Keeping track of all the product lines, is nearly impossible, so I’ve compiled a list of seven popular Barbie collections. Some are official lines, named and categorized by Mattel, others are logical groupings I’ve compiled to help all you Barbie collectors out. Without further ado, here’s 7 Barbie Collections every collector needs to know:

This collection is the longest running Barbie Collection with the first Barbies released in 1980. When Mattel created these dolls, they had designers meet with each country’s consulates. This ensured the dolls accurately portrayed their culture and country. Each year Mattel released 2-5 dolls in this collection with each dolls representing its own nation.

This famous and sought-after Barbie line was expanded three times. In 2000 the Princess Collection was added, then in 2005 Barbie added the Festivals of the World line. Finally in 2010, the landmark collection was added. 

2. Pink Box Barbies

Barbie pink is an instantly recognizable color. While the most avid Barbie collectors seek out all Barbies, those in pink boxes, especially the older dolls, were designed for children rather than collectors. If you’re on the hunt for a unique child’s toy, this line is the best place to start!

Though Barbie’s had hundreds of careers, collectors often know her best for her jaw dropping gowns created by world famous fashion designers. The Fashion Model collection was launched in the 1980’s. These Barbie’s include clothes, accessories, hair and makeup all professionally designed. Included in this line are Barbies designed by Badgley Miscka, Bob Mackie (my personal favorite), Anne Klein, Todd Oldham and Daniel Hetcher.

Fun Fact: In the 2009 New York Fashion Show, fashion designers made life sized replicas of their Barbie Designs. Check ‘em out here.

4. Holiday Barbies

Many Barbie collectors start by collecting the annual Holiday Barbies. Mattel has released one doll in this line each year since 1988. These dolls always feature Barbie in a stunning gown. In later years, multiple varieties were produced for each year, such as African American dolls, blond dolls, and brunette dolls. The 1988 version of this doll is highly sought after, and in mint condition, she often sells for over $300! Other years are much more affordable, so if you’re looking to start a Barbie collection, this line is for you!

Kelly is the younger sister of Barbie. Where Barbie is an adult, Kelly and her friends are smaller dolls about half the size of a typical Barbie. Kelly dolls are more often played with than collected, but something about their smaller size makes them so cute! If you’re looking for an affordable way to start your Barbie collection, Kelly dolls are the perfect place to get started.

6. Hollywood Stars

Mattel has an official Hollywood Legends collection Featuring stars like Scarlett O’Hara. But I've expanded this collection to include Barbies inspired by any movie or show. Some of the most sought after Barbies feature Barbie as Lucy from I Love Lucy, but she also portrays characters from The Wizard of Oz, Grease, Snoopy, and Scooby-Doo, just to name a few. 

Over the years Barbie has released dolls as, Limited Edition, Special Edition, Collectors Edition, Premium Label and more. A deep dive into this is a blog post for another day, but in 2015 Mattel released updated standards and production limits for their premium label barbies. This system has 4 tiers:

Pink Label: Though there is no limit to the number of Pink Label Barbies produced, these dolls are often extremely popular and are considered to be keepsake collector's items. 

Silver Label: These dolls are sold at select retailers and are limited to 50,000 sold worldwide.

Gold Label: Similar to the silver level, however the production limit is just 25,000 dolls.

Platinum Label: These are the most unique and rare collector's edition dolls. Mattel commits to only producing 1,000 of any Platinum Label doll. 

Whether you’re a long time Barbie collector, or just getting started, these 7 product lines are sure to enhance your collection. If you’re curious about the inspiration behind the original Barbie dolls, read our blog post here. If you’re interested in expanding into other collectibles, then this post is for you!

As always, thanks for being here friend. I LOVE sharing my knowledge of collectibles with the Fam’! Be sure to check back next week for another fun blog post : )