Barbie 2023: Take a look at the evolution of Barbie since 1969

By Emma Downey

Published 21st Jul 2023, 15:45 GMT

As Barbie mania sweeps the nation with the release of the hotly anticipated movie starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, we take a look back at the much loved dolls evolution over the years.

From Astronaut Barbie to CEO Barbie, take a look at the 9 pictures of a doll who has been a role model for everyone and sparking imaginations since March 9, 1959.

Margot Robbie (left) stars as Barbie in the 2023 movie released today (July 21)

. Barbie through the years

Margot Robbie (left) stars as Barbie in the 2023 movie released today (July 21) Photo: UGC

On March 9, 1959, Barbie debuted at the New York Toy Fair. The first Barbie wore a black and white striped swimsuit and her signature ponytail

. 1959 Barbie

On March 9, 1959, Barbie debuted at the New York Toy Fair. The first Barbie wore a black and white striped swimsuit and her signature ponytail Photo: Barbie Media

Before women were even allowed to open their own bank accounts, Barbie bought her first Dreamhouse in 1962 - becoming a symbol of independence and empowerment

. 1962 First Dreamhouse

Before women were even allowed to open their own bank accounts, Barbie bought her first Dreamhouse in 1962 - becoming a symbol of independence and empowerment Photo: Barbie Media

In 1965, Barbie went galactic four years before man landed on the moon. Dressed in a cool space suit and helmet, she showed girls they could reach for the stars.

. 1965 Astronaut Barbie

In 1965, Barbie went galactic four years before man landed on the moon. Dressed in a cool space suit and helmet, she showed girls they could reach for the stars. Photo: Barbie Media

Margot Robbie (left) stars as Barbie in the 2023 movie released today (July 21)

1. Barbie through the years

Margot Robbie (left) stars as Barbie in the 2023 movie released today (July 21) Photo: UGC

On March 9, 1959, Barbie debuted at the New York Toy Fair. The first Barbie wore a black and white striped swimsuit and her signature ponytail

2. 1959 Barbie

On March 9, 1959, Barbie debuted at the New York Toy Fair. The first Barbie wore a black and white striped swimsuit and her signature ponytail Photo: Barbie Media

Before women were even allowed to open their own bank accounts, Barbie bought her first Dreamhouse in 1962 - becoming a symbol of independence and empowerment

3. 1962 First Dreamhouse

Before women were even allowed to open their own bank accounts, Barbie bought her first Dreamhouse in 1962 - becoming a symbol of independence and empowerment Photo: Barbie Media

In 1965, Barbie went galactic four years before man landed on the moon. Dressed in a cool space suit and helmet, she showed girls they could reach for the stars.

4. 1965 Astronaut Barbie

In 1965, Barbie went galactic four years before man landed on the moon. Dressed in a cool space suit and helmet, she showed girls they could reach for the stars. Photo: Barbie Media

In support of Equal Rights, Barbie released Christie, one of the first black dolls. Christie was created as a friend of Barbie and came dressed in a mod-inspired swimsuit with a short ’60s hairstyle

5. 1968 Barbie Introduces Christie

In support of Equal Rights, Barbie released Christie, one of the first black dolls. Christie was created as a friend of Barbie and came dressed in a mod-inspired swimsuit with a short ’60s hairstyle Photo: Barbie Media

In 1985, Barbie launched the We Girls Can Do Anything ad campaign. The series of ads encouraged girls to believe in themselves and their dreams

6. 1985 CEO Barbie

In 1985, Barbie launched the We Girls Can Do Anything ad campaign. The series of ads encouraged girls to believe in themselves and their dreams Photo: Barbie Media

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