Barbie 50th Anniversary Fashion Show Mercedes Benz Fashion Week Fall 2009 The Tents at Bryant Park February 14, 2009 Written by Kim Weling Photographed by Katherin Wermke Opposite Photo: Rachel Roy Design

Barbie celebrated her love for fashion, just in time for Valentine’s Day during Mercedes-Benz Fall 2009 Fashion Week. To help celebrate Barbie’s 50th anniversary, 50 of the world’s most renowned fashion designers came together to showcase their Barbie-inspired looks. The show started with the history and evolution of Barbie, from classic to modern day.

It was exciting to see each look coming down the runway and know just who designed it. Designs included Diane Von Furstenberg’s timeless wrap dress, a fun frilly green dress from Betsey Johnson, a low cut halter, mini skirt and fur coat from Baby Phat – accessorized with sunglasses and bag, and a short flirty frock from Juicy Couture. Bob Mackie, Monique Lhuillier and Reem Acra provided more of a ‘Barbie on the red carpet’ look while Rachel Roy’s design was a black and white zebra striped swimsuit, worn on the original 1959 Barbie. The original Barbie was given out to all attendees, including a program book including the 50 designers and their Barbie-inspired looks, along with chocolate from Dylan’s Candy Bar. Ken even made a runway appearance, with Barbie by his side wearing an “EVERYONE NEEDS A KEN” t-shirt, both outfitted by Kenneth Cole.

In addition to the show, the lobby at the tents was decorated a display of ‘original Barbie’ dolls, iconic Barbie photography and original Rootstein ‘Barbie’ mannequins.

Shoe designer Christian Louboutin designed Barbie's pink shoes. Stila Pro was responsible for creating the look of life-size Barbies.

Naeem Khan Design	Charles Chang-Lima Design
Yigal Azrouel Design	Lyn Devon Design
Baby Phat Design	Norma Kamali Design
Nanette Lepore Design	Diane Von Furstenberg Design
Jeremy Scott Design	Tommy Hilfiger Design
Tibi Design	Betsey Johnson Design
House of Field by Patricia Field	Rachel Roy Design
Monique Lhuiller Design	Reem Acra Design
Tuleh Design	Kenneth Cole Design