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Barbie doll wiki: Barbie variations

The enthusiastic Barbie collector is back with a new topic! Today, I’d like to delve into the fascinating world of Barbie variations. For some collectors, these variations are the icing on the cake, adding depth and excitement to their collection. For others, they might be less interesting, depending on their specific area of interest.

My ideas why to write about Barbie variations

Let’s keep in mind that the makeup was at least partly done by hand. Handmade is handmade, and there’s no doubt about it. Handmade items naturally differ because it’s in human nature to see and do things differently. It’s clear that each Barbie doll has some kind of sample or prototype. While I can’t prove it, I believe that each production plant has its own samples. However, due to potential differences in available materials, like colors, not every plant might have produced dolls in the exact same way. This seems to be the most logical explanation for how these variations probably came to be.

Some collectors like differences

With the emergence of the internet, buying Barbie dolls has become much easier. The range of Barbie dolls available worldwide has expanded significantly, offering more options than ever before. Suddenly, the whole world felt like a small village, making purchasing simpler and more accessible. The year of release no longer mattered; you didn’t need a magazine to find what you were looking for, as was the case before. Special offers could be shared with friends within minutes.

As I’ve mentioned before, the makeup of Barbie dolls can vary between countries, and it’s not uniform everywhere. There are differences in production plants and in the tastes of the local population. For instance, a shortage of a specific color can lead to variations in the appearance of Barbie dolls.

The internet has made it possible for collectors to notice these differences. Personally, I might never have seen these variations if we hadn’t discussed them. You could have one doll from three different plants, and they would appear as three distinct Barbie dolls. It might sound surprising, but it’s true, and I can prove it. Some collectors own the same Barbie model from various countries or factories, and the variations are often astonishing—and incredibly interesting.

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That’s my first Magic Curl Barbie. I found her on a flea market several years ago. She was produced in Taiwan. Have a close look at her eyes. #magiccurlbarbie #magiccurlbarbie1981 #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany #barbievariations

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That’s my second deboxed Magic Curl Barbie. She was also produced in Taiwan. She has still her original hairstyle. She is looking different than her sister. #barbiemagiccurl #magiccurlbarbie #magiccurlbarbie1981 #barbiemadeintaiwan #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany

Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am

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My third Magic Curl Barbie is still in box. She was produced in Taiwan too. Have a look at her face. The make-up is different again. #barbiemagiccurl #magiccurlbarbie1981 #magiccurlbarbie #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany

Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am

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My fourth Magic Curl Barbie is called Rizos Barbie and comes from Spain. Here you can see a big difference in comparison to her sisters from Taiwan. #barbierizos #barbiemagiccurl #magiccurlbarbie #magiccurlbarbie1981 #superstarbarbie #barbiesuperstar #busybfromgermany

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I hope you understand what I’m trying to convey in the section above. Some of these variations are incredibly rare, and collectors often spend significant sums to acquire them. One of the earliest known variations is the very first Midge doll with visible teeth. I don’t know exactly how many Midge dolls were painted with teeth, but I estimate it was between 1% and 2% of the entire production.

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Put my Midge with teeth up for bid on eBay. $49.99 starting bid if anyone’s interested. SOLD. Rare VHTF Vintage Midge With Teeth – Original Swimsuit OSS – Japan #midgewithteeth #midge #dollforsale #MacWadeStudios #penelopescollection

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These rare variations, like the “toothy” Midge, have become highly sought after in the collector community. They represent not just a unique feature but also a piece of Barbie history. The rarity of such dolls often drives up their value, making them prized additions to any collection.

The thrill of the hunt for these unique dolls is a big part of what makes collecting so exciting. It’s not just about owning a doll; it’s about finding a piece of history, a rarity that few others have. The internet has played a crucial role in this, allowing collectors to connect, share information, and trade these rare items across the globe.

For example, finding a Midge with teeth can be like discovering a hidden gem. These dolls are often the subject of intense online bidding wars and are discussed passionately in collector forums. The rarity of these variations can turn an ordinary Barbie collection into something truly extraordinary.

The American Girl Side Part Barbie: Classic Elegance and International Variations

The “American Girl Side Part Barbie,” introduced in 1965, is one of Barbie’s most iconic dolls. Known for its elegant and timeless design, this Barbie features a distinctive side part hairstyle that exudes classic American charm. With its glamorous appearance and sophisticated fashion, the “American Girl Side Part Barbie” quickly became a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts.

The rare Japanese Barbie variant

What makes this doll even more fascinating is the existence of a Japanese variant. While the American and Japanese versions share the same core design, there are several noteworthy differences that reflect regional manufacturing processes and preferences. For a pic have a look at https://nanousan.com/american-girl/1499-american-girl-pink-skin-side-part-vintage-barbie-doll-from-1966.html and https://fashiondollz.de/gmedia/1966-67-sidepart-american-girl-pink-skin-jpg/ and that’s the normal American Girl Barbie https://nanousan.com/american-girl/1357-american-girl-barbie-long-hair-low-color-ash-blonde-doll-1070-from-1966.html

Key Differences

  1. Hair Color and Texture: One of the most apparent differences between the American and Japanese versions is the hair. The Japanese variant often features a slightly different hair color or texture. For example, the Japanese Barbie might have a different shade of blonde or a slightly different curl pattern, reflecting the manufacturing variations or local preferences.
  2. Fashion and Accessories: The outfits and accessories of the Japanese “American Girl Side Part Barbie” may vary from those of the American version. The Japanese Barbie could come with different fabrics, colors, or styles that were tailored to fit the tastes and trends of the Japanese market during that period.
  3. Packaging: The packaging of the Japanese variant might include unique elements, such as Japanese text or design features, which can make it distinct from its American counterpart. This packaging difference adds an extra layer of intrigue for collectors.

Collecting Significance

The Japanese “American Girl Side Part Barbie” is highly sought after by collectors for several reasons:

  • Rarity: The Japanese variant is rarer than the American version, making it a valuable find for collectors. The limited availability adds to its desirability and market value.
  • Cultural Reflection: Collectors appreciate the Japanese Barbie for its reflection of cultural and manufacturing differences. It represents how Barbie was adapted for various international markets while maintaining the essence of the original design.
  • Historical Interest: Owning both the American and Japanese versions provides insight into the global impact of Barbie and how the doll was perceived and adapted in different regions.

The European Side Part Bubble Cut Barbie: A Unique European Twist

The “Side Part Bubble Cut” Barbie, introduced in 1961, is a classic and beloved doll known for its iconic bubble-shaped hairstyle with a side part. This design quickly became a hallmark of Barbie’s early years, embodying the glamour and style of the era. However, what makes the European Side Part Bubble Cut particularly interesting is the unique variations found in its European releases. See pics here https://nanousan.com/bubblecut/473-european-sidepart-bubblecut-vintage-barbie-doll-blonde-from-1965.html

Key Features of the European Side Part Bubble Cut

  1. Distinctive Hair Styling: While the American version of the Bubble Cut Barbie is known for its precise and consistent hairstyle, European versions often display subtle variations. These differences can include variations in hair texture, color, or styling, reflecting regional production techniques or local fashion preferences.
  2. Fashion Differences: The European Side Part Bubble Cut Barbies sometimes come dressed in outfits that differ from those seen in the American releases. These outfits might feature different fabrics, colors, or styles, tailored to the tastes and fashion trends popular in European markets at the time.
  3. Packaging Variations: The packaging of European Bubble Cut Barbies often includes distinct design elements or text in various European languages. This can add to the uniqueness of the doll and make it a prized item for collectors.

Collecting the European Side Part Bubble Cut

The European Side Part Bubble Cut Barbie holds particular appeal for collectors due to several factors:

  • Rarity: European versions of the Side Part Bubble Cut Barbie are rarer compared to their American counterparts. Less of them were produced. This scarcity increases their value and desirability among collectors who seek to complete their collections with international variations.
  • Cultural Insights: Collecting these European variants offers insight into how Barbie was marketed and adapted for different regions. The differences in hair styling, clothing, and packaging reflect the cultural and aesthetic preferences of European audiences during the early 1960s.
  • Historical Significance: Owning a European Side Part Bubble Cut Barbie provides a glimpse into Barbie’s global expansion and how the brand adapted its iconic dolls for various markets. It’s a tangible piece of Barbie’s international history.

Conclusion: A World of Barbie Variations

As we’ve explored, the world of Barbie variations is incredibly rich and diverse. From the unique “Long-Haired American Girl” and its Japanese counterpart to the distinctive European Side Part Bubble Cut, these dolls offer a fascinating glimpse into the global appeal and adaptation of Barbie.

However, it’s important to note that these are just a few examples of the myriad Barbie variations that exist within the Barbie universe. The variations in hairstyles, outfits, and packaging are extensive, reflecting not only different production techniques but also the unique preferences of collectors and markets around the world.

Exploring every possible Barbie variation would be a monumental task, as each doll has its own story and significance. The scope of these variations is vast and continues to evolve as new editions and international releases emerge.

For those intrigued by Barbie’s global journey and the endless diversity of her dolls, there’s always more to discover. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of Barbie, the quest for unique and rare variations promises to be an exciting and rewarding adventure. Read more here Discovering Unknown and Undocumented Barbies from South America and India: A Hidden Treasure for Collectors

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Barbie doll wiki: Why were black Barbie dolls suddenly available?

Why do we have a black Barbie doll in 1980?

Have you ever wondered why black Barbie dolls suddenly appeared in 1980? It seems that 1980 was a turning point in the world of Barbie. The reason why is quite intriguing. While I’m not entirely certain, I recall reading in a book that a law was changed around that time, which made it possible for Mattel to produce black dolls officially named “Barbie” for the first time. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find the specific name of this law.

The reason behind this change is quite intriguing. Prior to 1980, Mattel released dolls like Christie, who was a friend of Barbie, not Barbie herself. While I’m not entirely sure of the specifics, I recall reading that around this time, a change in regulations or company policy might have allowed Mattel to produce black dolls officially named “Barbie” for the first time. Unfortunately, I haven’t been able to find precise information or the exact details on this development.

In a way, this is quite astonishing, as it seems that the idea of a black Barbie doll wasn’t seriously considered before then—at least, that’s my impression. It’s also important to note that these dolls still had predominantly Caucasian features. In my view, they weren’t exact replicas of their white counterparts, but they shared about 70% of the same features. Of course, there were differences, such as hair color and make-up, which were adjusted to complement the darker skin tones. This wasn’t necessarily a bad thing; in fact, it brought some very interesting variations. For instance, consider the Jewel Hair Mermaid Barbie—both the Caucasian and African-American versions offer unique styles and aesthetics.

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She's the Barbie doll with the longest hair ever produced. Unfortunately her hair tends to tangles. #blackjewelhairmermaidbarbie #barbiejewelhairmermaidaa #barbiejewelhairmermaid #barbie1995mattel #barbievintage #vintagebarbies #vintagebarbiedolls #barbiemod #modbarbie #barbiesuperstarära #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #barbiedoctor #doctorbarbie #barbiedoctora

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Not the only change in 1980 / for a black Barbie doll

The 1980 catalogs reveal that the variety of Barbie dolls expanded significantly compared to previous years. For the first time, we saw Asian and Hispanic Barbie dolls alongside the new black Barbie dolls. The range of products grew, introducing lines like “Dolls of the World.” From a marketing perspective, it seems that Mattel aimed to educate and promote diversity through these new offerings.

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“Oriental Barbie”, lançada em 1980 pela Mattel. Sob o slogan “Meet the Barbie from Hong Kong, and learn about the orient”, essa pérola chinesa chegou quando a linha “Dolls Of The World”, começada em 1979, ainda estava engatinhando. O molde facial criado para ela foi posteriormente usado para uma das amigas da loira, mais conhecida como Kira. Com uma franja que é um pesadelo à parte, essa maravilhosa está toda original, faltando apenas o leque de papelão (veio sem, infelizmente), e o medalhão, que optei por não usar. #OrientalBarbie #HongKong #DollsOfTheWorld #BarbieAntiga #BarbieVintage #Barbie #Mattel #BonecaAntiga #BonecasAntigas #BrinquedoAntigo #BrinquedosAntigos #FashionDoll #VintageFashionDoll #Boneca #Bonecas #Brinquedo #Brinquedos #Vintage #Fashion #Doll #Dolls #Early80s #Anos80 #1980

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What we can definitely say is that the 1980s were a decade of great variety for Barbie dolls. The successful launch of Superstar Barbie in 1977, featuring a new head mold, perhaps encouraged Mattel to expand the lineup with a diverse range of Barbie dolls. Music also became a significant theme in the Barbie world, not just as a listener but as a musician. Barbie reinvented herself several times, with “Barbie and the Rockers” being a notable success.

Looking back from 2019, the 1980s are a particularly fascinating decade for Barbie collectors. We see collectors searching for their childhood treasures, those who weren’t even born in that era, collectors who collect across all decades, and even specialized collectors who focus solely on items like 1980s Barbie clothes. The variety is impressive; it’s not limited to a single trend, like the hair-focused styles of the 1990s. For more information about black Barbie please read here Unpacking the Impact of “Black Barbie” on Netflix: A European Perspective

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Barbie doll wiki: What is my Barbie doll worth?

I’m sure that I’m not the only collector whose enthusiasm about this question keeps within its limits. You may ask me why? The problem is that the wrong guys ask these questions. The main problem is that the questioner have no idea of what they have and sometimes the insight that the doll is not worthwhile at all.

The 1966 marking

Believe it or not but the 1966 Barbie doll marking was used for more than 40 years and the dolls with the marking on the back are not as seldom as the ones with the 1966 marking on their butt. Furthermore the mentioning of Japan on the butt is a feature that your doll is really from the 1960s. Later the production was relocated to Korea, Taiwan and many other countries in South-East Asia. At first Japan was the cheapest country in Asia for the production. That’s why Mattel produced the dolls there after WW II.

I don’t want to disgress from the 1966 topic. The 1966 shows us only one thing. The patent for the Twist and Turn Barbie body was patented in that year. Before 1966 the legs were stiff and had no joints. The same counts for the waist. Suddenly Barbie got a moveable waist. Early Barbie dolls have no joints at all.

That’s one of the biggest problems for collectors. We don’t want to be seen as cash cows. Sorry, we don’t buy everything. We have books that tell us how old your doll is. If we don’t want it, your doll is worthless. Worth is in the eye of the beholder.

What makes Barbie dolls worthwhile?

The worth of a Barbie doll is in the eye of the beholder. Rejects, Barbie dolls from the pilot production or just samples that never to any market are highly sought after. Of course Barbie dolls that were produced for foreign markets are also interesting for some collectors. Japan, Spain or countries in Middle and South America offer a wide range of products that set a collectors heart aflutter. In Japan Mattel did in the 1960s special Barbie dolls and clothes exclusively for the Japanese market. That’s why I have some Barbie books that have Japanese Barbie dolls and clothes as the main focus. There are lots of Japanese versions of the Barbie clothes that have different fabrics, details or colors. For some collectors that’s an attraction pole. The sample Barbie dolls from the pilot production for the market test were often taken home by Mattel employees. Do I need to say that there is a market among the collectors for these dolls? I guess not.

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#goldengirl Japanese exclusive Francie and her formal made from the reverse of Evening Splendor fabric. #vintagebarbie #francie #japanesefrancie #japaneseexclusive #barbie #barbiecollector #vintagestyle #vintageformal #dollphotography

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Every collector is a hunter

Please don’t forget that there is the fact that there is a certain attractiveness for collectors. The harder the Barbie doll is to find or to get the more attractive the doll is. For me are Spanish Barbie dolls interesting. They are different from the normal European/Canadian versions. That’s what makes them interesting for me. The ones from India are not even completely recorded in any book. The South American Barbie dolls have a special make-up, much more eye-catching than the US versions. There are also dolls that are rare. Some of these rare Barbie dolls are Photo Fashion PJ or Hawaiian Superstar Barbie. I think Hawaiian Superstar Barbie was available in Europe/Canada only.

I can’t tell you anything about the sales figures of Photo Fashion PJ but I think she was not sold in limited quantity.

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Barbie & Pj fashion photo 1978 #barbie #barbiedoll #barbiesuperstar #barbiepj #barbiesteffie #barbievintage #discobarbie #70sbarbie #1978 #photographer #model #barbiestyle #barbiecollector

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#barbiehawaiiansuperstar#adreamdoll#dollvintagebella#barbebrunettevintage#

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The value is what somebody is willing to pay for your doll

There’s not really a right or wrong concerning the payment. One of the important factors is the demand. You probably get more money when there is a demand for your doll. When the output figures are high the price is low. It’s not advisable to push the price.

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The Barbie doll wiki: The truth about her collectors

Believe it or not, but there is a truth about all her collectors. The truth is that her admirers are all different. They have different motives to collect. What we all have in common is the passion for one doll – Barbie doll. Some consider her as shero, icon, object of desire or childhood memory. Some try to look like Barbie or they have a Barbie tattoo or do strange things with their bodies to look like Barbie. I think I differ from my fellow collectors in the case that I don’t want simply to collect or have a look at the dolls but I also want to learn. The learning motive is something likely to be forgotten.

Do I need only one motive to collect?

When the TV people come they are always open for sensations. You often read about the proportion stuff. You know her body is unrealistic. I know it too, but I never felt the desire to look like Barbie. My motives are different. I’ve been interested in learning about fashion and fashion history since I was ten years old. At that time I had the first lessons in history and we learned about ancient Egypt and I wondered how the people back then ran around. What did they wear? Did the wall paintings in the Pyramids tell the truth? Could somebody wear the fashion from back then nowadays? I know not every 10-year old girl would ask herself these questions, but I’ve had a thirst for knowledge.

Brand-awareness in pre-teens?

In the mid 90s when I was 10 years old I saw my fellow classmates wearing fashion from certain brands. The older we grew the more brands appeared. I also started to wonder what these brands wanted to tell me. How did the fashions looked like? That was the time when many Designer Labels did a Barbie doll like Macy, Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein and many more. The clothes themselves were way much too expensive for me, but I saw it as a way to have something from these brands at home. Something in the long run, not like the clothes you wear and throw away later. I really loved the Escada Barbie from 1996 the first time ever I saw her in a catalog. I have some of the Designer Barbies from the mid 1990s but not all. I sold my regular Playline Barbie dolls for the Designer Barbie dolls. They were very expensive back then. Little did I know about what would later come.

Interests in collecting expanded

I’m a long time collector and I don’t regret it to be one. Collecting things is in my blood. I got the genes from my parents. I started back in1996 and I knew I wanted to be a collector. For 10 years collecting itself was okay, but my interests expanded. My interest in Playline dolls, the ones with the pink boxes that you’ve probably seen until the early 2000s grew. So I started also to collect some 90s Barbie dolls I had when I was little. They were not expensive back then and ebay the place to go. That was the time my interest changed for the first time a bit, but it wasn’t the only time. In the early 2000s amazon offered books in Germany too, and it was the first time I had access to them. Before it was complicated to order non-German books.

Social Media is helpful

So after my first book purchases from amazon I learned about early Barbie fashions, identification and got in contact with other collectors for the first time. That’s good and bad at the same time. It’s good because you can learn a lot, meet new friends and buy Barbie dolls you are looking for. You can learn about the release of new dolls. That’s positive, but there are also negative effects like stalkers. They try to give you a hard time. Like in every community there is jealousy. I found my interest in doing extended research and doing repairs the Social Media. I saw some other collectors did it and I tried it and had success.

No negative effects in my life

I’ve never had the wish to transform myself into a Barbie doll. That may attract other persons, but I’ve never had the wish. Barbie is good the way she is. No doubts. I’ve learned many things and read about interesting books I’ve probably never read without my interest in this fashion doll. I’ve even learned languages with her help, but I realized it all later. My interest in sewing fashions grew. I started to deal with making patterns for Barbie dresses. The understanding of techniques is what I want. I have many more books that wait for me. Let’s see if I can learn Japanese to get more knowledge. I know that’s crazy, but it’s me.