Dolls

Even Barbie has become caught up in the pop culture craze. This collection features dolls that represent everything from soft drinks to motorcycles, music to sports.

Avon Exclusives- this collection starts off with Exotic Intrigue Barbie. She is beautiful in her gown done in burgundy and coral with gold trimmings. Avon Representative Barbie was designed entirely for Avon to in tribute Avon Representatives all over the world. Mrs. P.F.E. Albee Barbie was created to honor the very first Avon Representative.

Barbie Loves Pop Culture- the name of this collection really does speak for itself. All of the Barbie dolls in this collection represent some of the biggest pop culture fad’s we have ever seen.

Grease Barbie one and two are from the movie musical set in the remarkable fifties. Barbie is depicted as Sandy Olsson. One of the dolls comes in faux black leather and the other in a re-creation of the outfit worn in the “Tell Me More” song and dance number.

Barbie doll as Catwoman comes in a purple cat complete with a cape. Her sculpted hands are cat claws and she is wearing blacks gloves.  Finishing off this amazing doll is a purple and black mask with cat ears.

Next in this collection, is Barbie as Elle Woods from Legally Blonde 2: Red, White & Blonde. She comes dressed in pink with a complementing outfit for her dog.

Barbie as That Girl is a tribute to this much-loved character in television. The show’s opening montage inspired her delightful outfit.

The James Bond 007 Ken and Barbie Gift set has Ken as James Bond and Barbie as the Bond girl. Ken’s dark blue suit is a replica of the tuxedo worn by Bond and designed by Brioni. Ken, as Bond carries a briefcase, full of papers with his next assignment. Complete with her cell phone, Barbie as always is beautiful and makes an amazing Bond girl.

Starring Barbie in King Kong honors this classic film. Barbie comes wearing a gown that was influenced by the original costume work in the film’s final moments

Barbie as Samantha from Bewitched showcases Barbie wearing an imitation of the outfit Samantha wore during the show’s animated opening. The finishing touches were not forgotten with this doll. She comes with a black witch’s hat wrapped with a red band, a golden heart pendant, and a broom.

The Munsters Gift set shows Barbie and Ken, as you have never seen them before. Barbie as Lily Munster, has raven black hair with a blond streak and green skin. Ken as Herman has Herman’s monster look, with a protruding forehead and brow, flattop head and two bolts in his neck. His clothing is a fine imitation of Herman’s brown suit, charcoal sweater and gray boots.

Barbie is stunning as Jeannie from I Dream of Jeannie. Barbie is a genuine replica of this character from her costume to her Genie bottle.

The Addams Family Gift set recreates this famous television family with help from Barbie and Ken. In her black gown, flashy make-up and long black hair, Barbie is stunning as Morticia Addams. Ken as Gomez looks dapper in a suit with dark hair, moustache and sideburns. 

Barbie as Wonder Woman is a very genuine reproduction. From her costume to her accessories, Barbie looks just like the famous television star.

Barbie Loves Frankie Sinatra Gift set features Barbie as a 1940’s bobbysoxer holding a record in her hand. This set comes with a Frankie doll complete with his very own microphone.

Barbie Loves Elvis Gift set shows Barbie as an adoring fan. She even comes holding a picture of Elvis. An Elvis doll is included in this set complete with a guitar and microphone.

Barbie and Ken 30th Anniversary Star Trek Gift set is a must have for all fans of this show. Barbie is an Engineering Officer in her red uniform with black trim. Ken wears a gold jersey and emblem signifying that he is a Command Officer. Accessories such as a Phaser and communicators finish off their looks.

Coca-Cola Fashion Classic Series- combines the winning combination of coke and Barbie. Summer Daydreams Barbie, After the Walk Barbie and Soda Fountain Sweetheart Barbie make up this collection. All dressed in coca-cola fashions, they are both unique and nostalgic.

Pin-Up Girls Collection features three beautiful dolls, which include Lady Luck Barbie, Hula Honey Barbie and Way out West Barbie. Each depicts a different pin-up girl look with an old fashioned edge.

Ballroom Beauties Collection showcases Barbie in all her elegant glory. The two dolls in this collection are Moonlight Waltz Barbie and Midnight Waltz Barbie.

Barbie Loves Sports shows off Barbie’s love of the active life. There are a number of dolls in this collection and all wear wonderfully replicated outfits. In this collection, you can find: Ferrari Barbie, Bowling Champ Barbie, Scuderia Ferrari Barbie, Chicago Cubs Barbie, Los Angeles Dodgers Barbie, NASCAR Official Barbie, New York Yankees Barbie, and 50th Anniversary NASCAR Barbie.

Coca-Cola Barbie Series- in this collection, Barbie is a Majorette, Waitress, Cheerleader, and a Sweetheart. Ken doll and a replica of a soda fountain can also be found in this collection.

Barbie teams up with motorcycles in the Harley-Davidson Barbie Dolls collection. Barbie can be bought in a variety of looks and styles all sporting Harley logos and accessories.

There are a variety of other Barbies that falls under the pop culture heading that collectors would love to buy. Some of these include: Hard Rock Cafe Barbie Doll, Malibu Barbie, Western Chic Barbie, Fire And Ice Barbie, Glamour Gal Betty Boop, Mann’s Chinese Theater Barbie, and Statue of Liberty Barbie to name a few.

 

Mattel released an international collection called the Dolls of the World, in 1980, with Barbie’s representing various parts of the world. The dolls are dressed in relatively traditional clothing with each one representing a nation. The collection is predominately of European countries; there are also Peruvian, Kenyan, Chinese, Filipino, Arctic, Japanese and Australian Barbie‘s. For example, in 2001 The Princess Collection was released with dolls named Princess of India, Princess of the Navajo, and Princess of the Vikings. Each Doll of the World also has its own personal story behind her. Kelly: Dolls of the World featuring Barbie‘s little sister and two friends representing different European countries were offered as of 2005.

Asia Collection-

View a photo slideshow of this collection on Flickr

This collection features beautiful dolls in breathtaking costumes. Their authentic dresses and costumes make for pure Asian beauty. There are seven stylish dolls to be found in the Asia Collection, they are: Thai Barbie, India Barbie, Japanese Barbie, Chinese Barbie, Malaysian Barbie, Korean Barbie, and Oriental Barbie.

Africa Collection-

The costumes worn by the dolls in this collection are amazing. Bright colors headwear and stylish accessories work together to make for very traditional looks. The four dolls in this collection are: Moroccan Barbie, Ghanian Barbie, Kenyan Barbie, and Nigerian Barbie.

Australia Collection-

This collection showcases only one doll, but she is completely stunning. Australian Barbie wears an outfit typical of a female rancher found in the outback.  She comes with a brown hat, tan skirt and matching vest. A knotted neck scarf and boots complete this ensemble.

Europe Collection-

There are twenty-nine dolls in this collection. Each one is more unique and beautiful than the last. Within this collection you can find: Kelly Friends of the World Dolls, Swedish Barbie, German Barbie, Irish Barbie, Scottish Barbie, Royal U.K Barbie, French Barbie, English Barbie, Parisian Barbie and Spanish Barbie just to name a few. Every doll comes in traditional clothing with accompanying accessories.

North America Collection-

Northwest Coast Native American Barbie, Native American Barbie, Arctic Barbie, Puerto Rican Barbie, Mexican Barbie, Polynesian Barbie, Jamaican Barbie, Eskimo Barbie, and Canadian Barbie, can all be found in this collection. Each Barbie doll comes dresses to appropriately represent her heritage with style and elegance.

South America Collection-

This collection has four unique and truly stunning dolls. Their intricate dress and finely detailed accessories make them a collector’s dream. In this collection, you will find: Peruvian Barbie, Chilean Barbie, Brazilian Barbie, and Peruvian Barbie.

The Princess Collection-

This collection is full of elegant, glamorous dolls that represent their countries with style and grace. In this collection, you will find: Princess of Holland Barbie, Princess of the Pacific Islands Barbie, Princess of Imperial Russia Barbie, Princess of Japan Barbie, Princess of China Barbie, Princess of the Nile Barbie, Princess of Ireland Barbie, Princess of the Incas Barbie, Princess of the Vikings Barbie, and Princess of the Cambodia Barbie among others.

Festivals of the World Collection-

The five dolls in this collection represent various festivals with their colorful costumes and unique accessories. The dolls in this collection are: Kwanzaa Barbie, Oktoberfest Barbie, Diwali Barbie, Carnaval Barbie, and Chinese New Year Barbie.

American Stories Collection-

In this collection, you will find dolls that represent some of the greatest stories in American History. The dolls in this collection are: American Indian Barbie, Patriot Barbie, Civil War Nurse Barbie, Pioneer Shopkeeper Barbie, Colonial Barbie, Pilgrim Barbie, and Pioneer Barbie.

Legends of Ireland Collection-

This collection is made up of four beautiful dolls. With their elegant costumes and amazing accessories, they perfectly represent their country. The Barbie’s in this collection are: Spellbound Lover Barbie, Faerie Queen Barbie, and the Bard Barbie.

Native Spirit Collection-

The intricate, finely detailed costumes that these dolls wear show off their true Native Spirit. The authentic looking dolls in this collection are: Spirit of the Sky Barbie, Spirit of Water Barbie, and Spirit of the Earth Barbie.

Stars and Stripes Barbie Series-

This is a very amazing collection. It pays complete patriotic tribute with costumes and accessories. In this collection you will find: Air Force Barbie and Ken Deluxe set, Army Barbie and Ken Deluxe set, Marine Corps Barbie, Marine Corps Barbie and Ken Deluxe set, Marine Corps Ken, Navy Barbie, Air Force Barbie, Army Barbie, and Mardi Gras Barbie.

The Great Eras Collection-

Ten Barbie dolls are found in this collection. The costumes, the accessories and the hairstyles are put together perfectly showcasing how elegant these dolls are. Within this collection, you will find: Chinese Empress Barbie, French Lady Barbie, Grecian Goddess Barbie, Victorian Lady Barbie, Elizabethan Barbie, Medieval Lady Barbie, Egyptian Queen Barbie, Southern Belle Barbie, 1920s Flapper Barbie, and Gibson Girl Barbie.

More World Culture Dolls-

There are some stylish dolls that fall under this heading. As with all the collections, the costumes are stunning and the accessories finely detailed. The dolls in this collection are: Wind Rider Barbie, Maiko Barbie, Inuit Legend Barbie, Victorian Barbie with Cedric bear, Golden Qi-Pao Barbie, George Washington Barbie, Andalucia Barbie, Barbie and Empress Sissy, and Victorian Elegance Barbie.

 

Limited edition Barbies are to Barbie collectors what a rare bottle of wine is to a wine collector: a wonderful find!  After all, limited editions Barbies are the lifeblood that pulses through the veins of the Barbie collecting body.  Sure, you have many collectors who may collect vintage dolls, while others specialize in themed collections, such as holiday themes or “evening at the show” themes.  Yet many a collector loves to have the limited edition Barbie simply because it promises to be a rarity some day – usually sooner rather than later. While the number of available dolls is not being daily reduced simply because dolls are being ravaged by the tooth of time, but instead because only a limited number was produced after which – quite literally – the producers throw away the mold.

Yet not all is well on the collecting front.  As a matter of fact, to some collectors these limited edition Barbies are a pain rather than a pleasure. They bemoan the fact that at times they will not be able to purchase the dolls they want when they want them, and then have to wait for other collectors to turn around and sell their dolls – often at inflated prices. Usually, these kinds of collectors care very little about “NRFB” (never removed from box) and similar designations, and instead enjoy posing their dolls and displaying them in their homes. Beginning collectors may also fall into this category, and may actually feel a bit put off at not being able to obtain the dolls of their choice when they are first joining the ranks of the serious collectors.

Granted, both sides make a lot of sense.  Yet if you are a serious Barbie collector, you will need to ask yourself this question:  do you want to collect dolls for the sake of collecting and personally displaying them in your home, or are you collecting with one eye on the possibility that your investments will increase in value?  Sure, if you are happy to just add beautiful dolls to your collection now and then, and you do not mind paying a pretty penny for them, then it will probably not matter to you if a doll is a limited edition Barbie or simply a run of the mill doll that is still in production and probably will continue to be so for a while to come yet.  Similarly, you will need to be able to stomach the fact that the beautiful doll you just bought will probably decline in value rather than increase in value, simply because so many are flooding the market, that – like so many other items – supply and demand will remain even, and perhaps tip in favor of the supply rather than the demand side of the equation.

What it boils down to is the fact that there are two different kinds of collectors: the ones who are hoping that their collections will increase in value and pick their pieces with an eye on this possibility, and those who simply collect for aesthetics and do not really care if their collection increases in value, decreases, or stays somewhere in between. While Mattel does its level best to cater to both kinds of collectors, when a casual collector is unable to obtain a limited doll to which she has taken a fancy, it will not help to remember all the other dolls she was able to purchase without any problem at all.  Thus, it is a foregone conclusion that limited edition Barbies will be both a pain and a pleasure to collectors – yet they are here to stay, and hopefully Mattel’s willingness to cater to both kinds of collectors will alleviate at least a bit of the pain.

 

If you are a proud doll collector who counts some old and maybe even rare treasures in your collection, you have probably been extremely diligent of conserving your treasures.  They are the pride and joy of your displays and not a visitor enter your home that is not treated to a glimpse at these wonderful Barbie dolls.  Yet not too long ago a health scare circulated amongst doll enthusiasts and collectors alike.  It was said that a dangerous substance was leaching out of your older dolls – usually the ones manufactured in the late 1950s and early 1960s, and the ramifications to your health as well as the well being of your loved ones were dire indeed.

The material used to manufacture Barbie doll in her heyday was polyvinyl chloride. Sine this material is known to get rather brittle over a short period of time, a plasticizer was added to maintain the elasticity of the doll’s material.  Unfortunately, this particular plasticizer became subject to close scrutiny when it began to ooze out of the dolls.  Symptoms of such “sick” dolls were sticky faces and legs, discolored extremities, and stiff clothing – usually where the clothing came in contact with the oozing substance. A closer look at these materials led to their being banned by the European Union, which cited several studies that claimed connections between developments of allergies, brain cancer, skin diseases – such as scleroderma – and also cancers of the biliary duct and blood vessels and the dolls.

This scare did much harm to the dolls that were in the possession of collectors and others.  Nobody wanted to pass on their potentially deadly dolls to their grandchildren, and many beautiful specimens were relegated to plastic bags filled with cornstarch cob bedding, where they became attractants to insects and vermin everywhere.  It is not surprising that soon the voices of those who were defying the health warnings and knocking the health hazard Barbie myth were heard.  Most notably are the Toy Manufacturers of American who are referring to the warning voices as “a group of activists” who have the goal of scaring parents.

While it is understandable that this organization has the most to loose if their products come under scrutiny, the reasoning that activists are looking to scare parents sounds still a bit hollow.  After all, what could these activists possibly hope to gain? Similarly, the claims of many that plastic does not deteriorate – and therefore does not leach anything or emit anything – rings hollow as well; after all, have we truly managed to create something that will last forever?  This is highly doubtful! As a matter of fact, detractors or what they call derisively the “Health Hazard Barbie Myth” do indeed acknowledge that the plasticizers used in the manufacturing of the dolls is known to come to the material’s surface and leach out.  This sounds suspiciously like deterioration, even if opponents of the health scare do not agree with this nomenclature. 

You should keep in mind that neither proponents of the health warnings nor opponents thereof have come up conclusively with evidence to silence the other side forever.  Some claims simply do not ring true, while others simply fly in the face of elementary common sense.  Until a definitive answer is reached, here are some suggestions on how to deal with your dolls:

Take the doll off your display shelf and store is separately from any other dolls in a cool, dark place. This may temporarily slow down the deterioration. 

Do not follow some fad advice on cleaning the doll with alcohol or harsh chemicals.

Resist the urge store the dolls in a plastic bag or, as some have been suggestion, wrap her in cellophane. Instead, store her inside a cardboard box and lock it up away from the hands of children and other collectors.

Do not use cob bedding or cornstarch to fill up the dolls and thus try to get the leaching to move inward. This only will make your doll more susceptible to attacks from insects and other vermin.

Only touch the doll with surgical gloves.

Keep the doll out of the reach of children at all times and do not even allow them to handle accessories that may have come in contact with the sticky mess that oozed from the doll.

 

You are an ardent Barbie collector and you number a fair amount of vintage dolls in your collection.  They are your pride and joy and you love to display them frequently.  Lovingly you keep them safe from dust, direct sunlight, moisture, and excessive heat or cold.  You probably have invested in a specialized display cabinet, and may have silica gel discreetly placed all around your Barbie doll.  It is therefore not surprising that one day you are entirely taken by shock by when you realize that one of your beloved Barbie doll seems to be growing some mold on her ears! 

Conversely, you might have spotted a very promising deal on the Barbie you have coveted for a long time at the auction site of your choice. You know this is a great deal, and you cannot wait to add this doll to your collection, yet the price is a bit low, and when asked, the seller is quick to point out that there is a teeny tiny problem with the doll’s ears – yes, it is the dreaded green ear syndrome.

While for many novice doll collectors this might be a deal breaker, the savvy Barbie aficionado knows that green ear is a normal condition that is usually caused by the metal earrings that came with the vintage dolls.  When they are left in the doll’s ears for a lengthy period of time, a chemical reaction between the doll’s material and the metal causes the doll’s ears to turn green.  Novice collectors sometimes forget this little known fact, and they are then doubly upset to have purchased a beautiful looking vintage doll, only to have it grow something that looks akin to mold in front of their very eyes!

Is there something collectors can do to deal with the infamous green ear syndrome? As a matter of fact, there are a number of things you can do!

First and foremost, if you are displaying your Barbie dolls, be sure to take the earrings out of their ears and only reinsert them on special occasions, such as when you are displaying the doll, or giving a tour of your collection.  The same, by the way, is true of any metal jewelry that may have come with any of your vintage dolls, such as wristbands, necklaces, or anything else.

Do not, under any circumstances, attempt to clean up your doll with a large variety of harsh chemicals.  The odds are pretty good that they will damage not only your doll’s materials, but will also not fix the green ear problem.  Worst-case scenario, you will end up with a doll with green ears and discolored face, neck, and other extremities.

Do obtain one of the two chemical compounds that doll aficionados swear by: Tarn-X or Remov-Zit. Do not use both simultaneously on the problem spots in the mistaken belief that double stitched holds better. You will need to decide on one compound to use.

Keep in mind that this is a time-consuming effort.  It will not undo the damage that built up over years overnight.  Instead, be prepared to have this process take weeks or maybe even months!

Gently clean the ears of your doll from any debris that may have accumulated.

Using a toothpick, apply a thin coating of the product of your choice to the affected area.  Since the products have some noxious smells – after all, they are chemical compounds – be sure to work in a well-ventilated area and do not smoke or have any open flames nearby!

Once you have applied the product to the affected ear, allow it to dry.  This may take a couple of days. You will know that the product has completely dried when it has left behind a hard, shell-like coating over the treated area.

Remove this shell-like substance.  With it, you will also be removing some of the green discoloration.

Repeat the process until the green is gone.

As you can see, the dreaded green ear syndrome does not have to spell disaster to your doll collection.  Similarly, if you find that amazing deal on the auction site of your choice, do not pass it up simply because you see green – instead, consider investing the time in lovingly restoring that vintage doll to its former glamour!

 

What would Barbie be, if not on the forefront of style and fashion?  For this reason, it is not surprising that the year 2005 saw the advent of the Fashion Fever Barbie.  Clad in the latest styles, and even hinting at coming runway sensations, this collection of dolls models a large number of accessories in differing styles and materials.  At the heart of the latest Barbie debut are Barbie, Kayla, Drew, and Teresa. As a matter of fact, Fashion fever was Mattel’s replacement of the Fashion Avenue doll collection, which was all the rage in 2004. 

The Fashion Fever dolls and accessories began to be released to the public in late 2004, but they are considered for all intents and purposes to be a 2005 phenomenon. Cleverly, the manufacturers released the new collection in stages, common referred to as “waves.” While the indomitable quartet is at the heart of this new line of Barbies, other dolls have been added during the different waves; in addition to Barbie, Kayla, Drew, and Teresa, there are also Gillian, Courtney, Kurt and Kira.

Here are some highlights of the Fashion Fever, the latest Barbie debut:

The number one Barbie sees her wearing a hot pink t-shirt underneath a short pink tartan dress. Red sunglasses round out this package.

The number two Barbie looks a bit more casual in the Malibu style, wearing a belly exposing shirt, beautifully embroidered jeans, as well as a tweed jacket.

Teresa has a bit of a retro look in her nicely flowing dress with multi colored polka dots. A pink cardigan sweater and a handbag round out this outfit.

Kayla wears a shimmering silver blouse and pink striped skirt with fronds, a short white leather jacket, and knew high pink boots. She also has a pink purse.

Several mannequin forms are also being sold that further offer a large variety of clothing options for this popular quartet of dolls. Similarly, several clothing items are sold separately, and very soon your Fashion Fever Barbies will indeed be the best-dressed dolls in town. It is interesting to note that this line of Barbie is not content with simply the shoes, purse, and dresses, but it actually took a lot of pains to also add several hats and scarves as accessories.

Of course, Fashion Fever does not just focus on the dolls, but has instead spawned a large number of everyday items that collectors and especially little and not so little girls will prize!

A Barbie wall clock that incorporates Barbie fashion and time keeping is the first item that manufacturers have crafted in keeping with the trends portrayed in the Fashion Fever line of Barbies.

A jewelry box that is topped by a mannequin with outfit is another item that will soon be a coveted staple for many little girls’ bedrooms.

Fashion fever bookends feature the pink that is so definitive of this new line, as well as some doll accessories and even a doll!

For the serious Barbie enthusiast, the Fashion Fever line also manufactures doll carrying cases that will keep the dolls in order, as well as the accessories within easy reach.

Several Barbie accessories have also sprung up around the many waves of the Fashion Fever line.  There is the “Sweet Dreams Bed,” the “Velvet Crush Couch Set,” and the “Dresser Play Set.”  These are quite possibly the most popular items in this line, but several others are available as well.

As you can see, Fashion Fever is here to stay and it came on big!  There are so many accessories available that display of these dolls is going to be a cinch!  Just remember that if you are purchasing dolls and accessories for display purposes to also take great care not to mix and match rubber and plastic accessories, and to be general with the silica gel when it comes to the area around those dolls that may be wearing leather accessories. Those who will be purchasing the dolls for their children will delight in the fact that they are so versatile and that there are so many fashions that will go along with them, thus guaranteeing virtually endless play opportunities.

 

The dolls in the following collections represent Barbie at her finest with their chic styles, fashionable hairstyles and perfectly accented accessories.

Modern Circle Collection-

This collection is filled with dolls dressed in ultra chic sophisticated clothing. Trendy and hip accessories accompany each doll to complete their look. In this collection, the dolls you will find are: 1 Modern Circle Ken, 1 Modern Circle Melody, 1 Modern Circle Barbie, and 1 Modern Circle Simone. Most of the dolls found in this collection come in one of two looks.

Barbie Fashion Model Collection-

There are an abundant amount of dolls in this breathtaking collection. Each doll is pure vintage looking delight and sure to please any collector. There are not just dolls in this collection, you can also find a vanity set as well as individually sold articles of clothing. Some of the dolls in this collection are: Lady of the Manor Barbie, The Stewardess Barbie, Highland Fling Barbie, Muffy Roberts Barbie, Suite Retreat Barbie, Fashion Insider Ken gift set, Black Enchantment Barbie, Dusk to Dawn gift set, The Spa Getaway gift set and Country Bound Fashion Barbie.

Best Models-

These Barbie’s know exactly how to strike a pose. They are sleek and chic with their beautiful clothes and delightful accessories. Set in different locations, they are all ready for the camera. The three dolls in this collection are: On Location Milan Barbie, On Location Monte Carlo Barbie, and On Location South Beach Barbie.

Designer Spotlight-

The two dolls in the Designer Spotlight Collection are simply regal. Their stunning gowns and elegant hairstyles represent pure elegant grace. These two dolls are: Designer Spotlight by Heather Fonseca and Designer Spotlight by Katiana Jimenez.

Fao Exclusives-

Graceful, charming, and elegant are the words needed to describe these Barbie dolls. Their chic hairdo’s, ravishing gowns and amazing accessories are a delight to the eye. In this collection of dolls you will find: Lily Barbie, Antique Rose Barbie, and Jeweled Splendor Barbie.

Flavor Obsession-

Not only are these dolls stunning in appearance, their very names are mouthwatering. In stylish gowns, with matching accessories, these Barbie’s are a site to behold. Not only are these dolls charming in looks, they each have there own delicious aroma. Their clothing is a direct reflection on their name as well. Citrus Obsession Barbie, Peppermint Obsession Barbie, White Chocolate Obsession Barbie, and Chocolate Obsession Barbie are a collector must have.

Grand Entrance Series-

The Grand Entrance Barbie is elegant and full of style. She comes in a choice of lavender or pink gown.

Model of the Moment-

These Barbie dolls are all ready for the runway. Their clothing is hip and their matching accessories are trendy. The dolls in this collection are: Daria Shopping Queen Barbie, Marisa Beach Baby Barbie, Daria Celebutante Barbie, Marisa Pretty Young Thing Barbie, and Nichelle Urban Hipster Barbie.

Royal Jewels Collection-

The four dolls in this collection each represent a jewel. From their stylish hairstyles to their jewel toned gowns, they are a picture of grace and charm. The dolls in this collection are: Countess of Rubies Barbie, Duchess of Diamonds Barbie, Empress of Emeralds Barbie, and Queen of Sapphires Barbie.

Society Hound Collection-

Society Hound Barbie wears a 1920s faux fur trimmed dress with matching lined cape. Her dog wears a cape that is trimmed with fur and accessorized with a rhinestone leash.

Style Set Collection-

The name of the collection says it all. The Barbie’s in this collection are stylish and sophisticated. This collection includes: Exotic Beauty Barbie Treasure Hunt doll, Bohemian Glamour Barbie, and Society Girl Barbie.

Wedgwood Series-

Wedgwood Barbie comes in a choice of blue or pink gown. Whichever choice you make, her stunning beauty, graceful outfit and amazing accessories will make her the perfect choice.

Barbie Couture Collection-

The dolls in this collection showcase Barbie at her most fashionable. Symphony in Chiffon Barbie, Serenade in Satin Barbie, and Portrait in Taffeta Barbie are all tasteful and charming.

Barbie Millicent Roberts Collection-

The dolls in this collection all vary a good deal from one another. There are not just dolls in this collection; you can also find luggage and accessories. Some of the Barbie’s in this collection are: Green Thumb Fashion Barbie, Barbie City Slicker Barbie, Barbie Court Favorite Barbie, and Picnic Perfect Barbie.

Classique Collection-

The dolls in this collection are simply divine. Their costumes are bold and colorful, their hairstyles glamorous and exciting and their accessories perfectly matched. Samples of the dolls in this collection are: Evening Sophisticate Barbie, Romantic Interlude Barbie, Starlight Dance Barbie, Midnight Gala Barbie, and Uptown Chic Barbie.

Diva Collection-

The three divas in this collection are completely delightful. Their slinky gowns, long flowing hair, and chic accessories make them a collector’s dream. In this collection you will find: Red Hot Barbie, All that Glitters Barbie, and Gone Platinum Barbie.

Fashion Savvy Collection-

Barbie has always been fashionable and it has never been more evident then in this collection. Tangerine Twist Barbie and Uptown Chic Barbie represent her love of fine clothing and detailed accessories perfectly.

Flowers In Fashion Collection-

The dolls found in this collection come dressed in vibrant, silky gowns put together to resemble flowers. The dolls in this collection are: The Iris Barbie, The Calla Lily Barbie, The Orchid Barbie, and The Rose Barbie.

Great Fashions Of the 20th Century Series-

Each doll uniquely represents the fashions from a period of time in this collection. Their clothing, hairstyles and accessories leave no doubt as to which era they are from. In this collection are: Fabulous Forties Barbie, Groovy Sixties Barbie, Nifty Fifties Barbie, Peace and Love 70’s Barbie, Steppin’ Out Barbie - 1930’s, Dance ‘til Dawn Barbie, and Promenade in the Park Barbie.

Portrait Collection-

The three dolls in this collection come in packaging made to make them look as if a part of a fine painting. Duchess Emma Barbie, Lady Cammille Barbie, and Mademoiselle Isabelle Barbie are all exquisite and stunning works of art.

 

Unless you are a little girl who simply enjoys her Barbies as playthings, you will most likely want to display the pieces of your doll collection. After all, no collector worth her or his salt will want to keep these treasures stored up in a locked box inside an attic or basement, where the dolls will gradually become dusty, buried under cobwebs, and generally forgotten.  On the contrary!  The odds are pretty good that you will want to showcase the dazzling colors of the accessories, the vivid animation of her movements, and also the many outside accessories that have accompanied Barbie on decades of adventures.

Here are some helpful hints for displaying your Barbies to their best advantage.

Find a display area for your dolls.  You cannot display something that is lying down in an enclosed trunk.  Hence, you will want to find a shelf (if you have only a few dolls on display), converted closet (if you have more than simply a shelf’s worth of dolls), or even a spare bedroom (if you have a sizeable doll collection).  Resist the temptation of spreading your collection over a variety of rooms.  Instead of displaying your Barbie collection to its best advantage, you are actually turning it into clutter, competing for attention amongst different collectibles, design themes, and maybe even day-to-day items.  If you are extremely fortunate, you will be able to find a lighted display case that will fit in with your other furniture and make a wonderful backdrop to your collection.

Once you have found the perfect display area, make sure it receives some indirect lighting.  Do not allow direct sunlight to be your source of light, since it will make the vibrant colors of clothing and packaging fade.  Similarly, when using artificial lighting, do not use light sources that emanate heat.  Having these too close to the dolls will actually contribute to the deterioration of the many rubber and plastic components that are part and parcel of the doll and her accessories.

Resist the temptation to display your dolls outside of their packages or specially crafted display cases, since this will only permit dust, dander, and little bugs to collect on them. Dusting the dolls regularly can become quite a chore, even in a climate-controlled environment.

Of course, in addition to the dos and don’ts of proper display, there are also the aesthetic considerations you will need to keep in mind. Refrain from displaying dolls of varying sizes together.  Small size differences are okay, but larger differences in size will detract the eye from the dolls and instead focus on the size differences alone.

If you have specific collections, such as those that deal with region specific paraphernalia or hobby specific accessories, group them together.  To lessen great size differences in your dolls, consider displaying some in seated fashion, while others may be standing up. If you follow this idea, be sure to keep the color palette compatible. You do not want opposing colors that detract the eye from the display and instead focus it on incompatibilities of the groupings. As a matter of fact, this might be a great time to download a color wheel from the Internet to get hints on how to display colors together in a harmonious fashion.

Discreetly place silica gel around the dolls, but out of sight. This substance will guarantee that your dolls’ outfits will not rot – especially if leather is involved – even if perhaps your climate control might be a bit off.  Consider it a form of additional insurance.  While you may object to having silica gel behind your displayed dolls, remember that they are most vulnerable once they have been taken out of their protective boxes!

As you can see, displaying your Barbies to their best advantage does not have to be a guessing game, and with a little bit of planning, some strategy, and some overall common sense you will be able to have a wonderful display area that is an asset to any home.  Harmonizing with your furniture, décor, and even other display items, you will never have the feel of clutter, but instead have some wonderful eye candy that will only enhance your room.

 

The fantasy collection of Barbie dolls includes angels, goddesses and fairies. Under each category is a group of breathtaking collectable dolls.

A Garden of flowers collection- Rose Barbie doll represents this category. She comes dressed in a pink taffeta gown, with rose motif details. Jewelry is not forgotten as she wears a faux pearl choker and a braided faux pearl, pink and green headband in her hair. In her hand she holds a rose complete with ribbon streamers.

Artist Series- the Barbie’s in this collection are representations of works of art. The artist Pierre Auguste Renoir influenced a reflection of Light Barbie.

Next in line is Sunflower Barbie, dressed in an elegant gown with a Van Gogh sunflower print. Water Lily Barbie completes this collection; her dress includes a water lily print with a three-layer ruffle wrapping around it.

Celestial collection- this collection of Barbie doll’s feature’s three exotic princesses sure to thrill any collector. Evening Star Princess Barbie emulates the evening sky in her lovely midnight blue gown. Midnight Moon Princess Barbie represents the dark, night sky. Morning Sun Princess Barbie is a contrast to the other dolls in this collection, yet just as lovely.

Dream Seasons Collection: The four dolls in this collection each represent a season in a unique and stunning way. I Dream of Autumn Barbie Doll embody the crisp beauty of fall. Pure summer warmth is showcased with the I Dream of Summer Barbie Doll. The blooming joy of spring is shown with the I Dream of Spring Barbie Doll. I Dream of Winter Barbie Doll is icy perfection in her blue charmeuse gown.

Magic and Mystery Collection: This collection is a pure delight. Featuring Barbie and Ken together in a magical, mysterious way. Tales of the Arabian Nights Gift set allows Barbie and Ken to reconstruct the romantic fairy tale of how Scheherazade brought peace to a Sultan with 1001 nights of enchanting stories. Barbie and Ken also represent Merlin and Morgan le Fay in this magical collection. 

The Enchanted World of Fairies Collection: There are two dolls in this collection. Stunning fairies sure to be a magical delight. Fairy of the Garden Barbie is enchanting in a dress of peach and pink resembling the hues of flower petals. Fairy of the Forest Barbie comes dressed in a gown of sparking blue, purple and green. Both of these dolls have splendid pointed ears and shoes and come with wings that shimmer.

Timeless Sentiments Collection: Barbie as gentle angels is what this collection is about. 

Angel of Peace and Angel of Joy are the two dolls you will find. They are meant to represent tranquility, and warmth in their gauzy gowns and wings.

Angels of Music Collection: Heartstring Angel Barbie and Harpist Angel Barbie are the two musical beauties that complete this collection. Their quiet beauty will warm your heart bringing about a sense of serenity.

A bird of Beauty Collection: This collection is composed of three dolls The Swan Barbie, The Flamingo Barbie, and the Peacock Barbie. Full of color, feathers, beads and faux jewels, the frocks on these dolls make for dramatic results.

Classical Goddess Collection: The name of this collection says it all; stunning goddess’s beautifully attired. The three Barbie’s in this collection are Goddess of Wisdom, Goddess of spring and Goddess of Beauty.

Lounge Kitties Collection: These two dolls are delightfully unique. They feature shorthaired dolls in tails and cat suits. Devine accessories complete their one of a kind look.

Masquerade Gala Collection: In this collection Barbie is mysterious and dramatic. These stunning dolls are full of intrigue and suspense. Venetian Opulence Barbie, Illusion Barbie, and Rendezvous Barbie are the three stunning dolls in this collection, emulating intrigue and suspense.

The Essence of Nature Collection: Dancing Fire Barbie, Whispering Wind Barbie, and Water Rhapsody Barbie represent nature amazingly in this collection.

The gowns and accessories these dolls wear work together to embody these elements.

Together Forever Collection: Two of the greatest romantic tales are showcased perfectly in this collection with Barbie and Ken. In the first, Ken and Barbie are Camelot’s King & Queen, Arthur and Guinevere. In the second, Barbie and Ken represent one of the best-known love stories of all time, Rome and Juliet. Clothing and accessories are used together to add the necessary fine details in this collection.

 

Do your display shelves hold a number of Ponytail Barbie dolls?  If so, the odds are very good that you may actually have a small fortune on display! It is interesting to note that there are six different styles of Ponytail Barbies that have been manufactured; each has its unique characteristics and charms, and collectors and buyers receive each differently.  If your interest is piqued at this point, you are probably wondering exactly what kinds of Ponytail Barbie doll it is that is so lovingly displayed on your shelves. For the seasoned collector, there are quite a few tell-tale signs and giveaways that allow them to not only date the dolls in their possession, but to also adequately ascertain if the doll is a number one, or any other kind.

Here are some tips and tricks that will allow you to take a close look at your collection and find out quickly and succinctly what kind of doll you have by telling the differences between the different vintage Ponytail Barbies. 

First and foremost, here is a word of warning: in 1993 Mattel decided to re-issue this very popular doll, and some novice collectors may wonder if their Ponytail Barbie is one of the coveted vintage dolls or a new redo.  The answer to this question may be found on the package itself. On the package you may see a printed inscription that reads Barbie/©1958, 1993/Mattel. This is the clearest indicator that you are the owner of a remake, and thus not of a vintage doll.

The vintage Ponytail Barbie dolls is best identified by their differences, rather than their similarities. Additionally, if you have the original packaging, you will also have a much easier time identifying some of the dolls. First and foremost, the most important aspect of identifying a vintage doll is the eyebrow.  For a while, high arched eyebrows used to be the rage, and of course Barbie was not lagging behind in her recognition of a fashion statement. Thus, if your doll has highly arched eyebrows and also white irises, you probably own a number one Ponytail Barbie, which is amongst those highly coveted by collectors. If you have the original packaging, take a look at the print.  If it reads Barbie™/Pats.Pend./©MCMLVIII you know without a doubt that you have a number one.

Another sign of owning a number one Ponytail Barbie is her skin tone.  Since a type of plastic was used that did not hold the dye very well, the skin color should be a much-washed out white. The body is filled out and the doll is heavy for her size. The hair colors manufactured at that time were brown and blond. The legs had copper tubing inserted, and there should be some tiny holes in the doll’s feet.  A number one Ponytail Barbie may also be sporting her trademark zebra striped bathing suit. If you are wondering what your number one is worth, consider – depending of course on the shape it is in and whether or not it was ever removed from its original box – that a number one with blonde hair has sold for as much as $7,500, while a brunette has sold for $8,500! Wow!

The only difference between a number one and a number two Ponytail Barbie is the fact that the number two has legs that do not contain any tubing, and that subsequently her feet may not show any holes.

It is easy to tell apart a number one or two from a number three or above. The highly arched eyebrows had gone out of fashion at this point, and instead the new fashion ideals dictated the delicate curvature of the brows.  The number three Ponytail Barbies not only evidences this new trend by having curved eyebrows herself, but her irises have changed color from white to blue.  A number three doll may be sold anywhere from $1,200 to $1,500!

When the number four doll was manufactured, Mattel began to use a different kind of plastic which held the dyes better than its predecessors.  Subsequently, this kind of Barbie and her following editions have a nicely tanned skin. Confirmed number four Ponytail Barbies may be worth as much as $1,000!

If your doll’s hair is a blazing titan red, her body is no longer filled out but instead hollow, or if your packaging reads Barbie®/Pats.Pend./©MCMLVIII, you most likely have a number five doll. If you have a number five doll with red hair, this doll may be worth $800.  If you have a number five doll with blonde or brunette hair, you might still have a collectible worth about $700.

The only way to tell a number six from a number five is if she wears a red bathing suit.