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Home • News

Black Barbie

Black Barbie
By Essence · Updated October 29, 2020
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01
BFF

Seems we aren’t the only ones who fell in love with Black Barbies, as Italian Vogue dedicates an entire issue to the stylish icon. Reminisce on the chic
fashionista and share your Barbie memories.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
02
Foxy Brown

Christie, Barbie’s Black Friend was introduced in 1967. The funky 1971 edition’s boho fashion made her a decade favorite.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
03
Agile Beauty

In celebration of the 50th anniversary of Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater Mattel presents the first ever Barbie doll to be inspired by a dance company and designed by Artistic Director Judith Jamison. The doll is dressed in a flowing white lace costume worn in the “Wade in the Water” section of Alvin Ailey’s masterpiece Revelations.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
04
Pretty in Pink

The 2009 Holiday Barbie Doll bedazzles and gets you in the spirit of the season.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
05
First Lady

In 1980, the first African-American Barbie was dressed fashionably in a two piece that converted into a bathing suit for fun in the sun.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
06
Rip the Runway

In 1999, the fashionable Byron Lars Plum Royale Barbie Plum Royale Barbie doll, exudes style and grace from head to toe.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
07
Nubian Queen

In 2007, Byron Lars’ Mbili is brought to life in a highly dramatic ensemble of feathers and beads. Azure blue boots bring a final air of contemporary, couture chic.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
08
Beach Beauty

In 1973, Barbie created Malibu Christie, who was simply golden.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
09
With Care

in 1969, they released a Barbie inspired by Diann Carroll’s onscreen character Julia from her hit series.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
Mattel
10
Sister to Sister

The So In Style collection, is more hip and cool and based on reflections of every Black women. Sporty sisters Grace and Courtney are keepsakes.

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Black Barbie
11
Urban Chic

Designer Byron Lars’ Coco Barbie doll was inspired by the young, chic crowd and as fashion forward as they come.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie
12
The Professional

The 2006 Robert Best Barbie exudes simple elegance and power.

See what Joy Bryant has to say about Black Barbies »

Black Barbie