut outfit, four years before the first man landed on the Moon.

Since then, Mattel has released several versions to inspire girls toward STEM careers (an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

 

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The 1986 version, often associated with the 1985 copyright, is one of the most iconic and “fashionable” versions of the Mattel doll, characterized by a purely 1980s aesthetic. With a “Space Disco” outfit, the spacesuit isn’t realistic but is made of hot pink and silver metallic fabric. It has “butterfly” puff sleeves and matching wide-leg trousers. A distinctive trait was the possibility to change her look. Barbie could switch from the astronaut suit to a more elegant outfit by replacing the trousers with a pleated (or peplum) skirt over silver leggings. The face uses the classic 1980s Superstar face sculpt, with bold makeup featuring light blue or turquoise eyeshadow. Her hair is blonde, long, and very voluminous. Her gear includes a removable white space helmet with a transparent visor and pink knee-high boots. A small computer, a briefcase, space maps, and an astronaut certificate complete this Barbie, along with a flag featuring the Barbie logo of the era and a brush.

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In addition to the classic Caucasian version, Mattel also produced an African-American version (Christie) and one with a Hispanic face sculpt. The campaign slogan was “We girls can do anything”, adapted to encourage girls to pursue careers in the science and space field.

There are commemorative reissues:

The 1994 Astronaut Barbie (Special Edition, part of The Career Collection) was launched by Mattel to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. It is considered one of the most realistic versions ever produced, directly inspired by actual NASA spacesuits from the 1960s and 1970s.

Miss Astronaut (2019/2024): A reproduction of the first 1965 Astronaut Barbie featuring the iconic silver suit.

65th Anniversary (2024): A modern version with a white suit and accessories such as a rover, laptop, and space snacks.

Not to mention the Barbie dedicated to Samantha Cristoforetti in 2021.

She has the Italian astronaut’s facial features, short dark hair, and a realistic space suit with the ESA logo.

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Barbie Scooby-Doo (2002)

The collaboration between Barbie and Scooby-Doo has led over time to the creation of several series of collectible dolls, mainly in the early 2000s to celebrate the live-action films and the classic cartoon.

The highlight of the collection is the “Daphne” Barbie, often dated 2001 on the box but officially distributed between 2001 and 2002.

The doll captures Daphne Blake’s iconic look and comes with a lot of detective-themed accessories.

She wears a pink pinafore dress with a matching short jacket, pink knee-high boots, and the classic yellow-green (chartreuse) foulard. Included accessories are a pink handbag, sun glasses, a flashlight, a camera, a pink laptop, a notebook, and a magnifying glass.

Each package includes a small Scooby-Doo plush (about 6 inches) and a box of “Scooby Snacks.”

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In addition to Daphne, the series produced by Mattel comprised the other members of the gang, with different body sculpts to match the original proportions:

Velma: Uses Skipper’s body (shorter than Barbie’s), she wears the classic orange sweater and knee-high socks.

Shaggy: Provided with Ken’s body, complete with a goatee, an oversized green sweater, and bell-bottomed trousers.

Fred: Another Ken model, with a stockier build and his typical sporty look.

In the Movie Special Editions: Mattel released specific dolls based on Sarah Michelle Gellar’s (Daphne) looks in the films Scooby-Doo (2002) and Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed (2004).

In 2000, a rare Warner Bros. Parks exclusive edition was released, depicting Barbie as herself in a Scooby-Doo-themed adventure.

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Barbie Toy Story (1999)

Barbie is a recurring character in the Toy Story universe and she was voiced (in the original language) by Jodi Benson. Pixar wanted Barbie to feature in their very first film back in 1995, but Mattel refused permission, fearing a flop. Only after the enormous success of the original film did Mattel grant the use of the brand for the sequels.

In Toy Story 2 (1999), Barbie made her official debut in the saga as the memorable character Barbie Tour Guide. She appears in the Al’s Toy Barn store, where she welcomes Rex, Hamm, Slinky, and Mr. Potato aboard a toy car and tells the group: “Keep your hands, arms, and accessories inside the car and please don’t take pictures with flash, thank you!”.

During the tour, she mentions that retailers hadn’t ordered enough Buzz Lightyear in 1995 to meet demand, a real-life reference to the unexpected success of the first film.

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The physical version of the doll called Tour Guide Barbie (Special Edition1999) wears a light blue satin dress with a pink belt and a matching hat. The original packaging included small finger puppets of Woody, Buzz, and Hamm.

Her most iconic look in the series, seen in the third instalment, is based on the 1983 Great Shape Barbie doll, featuring a blue spandex tracksuit, striped leg warmers, and pink shoes.

In the finale of Toy Story 3, Barbie and Ken become the new leaders of Sunnyside, transforming it into a happy paradise for all the toys.

Barbie of the World – Norway:

The Barbie Dolls of the World collection is one of the longest-running and most beloved Barbie collectible series, launched by Mattel in 1980. The series comprises approximately 91 dolls (according to some sources, up to 126 pieces in total, including sets) representing different nations through traditional clothing, ethnic details, and distinctive accessories. Here we see the Norway edition, originally released in 1995 (with large-scale distribution in 1996), which celebrates Norwegian traditions through its traditional attire. Barbie wears the traditional blue lace-trimmed dress, known as a bunad, complemented by a white blouse with puffed sleeves. The square hat is coordinated with a printed handbag featuring silver decorations and a silver coin necklace typical of Norwegian folklore. She has classic Scandinavian features with long blonde hair tied into two lateral braids and blue eyes. There are two versions of the dress: a light blue version with red flowers (more common) and a navy-blue version with pink flowers.

Barbie Marzipan in the Nutcracker:

A collectible edition from the Classic Ballet Series. She is inspired by the Dance of the Reed Flutes (also known as “Les Mirlitons” dance) from Tchaikovsky’s original ballet. The doll has legs appropriately shaped to mimic the “en pointe” positions of ballet. She wears a ballerina costume in shades of pink and mint green, with layers of glittery tulle.

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53 – Barbie Holidays (1990)

This is the most famous and longest-running collectible series produced by Mattel, launched in 1988.

Created to celebrate Christmas, it has become a regular event for collectors and enthusiasts over the years, characterized by sumptuous dresses, elaborate hairstyles, and special packaging designed for display.

The series marked the birth of the adult collector’s market.

The original 1988 doll wears a red tulle dress with a large white bow and is now one of the most sought-after pieces. In the 1990s, the collection introduced multiethnic versions; in fact, the first African-American Barbie in the series was just released in 1990.

In 2023, for the 35th Anniversary, Barbie wears a sparkling gold dress with star details to celebrate the collections’ milestone, while the 2016 version is known for its unusual and much-loved turquoise dress, which deviates from the classic red and gold.

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Barbie Dream Furniture (Furniture and Accessories) (1975-1978)

The Barbie Dream Furniture series comprises furniture sets produced by Mattel from the late 1970s onwards, which have now become iconic pieces for collectors.

Originally designed to complement the famous Dreamhouse, this series stands out for its sophisticated style and realistic details.

In the Vintage Collection, pieces from the original ‘Dream Furniture Collection’ (circa 1977–1982) are made of hard plastic, often in shades of pink, ochre yellow or brown, typical of the design of the era.

Among the most sought-after by collectors are the 1977 Closet Armoire Wardrobe with mirror and drawers, the Dining Table with sideboard and the Desk with stool.

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Many sets included small accessories such as plates, flower vases, ornamental birds and alarm clocks.

These items are often found on various platforms and their value increases if the original box and all the small components are present.

Today, the concept of ‘Dream Furniture’ has evolved into more technological and transformable playsets; in fact, in current versions, some pieces of furniture have a dual function, such as the sofa that becomes a bunk bed or the coffee table that becomes a cot for Chelsea.

Modern furniture, such as the oven or fridge, is often equipped with battery-operated lights and sounds, and a very popular modern version is the wardrobe that opens up to 60–90 cm (24–35 in) wide, containing over 25–44 accessories and various play areas such as a desk or a make-up station.

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56 – Kelly as Little Red Riding Hood (2001)

The Kelly Little Red Riding Hood doll is part of the Collector Edition: Storybook Favourites line released in 2001.

This collectable set includes the Kelly doll (Barbie’s younger sister) dressed as Little Red Riding Hood and a soft toy of the Big Bad Wolf disguised as Grandma.

The Kelly doll is approximately 10–15 cm tall, has blue eyes, brown hair and wears brown shoes.

The Wolf is a soft plush toy with a bushy tail, wearing a pink and white bonnet trimmed with lace.

A small plastic basket containing red apples to give to Grandma is included.

The original packaging features the classic fairy tale adapted for the toy range on the back: Little Red Riding Hood (played by Kelly, wearing a blue and white checked dress and her iconic red hooded cape) walks through the woods to take a basket of sweet apples to her sick Grandma.

At Grandma’s house, the wolf disguises himself in her nightdress, pink bonnet and spectacles.

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57 – Christie Superstar (1977)

Christie was introduced by Mattel in 1968 and is historically recognised as the first Black doll in the Barbie universe.

Her debut marked a cultural milestone for the inclusion and representation of African-Americans in the world of toys.

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58 – Cara Ballerina (1975)

Cara is a vintage character from the Mattel line, introduced in 1975 as Barbie’s second African-American friend.

The doll is distinguished by her chocolate-coloured skin and her brown eyes and hair.

Mattel released the doll in just four historic vintage versions, which we see below.

Free Moving Cara (1975): Featuring a special mechanism in the back to allow the arms and torso to move naturally. Accompanied by her boyfriend Curtis.

Quick Curl Cara (1975): Characterised by hair containing metal strands that allowed for curly hairstyles to be created without heat.

Quick Curl Deluxe Cara (1976): An enhanced version of the Quick Curl with a more elegant dress and additional accessories.

And Cara Ballerina (1975) on display here: One of the versions most sought after by collectors, highly articulated to do ballet poses.