It was a glorious year for little girls. It was 1959 and Mattel released a creation of Ruth Handler called the Barbie Doll. Little girls across America were instantly enchanted and the rest is history.
As the Barbie Doll arrived to each home, the next essential need was the wardrobe. Which means, of course, loving Moms pulled out the cloth, scissors and yarn and started sewing, crocheting and knitting clothes fashion outfits for the beloved doll. This, of course, drove the pattern companies to start issuing patterns for those outfit.
I have several of these patterns from the early 1960's found mainly in over-the-counter magazines (like McCalls Needlecraft), as well as several Mail Order Designs. Here, let me show you a few.
Design 525 - Crocheted Bride and Bridemaid's Gowns. Just about every little girl would want these outfits.
Sweet Teen Bride is another bridal outfit (or great party dress without the veil). Did you notice the pineapples?. This pattern was issued as a Coat's and Clarks Leaflet.
Design 199 - Mail Order Pattern - Most likely Anne Cabots. This Design gives us a coat, top, skirt, hat and two choice dresses.
Design 7362, Crocheted Doll's Wardrobe. This Mail Order Design is in the Alice Brooks number series, and gives mix and match options consistent with the times .... notice the ripple poncho.
Tea Time Ensemble - This pattern from The Workbasket features more variations on mix and match options.
Just for fun, a little Barbie Trivia ...
- Birthdate: March 9, 1959
- Born: Willows, Wisconsin (a fictional place)
- First Outfit: One Piece Swimsuit
- First Hairstyle: Ponytail
I have no doubt a fair number more Fashion Doll patterns will be added to this small collection as I have a a HUGE amount of patterns I've yet to work my way through. The number will, however, be limited by what is in public domain; i.e. 1959 into early 1960's.
Thanks for dropping by,
Lorrie
Lorrie
