It was an unlikely theme for a collection showcased at the prestigious semi-annual Fashion Week held recently in New York. After all, what was Barbie doing there? Haven’t the older girls dumped Barbie for more edgy dolls such as MGA Entertainment’s Bratz range or for video games and electronic toys?

But Mattel, the world’s largest toy maker, was using the show not only to mark the Fiftieth year celebration of this classic doll’s inception, but also to try and make Barbie fashionable again and boost flagging sales. As pink curtains parted to show video images of Barbie over the years, the first model hit the runway in a black and white bathing suit reminiscent of the first generation Barbie. The runway was taken over by models in dresses designed by 50 top names in the fashion world such as Vera Wang, Badgley Mischka, Tommy Hilfilger and Calvin Klein.

The designs not only portrayed past and present looks of the classic doll in colors like black, red and pink and long blond ponytails, but also looked ahead with some futuristic looks and equally futuristic hairstyles.

This fashion icon of Mattel Inc cannot be ignored easily and will continue to hold a special place in the lives of most girls. As Hilfilger observed, “Barbie is the quintessential American icon. She represents a woman’s first experience with style, transcending generations and cultures; she holds a special place in the fashion world and is an inspiration to many designers,”

Via : Reuters Life