In the summer of 2023, the cult doll not only conquered the big screen but also our hearts. And no wonder Barbie caused such a huge hype: she is diverse, independent and holds wonderful childhood memories for many of us. And yet, Barbie’s life wasn’t always as perfect and carefree as it seems. On the occasion of her birthday, we’re taking a little journey into Barbara Millicent Roberts’ past and what we can learn from her.
In 2023, actress Margot Robbie embodied Barbie in the cinema and showed the radiant image that we all still have of Barbie in our heads: silky blonde hair, bright blue eyes and always a smile on her lips! Top styled from head to toe and at home anywhere in the world. But Barbie’s life wasn’t always as perfect as it seemed.
Barbie turns 65 this year and she doesn’t have a single wrinkle on her face yet. Impressive! Because our childhood friend was trapped in her own skin for a long time. Barbie has always been able to be whatever she wanted – biologist, chef, mermaid or surfer girl. But she couldn’t always look the way she wanted. After all, for a long time there was only one clothing size for the icon. Visual diversity? At that time there was nothing, which meant a lot of stress and pressure for our Barbie.
Today it looks different. Barbie has managed to break out of the typical image – and finally be completely who she wants. Freckles, dark skin, slim, curvy, athletic, short, tall. In short: Barbie is completely normal, just like us. Each of us is different, just like each Barbie. Since 2016, Barbie has been available in different body sizes and shapes – in four body types, seven skin tones, 22 eye colors and 24 hairstyles. Since 2022, Barbie has also been available in a wheelchair or with a hearing aid. The doll is now considered the most diverse toy on the market – and of course each one wears a completely different outfit. Because here too, Barbie can do anything she likes today. And we like that.
Even though it took Barbie a long time (57 years to be exact) to fight her way out of the 90-60-90 constraints, she was still a power woman. Because even before women were even allowed to get a driving license, Barbie had her own car and before the first man was on the moon, Austonaut Barbie celebrated her own adventures in space. So she is not only a pioneer, but also a role model for many young girls and adult women.
Here’s what you didn’t know about Barbie
- Of course, Barbie isn’t just called Barbie. Her name is Barbara Millicent Roberts. Her last name was revealed on her Twitter account for International Siblings Day.
- Barbie has three siblings: Skipper, Shelly and Krissy.
- By the way, Ken’s last name is Carson. He and Barbie separated in 2004. But they have been a couple again since February 14, 2011.
- By the way: Ken has also gone through some changes. He now has a variety of body and skin types.
- In 65 years, Barbie has had more than 200 different jobs. So: everything is possible!