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As the release date for the much awaited #Barbie inches closer, we decided to dive into the fabulous Barbie-world to learn more about her history and impact on our world.
How It All Began
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Barbie was invented by Ruth Handler. Barbie was created after Ruth’s daughter noticed the only dolls in the market were babies. Named after her daughter Barbara, Barbie was born in 1959, in a postwar era to inspire girls to aim high, challenge stereotypes and believe in working jobs that men have.
What Barbie Represents
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From the start the intention of the makers was to manifest Barbie as a symbol of empowerment and with that in mind they showcased Barbie in diverse careers like doctors, astronauts, and even country leaders. They tried to shatter the proverbial glass ceiling long before it became a buzzword. Their message was clear: embrace your passions, believe in yourself, and never let anyone tell you that you can’t achieve your dreams. They wanted Barbie to be a constant reminder that we have the power to shape our own destinies and make a positive impact on the world.
Barbie’s Evolution in Our World
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Fast forward to today, and Barbie is still making waves in our world. She continues to evolve and reflect the changing times. Now, you can find Barbies of different ethnicities, body types, and abilities. It’s all about celebrating diversity and embracing the beauty of individuality. Barbie is a champion for inclusivity, proving that there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to being fabulous.
How Barbie Conquered the Fashion World
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Barbie became a global phenomenon as a result of smart marketing strategies and innovative collaborations. From fashion shows to memorable partnerships with designers, Barbie has always been at the forefront of style and fashion. She has graced the covers of magazines, stars in TV commercials, and even has her own line of clothing and accessories. Barbie is so much more than a doll; she’s a fashion icon, a feminist, inspiring girls and boys around the world to not only take risks in fashion, but also their lives.
Impact of Society’s Misconception
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In a world where everyone is unique, Barbie stands tall as a symbol of self-expression and confidence. This wasn’t always how Barbie was marketed to children. Though created to inspire young girls to dream big, early on advertising led society to believe Barbie’s purpose was to only look perfect. Playing with a Barbie was termed hyper-feminine and dumb. Since Barbie’s purpose was to only wear nice clothes and look pretty, young girls who played with them were termed and looked upon through the same lens. The blame of peddling unrealistic body standards through Barbie lies with society. Twisting Barbie’s true purpose, and using her as a prop to influence young girls to strive to be physically perfect distorted her message of empowerment. It not only reinforces harmful beauty standards but also places unnecessary pressure on impressionable minds.
Join the Barbie Revolution
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She always existed to inspire us to embrace our individuality, to be unapologetically ourselves, and to celebrate our differences. Barbie shows us that it’s okay to stand out, to dream big, and to believe in ourselves. So, whether you’re playing with your favourite Barbie doll, dressing up like a fashionista, or simply being yourself, remember that you have the power to make a difference. Stay stylish, stay fierce, and we’ll catch you in theaters for the Barbie movie! Also that there is nothing wrong or less intellectual or empowered in wearing pink or dressing up or doing makeup. You can be a doctor, teacher, dancer etc etc and a fashionista too. Just because you like to dress up doesn’t make you any less intelligent, smart, confident or ambitious. We can be both together and not be shallow as the popular perception flows.
Image source and credits: Pinterest and Pexels. No copyright infringement intended, for inspiration purposes only. In case of any issue, shall be removed upon notification
