Audrey Hepburn Barbie

The glorification of certain movies, icons, and celebrities are all components of pop culture. A summation of pop cultural values held during a certain time can be seen through studying movies, icons, and celebrities. This idea is furthered when year in review videos feature a clip from a hit movie as well as celebrities and other influences that were popular at a certain time. Since Barbie helps preserve these components of pop culture, she can serve as a marker for pop cultural values held during a specific time. Simply put, Barbie is representative of pop culture throughout her time. As pop culture changes, so do Barbie models; they are reflective of the valued culture. Mattel has preserved pop culture through its production of certain Barbies that are representative of specific movie characters, icons, and celebrities.

The picture on the right is an Audrey Hepburn inspired Barbie, depicting her role in the iconic movie, Breakfast at Tiffany's. This 1961 movie gained much fame during this time period and continues to be known as a classic. If one researched the 1960s, this movie would appear; it defined this era. The movie was not only highly valued, but also the chic designs Audrey wore in it led to many women trying to copy her signature look. Releasing this Barbie in 1998, illustrates that her timeless designs and iconography was valued/ and continues to be even years after the movie was produced. 

Hepburn's elegance and class continues to be admired by many in society. The signature black dress and strands of pearls she is wearing remain culturally valued. Furthermore, due to Hepburn's iconography as an individual who exudes class, she has become a symbol of femininity. The production of this Barbie, with attention to creating it 37 years after the film, showcases the value of not only the film, but also of elegance and class during 1998 and beyond.

Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's Barbie, Mattel 1998

Cher Barbie, Mattel 2001

Cher is a musical idol who was especially popular during the early 2000s. By having Mattel create a Cher Barbie during this time, the 2000s pop culture is being preserved and remembered.

Karl Lagerfeld Barbie, Mattel 2014

Karl Lagerfeld was a leading fashion designer. After taking over the House of Chanel he rose to great popularity. His infamous sleek black look became iconic. From the mid 2000s to present, high end fashion has been extremely valued. This 2014 Barbie illustrates the value society has for luxury items.

TommyXGigi Barbie, Mattel 2017

Gigi Hadid gained most of her popularity in 2017 as a fashion model. While the other Barbies are representative of elegance, class, musical innovation, and luxury, this Barbie looks less accessorized. Mattel conveys that while high end brands are still valued in society  (wearing a Tommy Hillfiger sweatshirt), a more casual and comfort look is representative of the culture.