In a world that often presents boundaries, Barbie has stood as a beacon of limitless possibility and empowerment for girls everywhere. As we celebrate the 65th anniversary of this iconic figure, we reflect on the journey of a doll that has not just been a toy, but a source of inspiration, courage, and empowerment for generations. Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT), the powerhouse behind Barbie, has kicked off a year filled with celebrations, storytelling, and acknowledgments, underlining the impact Barbie has had in encouraging girls to dream without boundaries.
A Legacy Built on Empowerment
Since her debut in 1959, Barbie has played a pivotal role in storytelling, enabling children to explore their potential through various roles and narratives. With over 250 careers, Barbie has shown that girls can aspire to be anything they dream of – from astronauts to artists, and everything in between. “Barbie’s story has never been just about her. It’s about the countless young kids she’s inspired and the millions of stories she helped them imagine along the way,” says Krista Berger, Senior Vice President of Barbie and Global Head of Dolls.
Honoring Global Storytellers
This March, in celebration of International Women’s Day and the 65th anniversary, Barbie is honoring global storytellers who use their platforms for good. These include:
- Viola Davis: An artist and activist whose work spans across various mediums, advocating for the voiceless and fighting childhood hunger.
- Shania Twain: A music and fashion icon who has paved the way for women in country music.
- Dame Helen Mirren: Celebrated for her acting prowess and advocacy for women’s stories and self-expression.
- Kylie Minogue, Maira Gomez, Lila Avilés, Nicole Fujita, and Enissa Amani: Each bringing unique narratives from different corners of the world, from music and cinema to activism and content creation.
The Barbie Dream Gap Project
In collaboration with Inspiring Girls International, Barbie continues to support the Barbie Dream Gap Project, aimed at empowering girls to reach their full potential. Through workshops and mentorship, this initiative fosters leadership skills, confidence, and the exploration of diverse career interests among girls aged 12-14.
A Nostalgic yet Forward-Looking Anniversary Collection
The 65th-anniversary collection revisits some of Barbie’s most popular career dolls while introducing new ones inspired by iconic looks throughout her history. Highlights include:
- A collectible doll inspired by the original 1959 Barbie, dressed in a couture gown that nods to Barbie’s first black and white striped bathing suit.
- The 2024 Fashionistas dolls, reimagining iconic Barbie looks in modern outfits, celebrating 65 years of style.
- The Barbie Cuutopia Plush figures and the UNO Canvas™ Barbie deck, offering unique takes on Barbie’s signature looks.
Collaborations and Celebrations
Barbie’s anniversary is further marked by collaborations with over 40 brands, introducing a wide array of Barbie-themed products, from fashion and food to entertainment and publishing. Noteworthy collaborations include a specialty book by Margot Robbie, a luxury coffee table book by Assouline, and limited-edition Stacy’s Pita Chips, supporting female founders and the Barbie Dream Gap Project.
Retail Celebrations and The Barbie Movie
Retailers worldwide, including Amazon, Target, and Walmart, are joining in the celebrations with exclusive products and collections. The 65th year also follows the monumental success of the Barbie movie, a testament to the brand’s enduring appeal and its role in shaping narratives of empowerment and dreams.
As Barbie continues to inspire through storytelling and representation, the 65th anniversary is not just a celebration of the past but a hopeful look towards a future where every girl knows she can be anything. This milestone underscores Barbie’s unwavering commitment to empowering the next generation of girls, proving that with Barbie, the possibilities are limitless.