Barbie Retro Chic

 

When I learned La Musée de la Poupée was hosting a special exhibition on Barbie, quite naturally, I couldn't wait to return to Paris to see it. Whether you like Barbies or not, the 12-inch diva represents ground zero of doll collecting.

Magia2000

Magia2000

Magia2000

La Musée de la Poupée has maintained a relationship with Barbie since its 20 years of existence. Since1994, there have been seven thematic exhibitions devoted to the international icon. Moreover, it is a show that never gets old!!!



The one that's on until September 13, features Barbie and her friends elegantly dressed in their extensive wardrobe dating back largely from the first decade of their existence. Even Carol Spencer, Ann Marie Crivelli, and (since 1994) Robert Best, the designers of the years that followed, continued to be inspired by the early 1960's fashions.

Magia2000

One highlight (and real treat) of the show, features the work of Magia2000, the Italian design duet, Mario Paglino et Gianni Grossi. These two men are doll design geniuses specializing in true Haute Couture for Barbie. Inspired by the couture houses of Milan and Paris, they produce red-carpet worthy dresses, impeccably constructed, finished and hand embroidered. In a class of its own, the work is so delicate, one wonders how they are able to manipulate such minuscule beads and sequins. Magia2000 were responsible for creating a special souvenir doll for Barbie's 50th anniversary in 2009. In addition to their own made to order business, they are also official designers for Barbie events in Europe.

Magia2000

Magia2000

Magia2000

I have tried to identify as many of their creations as possible but frankly, the photos don't do their clothes justice. Alas, you should consult their leur site web for a better look at their artwork.

Magia2000

Robert Best is also well represented here. By the richness of the garments' fabrics, I imagine these must be original prototypes from the Silkstone Barbie Fashion Model line. Due to the quantity of photos in this post, I have left out photos of dolls you're likely to see at a store near you.

Magia2000

Magia2000

And of course, there are the vintage dolls dressed in their finest. About 50 Barbies were chosen to tell their story. They are part of the vast collections of Sylvia Dantec et Eric Chaletlon (also author of "Barbie en France), presented throughout 24 settings.

Magia2000

Magia2000

If you are in Paris in time to see this expo, leave the kids in the park, so you have the time to spend as much time as possible to drool over these miniature marvels. But for those of you who cannot make it here, I have posted as many photos as I thought Blogger would allow.

ENJOY!

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