
Image via Barbie
Barbie today arrives in all shapes and sizes, representing everyone from women working in sports to Mariah Carey and even Ted Lasso characters. Now, she has evolved once again, this time into an adorable, 18-inch-tall American Girl Doll.

Image via Mattel Creations
This special edition, a collaboration between sister Mattel brands American Girl and Barbie, is a homage to the beloved No. 1 Barbie from 1959, merging the nostalgia of Barbie with the charm of American Girl (a tribute to the vintage icon was also made in the Barbie movie).

Image via Mattel Creations

Image via Mattel Creations
The very first Barbie doll, introduced in 1959 by Mattel at the American International Toy Fair in New York City, certainly revolutionized the world of toys. Then named the ‘Original Teenage Fashion Model’, she could effortlessly transition from a day at the beach to a glamorous evening out. This unveiling marked a significant departure from the conventional dolls of the time, which were primarily baby dolls.

Image via Mattel Creations
Barbie quickly became a cultural icon, encouraging imaginative play and reflecting the evolving roles of women in society.

Image via Mattel Creations
Standing tall at 18 inches, the American Girl collector’s item possesses crystal blue eyes that open and close, adorned with black winged eyeliner and blue eyeshadow, capturing the essence of the classic Barbie look.
The doll is decked out in a sparkling black-and-white swimsuit, embellished with 455 Swarovski crystals, staying true to Barbie’s glamorous style.

Image via Mattel Creations
Further embracing the original Barbie’s style, the doll features golden hoop earrings, white cat-eye sunglasses with blue lenses, and chic black peep-toe shoes. Her hair is styled in a nostalgic topknot ponytail with curled bangs, complemented by bright red lips and matching nails.
Adding to the homage, the doll comes with a mini Barbie magazine, specially designed for this release, and an authentic replica Barbie wrist tag.

Images via Mattel Creations

Image via Mattel Creations
For those keen on owning a unique piece of this history, the Barbie by American Girl Collector Doll is available for preorder at the Mattel Creations and American Girl websites, priced at US$300. With a worldwide limit of just 5,000 dolls, this collector’s item is as elusive as it is enchanting.
[via Mattel Creations and Toybook, images via Mattel Creations]