We asked a few of our students about their design inspirations.
Our first student is Tara Duncan, who is studying for the OU Open Degree and has just started the third level design module T317, after successfully completing U101 and T217. She explored the design and style icon Barbie.
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The Evolution of Barbie: A Design Icon Through the Decades
In 1959, Barbie -full name Barbara Millicent Roberts- burst onto the scene, forever altering the toy industry. Unlike the traditional baby dolls that dominated the toy market, Barbie embodied adult glamour and ambition.
Designed by Ruth Handler for Mattel, Barbie was a new type of role model, created to inspire young girls to imagine a future full of possibilities. Dressed in a chic black-and-white striped swimsuit with bold red lips, the first Barbie set the tone for a revolution in both toys and design.
The 1960s: A Reflection of Mod Culture
Barbie’s design journey is a testament to the fashion and cultural trends of each decade. Barbie became a reflection of society, evolving with the shifting tides and a generation eager to break from tradition. For example, in the 1960s, she embraced the Mod era, donning vibrant miniskirts, go-go boots, and bold geometric patterns.
The 1980s: Power Dressing and Ambition
In the 1980s, the world witnessed an explosion of materialism, excess and ambition and Barbie was quick to follow. This was the decade of neon and power dressing – all of which found their way into Barbie’s wardrobe. One standout example was “Day to Night Barbie” (1985). She could effortlessly turn her sharp business suit into a glamorous evening look, representing the rise of women in the workforce who could balance both career and lifestyle.
The 199os: Embracing Diversity
The 1990s brought in a pivotal shift in Barbie’s design, as calls for representation and inclusivity led Mattel to diversify and expand Barbie’s range. Dolls of various ethnicities and body types challenged traditional beauty standards, moving towards a more accurate representation of society and empowering children to see themselves reflected in their dolls.
The 2000s: Entering the Digital Age
During this decade, there was a notable change in how children interacted with Barbie. From apps to customisable avatars, blending traditional imaginative play with new, immersive, and tech-driven experiences, Barbie embraced the digital age.
Today: Championing Diversity and Inclusion
In recent years, Barbie has continued to push boundaries, taking steps to represent a more inclusive and diverse world. Today’s Barbie’s comes in various body shapes, and skin tones, and even includes dolls with disabilities, such as Barbie’s with Down Syndrome or those using wheelchairs. This latest evolution isn’t just reflecting changing societal values, but a proactive stance on creating toys that foster inclusivity and empowerment. Barbie is no longer just about style; she’s about representation, helping children see that everyone—regardless of their appearance or abilities—can aspire to achieve their dreams.
Conclusion: Barbie as a Design Icon
Barbie’s evolution is a testament to the power of design, in shaping and responding to cultural trends. From her beginnings in 1959 as a glamourous symbol of aspiration to her current role today as a champion of diversity, Barbie’s design has always reflected the world around her, while inspiring future generations. As a product of innovation and cultural awareness, she continues to be much more than just a doll – Barbie is a true design icon, a cultural influencer, and an enduring symbol of empowerment.
Tara Duncan
If you enjoyed this exploration of the power of design, why not research the opportunity of doing our Bachelor of Design Degree which started this year with our new level 1 module T190, Design Practices.
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