Happy Birthday, Barbie!

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Dior, 1997

This week (March 9, 2017), Barbie turns 58 years old. Here, a look at a few of the designers who were inspired to dress one of the world’s most famous fashionistas.

You wouldn’t know it from how she looks—flawless skin, thick lustrous hair, wasp waist, perky bosoms, a glamorous and youthful wardrobe and still wearing pointy-toed stilettoes.

While never showing the ravages of aging and the reality of getting old, the fashion doll that sold billions (one every three seconds in the world, according to Mattel, her makers) has been an inspiration for young girls to dream—and dream big.

Barbie has had more than 150 careers that included astronaut to running for president (an exhausting six times but never winning).  And last year, Mattel, the makers of this infamous blond leggy doll, announced Barbie will be available in a variety of body types: curvy, petite and tall. And in a further attempt at diversity, she will have 24 various hairstyles and hair colours and seven different skin tones to choose from.

In honour of her birthday, we take a look at a few of the designers who were inspired to dress one of the world’s most famous fashionistas.

Bill Blass, 1997

Bob Mackie, 2004

Armani, 2003

Versace, 2004

Donna Karan, 1995

 

Diane Von Furstenberg

photo: Paul Jordan stylist: Sheryl Fetrick

Vera Wang, 2008

Ralph Lauren, 1997

Escada, 1996

Karl Lagerfeld, 2014