Debut
Barbie Millicent Roberts made her first appearance in public on March 9, 1959 at the New York Toy Fair. Her first look was intended to mirror the sophisticated glamour of 1950s stars like Marilyn Monroe and Rita Hayworth: high arched brows, pursed red lips, a sassy pony tail with curly bangs and a coy, sideways glance. Accesssories to her black and white bathing suit were sold separately, priced from $1 to $5; initially, she came with either blonde or brunette hair.

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• Photos: Paris Couture