"Barbie has always represented that a woman has choices. Even in her early years, Barbie did not have to settle for only being Ken's girlfriend or an inveterate shopper. she had the clothes, for example, to launch a career as a nurse, a stewardess, a nightclub singer. I believe the choices Barbie represents helped the doll catch on initially, not just with daughters--who would one day make up the first wave of women in management and professionals--but also with mothers."--Ruth Handler, Inventor of Barbie.

"Since her first appearance on March 9, 1959 (making her a Pisces), Barbara Millicent Roberts, or Barbie, as she's most famously known, is and has been a trendsetter, global icon, and pop culture mainstay--for more than fifty years. Barbie has captured the imaginations of people across the globe, and remains the most coveted doll in history. She's is truly an icon. Barbie has broken cultural, social, and linguistic barriers, all while showcasing a fabulous fashion sense. Barbie has had close to 150 careers, represented over 40 different nationalities, and collaborated with more than 75 different fashion designers including the likes of Valentino, Versace, Dior, Gucci, Calvin Klein, Vivienne Westwood, Prada, and Givenchy. She serves as an imitable idol to many, and is in countless ways more than just a doll; she is a true inspiration to people all around the world. This definitive collection of everything Barbie is organized into five categories: Barbie is fashion; Barbie's family; Dolls of the world; Barbie's careers; and Queen, diva and Celebrity, Barbie as global icon. Barbie: The Icon celebrates the impact Barbie has had on popular and high culture for three generations in every arena from style to fashion to careers, making her the voice of the contemporary woman, an enduring image of pop culture, and in many ways, a genuine living legend. A must-have for every Barbie aficionado, here is a trip down memory lane, and encyclopedia of possibility, and a wonderful resource--it's a reference not to be missed."--Jacket.