In Part 2, we dive into the details and design elements that make up the vintage Barbie collection. By understanding these key characteristics and notable outfits, we will gain a deeper appreciation for vintage Barbie's unique style. This knowledge will serve as a foundation for recreating her iconic looks while allowing for personal interpretation and creativity.
The Original Barbie's wardrobe embodied the optimism and style of the late 1950s, featuring classic silhouettes and playful designs. Here are some specific iconic outfits from this era:
The Picnic Set
Outfit Description: Checked gingham shirt with dark denim jeans tailored with a zipper fly.
Recommended Patterns to re-create this look for an 18-inch doll:
- Liberty Jane Capri Pants or Liberty Jane Jeans (high-waisted jeans have a front closure)
- Peppermintsticks Friendship Top
- Miche Designs Cork Wedge Sandals
- Flossie Potter Sweetie Pie Hat
Solo In The Spotlight
Outfit Description: Dramatic black glitter gown with bare shoulders rose corsage on nylon net flounce.Long black nylon tricot gloves, black shoes. Pink scarf and bead necklace.
Recommended Patterns to re-create this look for an 18-inch doll:
- Eden Ava Spotlight Solo Dress Pattern
- Love U Bunches Plain Janes (Made in satin)
- Miche Designs Krissy Sandals
- Ma Petite Cherie Diamond Sandals
Casual Cotton
Outfit Description: Sparkling navy and white stripe cotton play dress. Contrasting ribbons accent the empire waistline. White summer shoes.
Recommended Patterns to re-create this look for an 18-inch doll:
- Liberty Jane Country Mart Dress (princess seams allow for diagonal stripe placement on bodice, change to a simple rectangular gathered skirt)
- Liberty Jane Opening Night Dress (use bodice with a simple rectangular gathered skirt)
- Forever 18 Inches Earth Angel
Barbie-Q Set
Outfit Description: Cotton sunback dress with chef hat and apron. Barbecue cooking utensils and potholder. White Summer shoes.
Recommended Patterns to re-create this look for an 18-inch doll:
- Forever 18 inches Geometry Dress
- Love U Bunches 1960s Retro Apron (add a bib with neck ties)
Examples from the Sewing With Cinnamon community!
1965 Senior Prom Dress
Outfit Description: Stunning ice blue and sea green satin and tulle formal gown for the senior prom. Green satin bodice with blue trim, green and blue variegated tulle overskirt. Matching green dancing shoes.
Liana re-created this look using the Liberty Jane Opening Night dress bodice with a simplified gathered skirt.
Enchanted Evening
Outfit Description: Formal floor length gown with flowing train, in the elegance of pink satin. Simulated pearl necklace and drop earrings. Pink dancing pumps with silver glitter. White tricot elbow gloves. White fur stole.
Liana re-created this look using the Liberty Jane Opening Night dress bodice with a simplified rectangular gathered skirt. She used a wide rectangle for the skirt that extended past center back to create the draped section on the end (with the flowers). Then I wrapped the long end of the skirt around to the front and put two snaps at the waist to secure it.
Gloves can be made from the LUB Princess Anya pattern or the Even Ava Spotlight Solo pattern.
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Kimberly Gluvna
October 17, 2024
I also have the American Girl Barbie. Along with Pixie Packs, maybe a sew along. I’m not quite at the Intermediate level of sewing.