Mattel released a new collectible Barbie doll modeled after Marilyn Monroe on the occasion of the 100th anniversary of her birth. The novelty accurately reproduces one of Monroe’s most famous looks – the same one in which she performed the Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend number in the movie Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.
Barbie wears a bright pink dress with a big bow on the back, long gloves, and massive jewelry with shiny “diamonds”. Monroe’s signature hairstyle complements the outfit. It was this 1953 release that became one of the most recognizable in Hollywood history. The original outfit, created by costume designer William Travilla, is on display this year at the Academy Film Museum in Los Angeles.
However, the new Barbie is dedicated not only to Marilyn’s style. Mattel emphasizes her role as an artist, entrepreneur, and woman ahead of her time. The doll was created in collaboration with The Estate of Marilyn Monroe, LLC.
This is not the first Barbie to resemble Monroe. Mattel has been addressing her legacy since the 1990s. The new doll became the seventh dedicated to the Hollywood icon.
The collectible Barbie Signature Marilyn Monroe Doll went on sale on August 18. Its cost is $81.