Originally modeled after the German fashion doll Bild Lilli, the first Barbie debuted in her iconic black-and-white striped swimsuit with a signature ponytail, available in both blonde and brunette. Over the decades, Barbie has evolved to reflect changing social norms and professional landscapes:
Since her debut at the American International Toy Fair on , Barbie —whose full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts —has transcended her status as a mere toy to become a global cultural icon. Created by Ruth Handler and manufactured by Mattel, Inc., the doll was inspired by Handler watching her daughter, Barbara, play with paper dolls of adult women. Handler realized a gap in the market for a toy that allowed girls to imagine their future adult lives rather than just practicing motherhood with baby dolls. The Evolution of an Icon barbie doll