50 years Barbie: a small presentation ('50 jaar Barbie')
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An ode to one of the most iconic toys: Barbie, who celebrates her 50th birthday this year.
The first Barbie travelled to the Netherlands in 1960, in the suitcase of the American niece of Dutch toy producer Hölte. In collaboration with Mattel, Hölte quickly introduced Barbie to the Dutch toy scene and it turned out to be a huge success. At the Dutch St Nicholas celebration in 1965 Barbie was an instant hit.
Barbie's controversy The Barbie presentation shows the controversy about Barbie in the earliest stage. Barbie had breasts, including nipples, and many parents condemned this features. Ken's body was also heavily discussed at Mattel, especially his genitalia. The company made a compromise; they gave Ken a 'bump' and they introduced Skipper, Barbie's younger and 'flatter' sister.
Homemade Barbie clothing The official Barbie clothing was pretty expensive and a lot of moms back in the sixties sow their own Barbie wardrobe. The presentation exhibits a small collection of homemade Barbie clothing. They reflect the spirit of the times and the different roles Barbie could adopt.
The first Barbie travelled to the Netherlands in 1960, in the suitcase of the American niece of Dutch toy producer Hölte. In collaboration with Mattel, Hölte quickly introduced Barbie to the Dutch toy scene and it turned out to be a huge success. At the Dutch St Nicholas celebration in 1965 Barbie was an instant hit.
Barbie's controversy The Barbie presentation shows the controversy about Barbie in the earliest stage. Barbie had breasts, including nipples, and many parents condemned this features. Ken's body was also heavily discussed at Mattel, especially his genitalia. The company made a compromise; they gave Ken a 'bump' and they introduced Skipper, Barbie's younger and 'flatter' sister.
Homemade Barbie clothing The official Barbie clothing was pretty expensive and a lot of moms back in the sixties sow their own Barbie wardrobe. The presentation exhibits a small collection of homemade Barbie clothing. They reflect the spirit of the times and the different roles Barbie could adopt.
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