“My whole philosophy of Barbie was that through the doll, the little girl could be anything she wanted to be. Barbie always represented the fact that a woman has choices.”

– Ruth Handler.

A vision set 60 years ago that still rings true but one that Barbie has managed to BETTER over the years. As we celebrate our girl’s big birthday, we should take a minute to look back at the past 60 years…

It’s no secret, we are MASSIVE Barbie fans!

I still fondly remember playing with my Barbie dolls under my grandma’s big rod iron bed, imagining adventures far away. I dreamt of seeing the world and escaping small town Stilfontein. Barbie could do and be anything! As I played out my dreams I started believing I could also make them come true.

Now, years later, and far away from small town living I get to see our girls enjoy Barbie too.

With over 200 careers to date, from princess to president, astronaut to zoologist, Barbie continues to inspire limitless potential in every girl. She’s kept up with the times and represents a broader view of society (and beauty) showcasing careers typically underrepresented by women, while also highlighting role models and “Sheroes”. Some of the amazing women that she’s honoured include UK Olympian Boxer Nicola Adams, US Olympian Fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad, Body Activist and Model Ashley Graham, the first African-American Principal Ballerina in American Ballet Misty Copeland, and the Director of film Selma, Ava DuVernay.

Barbie ROLE MODELS showcase even more empowering stories to girls and introduced the “Inspiring Women” line of dolls.  Amelia Earhart, Frida Kahlo (top of this mama’s wish list) and Katherine Johnson all became apart of Barbie, getting introduced to and inspiring a brand new generation of future females.

It is through initiatives like all the ones mentioned above as well as the “Imagine the Possibilities campaign and book series“, “#dadwhoplayBarbie” and the Fashionistas range that Barbie has earned our loyalty and love.

Everyone is showing their love too…

Ackermans just released the coolest autumn / winter 2019 collection. It’s affordable fashion that all Barbie fans will love. The garments are fun and colourful with all the Barbie touches little fans look for. Every item is easy to care for and comfortable too. 

Eliana’s top picks:

• The BARBIE navy boxy track top (R99.95) with matching navy track pants (R89.95). – Snug and warm. Perfect for all those lazy days relaxing at home.
• The BARBIE black & white stripe track top (R99.95). – Paired with black leggings and cute high tops, this is definitely my number 1 choice too.

Lia has a clear favourite:

• The BARBIE pink zip through track top (R159,95) with matching pink track pants (R89.95). – Because one can never have enough pink. (I think we might be raising a future Elle Woods over here…)

These pieces, as well as a few others can be found in Ackermans stores (limited) nationwide NOW! So be sure to go spoil your little lady and maybe you could even win a something extra.

BARBIE’S 60TH BIRTHDAY SHARE & WIN!

Go to the Ackermans Facebook page, share a picture in the comment section of your little one playing with her Barbie, or wearing a Barbie outfit, and you could stand to win a hamper for her and 3 friends to the value of R2 000. 

QUICK GUYS get entering TODAY!

Full T&C available here.