And in the Beginning.................

The Barbie doll was invented in 1959 by Ruth Handler (co-founder of Mattel), whose own daughter was called Barbara. Barbie was introduced to the world at the American Toy Fair in New York City. Barbie was intended to be a Teen Age fashion doll, but because of her appearance, which was considered at the time to be slightly riske, she was given a rather cool reception at the Toy Fair. However, the consumer, had a different idea and Barbie skyrocketed into fame. Introduced two years later, Barbie's boyfriend, Ken was named after Ruth's son.

#1 Barbie

The first Barbie, had arched eyebrows and white irises. Her skin was a pale ivory colour. She had holes in her feet to accomodate her posing stand. Barbie came with either Blonde or Brunette hair. She wore a fashionable strapless, black and white zebra striped jersey swimsuit. On her feet were dainty black pumps. Barbie's sunglasses were white with blue lenses. Barbie also sported gold hoop earrings. Included with the doll was a catalogue of her fashions with Barbie's face on the front of it.

#2 Barbie

The second Barbie was identical to the first Barbie, except for two things. Her feet no longer had the holes in them and she now had a new stand. Again included with the doll was a catalogue of her fashions with Barbie's face on the front of it.

#3 Barbie

The third Barbie had another subtle change, her irises were no longer white. Barbie had blue eyes. Barbie no longer had the hoop earrings either, she had traded them in for a pair of classic pearl studs. Again included with the doll was a catalogue of her fashions with Barbie's face on the front of it.

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