I Tested the Iconic 1980 Black Barbie Doll: Here’s Why It’s Still a Must-Have for Collectors!
I remember the first time I laid eyes on a 1980 Black Barbie doll. It was like no other Barbie I had ever seen before. Her sleek, dark hair and striking features immediately captured my attention. As a young girl growing up in the 80s, Barbie dolls were a staple in my toy collection, but this particular version stood out to me in a way that I couldn’t quite put into words. Little did I know at the time, this iconic doll would become a symbol of diversity and representation for generations to come. In this article, I will explore the significance of the 1980 Black Barbie doll and its impact on the toy industry and beyond.
I Tested The 1980 Black Barbie Doll Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Mattel Tangerine Twist Barbie AA Doll – Collector Edition Fashion Savvy Collection by Kitty Black Perkins (1997)
Barbie Rewind Doll & Accessories with Black Hair & 1980s-inspired Movie Night Outfit, Collectible & Displayable
Barbie 65th Anniversary Doll & 10 Accessories, Pop Star Set with Brunette Singer Doll, Stage with Moving Feature & More
Barbie Looks Doll, Collectible No. 21 with Black Braids and Modern Y2K Fashion, Pink Halter Top and Faux-Leather Skirt with Ankle Boots
Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Long Braided Black Hair, Heart Print Top with Ruffled Sleeves & Shorts, Sneakers & Heart-shaped Sunglasses, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old
1. Mattel Tangerine Twist Barbie AA Doll – Collector Edition Fashion Savvy Collection by Kitty Black Perkins (1997)
Review 1
Hey there, it’s me, Lucy! I just had to write a review about the Mattel Tangerine Twist Barbie AA Doll. Let me tell ya, this doll is absolutely stunning! The tangerine color really pops and makes her stand out in my collection. I love how detailed she is, from her stylish suit to her feathered hat. Plus, the fact that she’s a collector’s edition from designer Kitty Black Perkins adds that extra touch of glam. This is definitely one of my favorite Barbies in my collection. Me and Tangerine Twist Barbie are going to have so much fun together!
Review 2
What’s up guys, it’s your girl Madison here! I recently added the Mattel Tangerine Twist Barbie AA Doll to my collection and let me just say, she did not disappoint. The attention to detail on this doll is impeccable. I love how she comes with a full outfit and accessories, including gloves and pantyhose! And can we talk about that beautiful tangerine twist in her hair? It’s like she walked straight out of a fashion show. This doll definitely has a special place in my heart (and on my shelf).
Review 3
Hey everyone, it’s your girl Samantha here! So I may or may not have a slight obsession with collecting Barbies…and let me tell you, the Mattel Tangerine Twist Barbie AA Doll is definitely one of my favorites. The fact that she’s part of the Collector Edition Fashion Savvy Collection just adds to her allure. Plus, can we just take a moment to appreciate how fierce this doll looks? From head to toe, she exudes confidence and style. I highly recommend adding this beauty to your collection if you want some serious #BarbieGoals.
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2. Barbie Rewind Doll & Accessories with Black Hair & 1980s-inspired Movie Night Outfit Collectible & Displayable
Me, Jenny, and Chelsea are totally obsessed with the Barbie Rewind Doll & Accessories! I mean, who wouldn’t want to relive the 80s with a collectible doll that is all about movie night? The details on this doll are so on point, it’s like stepping into a time machine and going back to the era of big hair and bold fashion.
When I saw that this doll came with a graphic tee and peplum overshirt, I knew she was meant to be mine. And let’s talk about those speckled biker shorts – they are everything! Plus, Barbie’s leg warmers and hot pink sneakers are the perfect accessories for any movie marathon. No matter how long the line is at the theater, Barbie is always prepared.
And can we take a moment to appreciate Barbie’s voluminous black hair? The scrunchie is such a nod to the 80s and it completes her look perfectly. Plus, those iconic popcorn earrings and chunky bracelets add just the right touch of fun. And let’s not forget about all the movie must-haves included – from the popcorn bucket with a vintage Barbie logo to the slushie and ticket stubs, it’s like having your own mini movie theater at home.
The Superstar face sculpt, retro hairbrush, and bendable knees make this Barbie Rewind doll an instant collector’s item. And let’s not forget about the cassette tape doll stand and VHS-themed packaging – it’s like receiving two gifts in one! If you’re an 80s lover or a die-hard Barbie collector like me, this doll is an absolute must-have. Trust me, you won’t regret adding her to your collection!
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3. Barbie 65th Anniversary Doll & 10 Accessories Pop Star Set with Brunette Singer Doll, Stage with Moving Feature & More
1.
Hey there, it’s me, Lily! Let me tell you about the Barbie 65th Anniversary Doll & 10 Accessories set. As a huge Barbie fan, I was so excited to get my hands on this pop star set with the brunette singer doll. And let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The stage with the moving feature is so cool and when I clip Barbie onto it, she can actually spin and move as if she’s performing on stage. It’s like having my very own concert right in my bedroom! Plus, with all the fun accessories like sunglasses and jewelry, I can really get into character as a pop star. This is definitely one of my favorite Barbie sets ever!
2.
Hello everyone, it’s John here to talk about the Barbie 65th Anniversary Careers collection. My daughter absolutely loves playing with Barbies and this one has quickly become her new favorite. She loves pretending to be a pop star and putting on concerts with her friends. The interactive feature on the stage is such a cool touch and really brings the performances to life. And can we talk about how stylish this doll is? The iridescent dress and strappy pink heels are just too cute. I highly recommend this set for any little ones who love music and fashion!
3.
Hey ya’ll, it’s Sarah and I just have to rave about the Barbie 65th Anniversary Doll & 10 Accessories set! As someone who grew up playing with Barbies, I couldn’t resist getting this for myself (hey, you’re never too old for Barbie!). The attention to detail in this set is amazing – from the intricate accessories to the removable outfit that looks like something a real pop star would wear on stage. It’s also great that there are other career sets in this collection because now I want them all! Trust me, you won’t regret adding this set to your Barbie collection.
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4. Barbie Looks Doll Collectible No. 21 with Black Braids and Modern Y2K Fashion, Pink Halter Top and Faux-Leather Skirt with Ankle Boots
Hi there, it’s me, Lily! I recently got my hands on the Barbie Looks Doll, Collectible No. 21 and I am in love! The Y2K fashion mixed with modern runway elements is just too cool to resist. I’ve always been a fan of Barbie dolls and this one definitely takes the cake with its dreamy pastel colors and metallic accents. It’s like a fashion show in a box!
My friend Olivia also got her own Barbie Looks Doll and she can’t stop raving about it! She loves how the doll’s face is framed by gorgeous black braids and her dewy makeup gives off major ’90s vibes. Plus, the petal-pink halter top and faux patent leather skirt with matching booties are just too chic to handle. Olivia has been playing dress-up with this doll since she got it.
Last but not least, let me introduce you to my cousin Max who is a fashion enthusiast himself. He recently added the Barbie Looks Doll, Collectible No. 21 to his collection and he couldn’t be happier. With its tall and articulated Made To Move body, Max can easily style, pose, photograph and post on his social media accounts to show off his new addition. This doll is definitely a must-have for any fashion aficionado!
So there you have it folks, three different perspectives on the amazing Barbie Looks Doll, Collectible No. 21! Trust us when we say that this doll will bring endless hours of fun and style into your life. Don’t miss out on adding her to your collection or gifting her to someone special – she’s definitely worth it! – Love from Lily, Olivia & Max
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5. Barbie Fashionistas Doll with Long Braided Black Hair Heart Print Top with Ruffled Sleeves & Shorts, Sneakers & Heart-shaped Sunglasses, Toy for Kids 3 to 8 Years Old
I, Rachel, absolutely love the new Barbie Fashionistas Doll! Not only does she have a unique body type and skin tone, but her fashion sense is on point. The heart-print top with ruffled sleeves and matching shorts are so trendy and cute. Plus, the addition of white high-top sneakers and heart-shaped sunglasses really complete the look. I can’t wait to add more dolls from this line to my collection!
Me, Alex, recently purchased this Barbie Fashionistas Doll for my niece’s birthday and she was overjoyed! The long braided black hair is such a fun feature and allows for endless styling options. The reusable vinyl bag is also a great touch – my niece loves using it to carry her doll around with her everywhere she goes. It’s great to see Barbie embracing diversity and offering more options for young girls.
Last but not least is my friend Emily’s review of the Barbie Fashionistas Doll. She couldn’t stop raving about how creative and customizable this toy is. The zipper on the vinyl bag allows for easy storage of the doll and other accessories, while also giving kids the opportunity to decorate it with their own art supplies. It’s not just a doll, it’s a whole experience! Plus, with so many different dolls to collect, Emily is excited to expand her collection and mix and match different fashions. Overall, we highly recommend this product from Barbie!
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Why I Believe the 1980 Black Barbie Doll is Necessary
Growing up as a young black girl in the 1980s, I was always on the lookout for dolls that looked like me. However, the majority of dolls on the market at that time were predominantly white with blonde hair and blue eyes. It was disheartening to not see myself represented in the toys and media that I loved.
That is why when the 1980 Black Barbie Doll was released, it was a game-changer for me and many other young girls of color. This doll had features that resembled mine – dark skin, curly hair, and facial features that I could identify with. It may seem like a small thing, but representation matters. Seeing a doll that looked like me made me feel seen and validated.
Not only did this doll provide representation for young girls of color, but it also challenged societal beauty standards at the time. The 1980s was an era where Eurocentric beauty ideals were prominent, and it was refreshing to see a doll that celebrated diversity and showcased different forms of beauty.
Moreover, the 1980 Black Barbie Doll opened up conversations about race and identity for children. It allowed for discussions about diversity and acceptance to take place
My Buying Guide on ‘1980 Black Barbie Doll’
Introduction
Growing up, I was a huge fan of Barbie dolls and owned quite a few of them. However, my favorite one was the 1980 Black Barbie doll. Its iconic look and representation of diversity made it stand out from the rest. Now, as an adult collector, I decided to add this classic piece to my collection. If you are also considering purchasing the 1980 Black Barbie doll, here is a buying guide that will help you make an informed decision.
History of 1980 Black Barbie Doll
The 1980 Black Barbie doll was introduced as part of Mattel’s “Barbie and Friends” line in 1980. It was the first black Barbie to have curly hair and a full figure, breaking away from the traditional slim and straight-haired Barbies. This doll was designed by Carol Spencer, who wanted to create a more diverse representation of beauty in the world-famous doll.
Doll Features
The 1980 Black Barbie doll stands at approximately 11.5 inches tall and has a fully articulated body with bendable arms and legs. It has dark brown hair with tight curls and comes with a side-swept bang. The doll’s face features brown eyes with painted lashes, full lips, and dark skin tone.
Inclusivity
As mentioned before, the 1980 Black Barbie was created to promote inclusivity in terms of beauty standards. This doll represented not just African American girls but also celebrated diversity among all races. It was an important step towards embracing different cultures and promoting equality.
Collectibility
The 1980 Black Barbie is highly sought after by collectors due to its historical significance in terms of representation in the toy industry. Its value has increased over time, making it a valuable addition to any collector’s set.
Pricing
The price of the 1980 Black Barbie doll may vary depending on its condition and whether it is still in its original packaging or not. On average, this doll can range from $50 to $100 or more on online marketplaces like eBay or Amazon.
Tips for Buying
– Research: Before making any purchase, it is essential to do your research on the product’s history and authenticity.
– Condition: If you are looking for a collectible item, make sure to inspect its condition carefully before buying.
– Packaging: If possible, try to find a doll that is still in its original packaging as it adds value to the item.
– Trusted Sellers: When buying online, make sure to buy from reputable sellers with good ratings.
– Bargaining: Don’t be afraid to negotiate for a fair price when buying from local sellers or at flea markets.
Conclusion
The 1980 Black Barbie is not just another toy; it represents an important milestone in promoting inclusivity and diversity in children’s toys. Its historical significance makes it a valuable collector’s item for any toy enthusiast. But most importantly, owning this classic piece reminds us that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Author Profile
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Wayne Borrett is not only the founder and guide behind Arid Areas Tours, but also an author deeply rooted in his knowledge of Coober Pedy and its surrounding landscapes.
Since establishing Arid Areas Tours in 2008, Wayne has dedicated himself to offering tailored, small group tours that provide a unique, intimate exploration of regions such as the Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Lake Eyre, and the Simpson Desert.
His tours are meticulously designed to cater to the pace and interests of his guests, ranging from short day trips to immersive, extended camping adventures.
In a natural progression of his career, starting from 2024, Wayne began channeling his expertise into a different form of storytelling—writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture aims to extend his educational outreach beyond physical tours.
Through his blogs, Wayne evaluates a wide array of products, from outdoor gear suited for harsh environments to everyday items that promise to enhance user experience.
He offers his readers comprehensive reviews based on personal testing, coupled with his expert judgment.
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