History of Barbie

On this day in 1959, Mattel’s Barbie made her big debut at the American Toy Fair in New York City. She was the first mass-produced dolls with womanly features. Not unsurprisingly, Barbie was modeled after a sexy pin-up doll named Lilli, that was marketed as a racy men’s gift in Germany. Quickly becoming a household name, Barbie is still one of the most recognized toys and brands around the world.

Over the years, Barbie has morphed into thousands of variations—including her friend Midge, little sister Skipper, African-American friend Christie, boyfriend Ken, and dozens of collector dolls modeled after famous people. Here are 20 of our favorite Barbies through the years.

Here, Sports Illustrated Barbie

Mattel