First Barbie

Barbie’s official birthday is March 9, 1959, the day she was unveiled to the toy industry during the New York Toy Fair. She first appeared in her iconic black-and-white striped swimsuit, and her first hairstyle was a little ponytail. She was initially marketed as a Teenage Fashion Model, available as a blonde or a brunette. Inspired by the German doll Lilli, she was the first children's doll to have full adult features. Creators Ruth Handler…