BARBIE: A CULTURAL ICON; 65 YEARS OF FASHION AND INSPIRATION @ MAD MUSEUM

Barbie in a ball gown in @MadMuseum's Barbie: A Cultural Icon exhibit

Growing up in the 80s, Barbie was more than a doll--she was beautiful, stylish and a symbol of endless possibilities. Ready for adventure with coiffed hair, convertible and handsome Ken in tow, Barbie could be anything--a doctor, an astronaut or the belle of the ball. Even for a tomboy like me, the idea of speeding off into the sunset in a shiny corvette seemed exciting. Now, six and a half decades after her debut, the Museum of Arts and Design celebrates the iconic doll's timeless appeal with a tribute exhibit, Barbie: A Cultural Icon. Keep reading for a look inside.

The first Barbie (1959) with black and white striped swimsuit

What makes Barbie truly special is the thrill of the imagination she inspires. Barbie: A Cultural Icon brings the doll’s timeless appeal to life, featuring over 250 figurines displayed across six thoughtfully curated sections, along with photographs, videos and explanations. Five unique photo opportunities await; it was hard to move my son away from the pink convertible! Favorites across the exhibit include Fantasy Goddess of Africa Barbie, astrophysicist Barbie and all the dolls sporting Best Buy Fashions. The display likens the Barbie box and 

1959 Original Ensembles of Barbie

Curated by Barbara Feder with pieces from David Porcello and Mattel’s private collections, the exhibit showcases Barbie's transformation across generations, reflecting the cultural shifts she’s inspired. Running until March 16, 2025, this exhibit invites everyone to step into Barbie’s multifaceted world—where playfulness meets history and imagination knows no bounds. Definitely worth a visit for Barbie fans!

Variety of Barbies in Best Buy Fashions

Installation view

A variety of Barbie in different professions 

Fun loving Barbie and the ultra 'vette

Trendy Barbie

 

Barbie being part of a fashion revolution with mini skirts

Barbie showcases First Lady fashion

First Ken doll (1961)

Barbie showcases many different careers for women throughout the years

Barbie and social media

Maxi 'n mini outfit (1970) on Living Barbie doll

Twirly Curls Barbie in Oscar de la Renta dress (1987-88)

Fantasy Goddess of Africa Barbie doll (1999)

Barbie the Movie collectible car and dolls

Installation view - careers and space

Space exploring Barbie (an astrophysicist in there too!)

Barbie embodies representation in its dolls

Moschino outfit + corresponding Barbie

Barbie beach culture

Behind the scenes-a view into the creative process

Barbie has been an inspirational icon for girls through the ages 

Barbie serves as a mini model for all types of fashion!

Introductory wall for the exhibition