Hobbies And Interests
History
When Barbie debuted in 1959, she wore a black and white striped swimsuit, earrings, sunglasses and open-toe black shoes. Since that time, she has worn everything from ball gowns to tennis clothes, and there are hundreds of items on the market to complete her vast wardrobe.
Information about Clothes
A great deal of collector's information is available on the Internet at a number of websites, and extensive catalogs of dolls and their clotting are available in bookstores and online. Color photos or drawings help the collector identify the era of production.
Mint Condition
As with nearly any collectible unless it happens to be very rare, the condition of Barbie clothing affects its desirability. Items in mint condition and still in original packaging can be worth up to hundreds of dollars.
Used Condition
Most Barbie clothing shows some signs of use unless it has been set aside for years. Soil, stains, tears, fading and holes all may result from handling the doll's clothing and will reduce the value of the item to collectors.
Accessories
Almost as important to Barbie clothing collectors as the dresses and pantsuits are the thousands of accessories designed to complete her outfits. Shoes, handbags, hats, luggage, sports paraphernalia and just about anything a woman could wear or carry characterize the detail of Barbie's fashions.
New Clothing
A few enterprising collectors are making and selling new Barbie clothing for vintage dolls. You can find these on Internet auction sites as well as at hobby shows and other gatherings. The prices of the vintage dolls dressed in new clothing are often quite high.