‘Barbie, life of an icon’ displays 700 plastic figures at the Museum of Decorative Dolls.
The colourful collection features models who ‘walk’ the catwalk in high-fashion creations from the likes of Christian Lacroix and Jean Paul Gaultier – as well as historical figures including former Queen of France, Marie Antoinette.
Although Barbie has become an icon, her presence in popular culture has been widely criticised – in particular for her unrealistic dimensions, which some argue can make young girls focus on their own appearances.
The doll has tried to be a more positive role model in recent years by focusing on Barbie’s widening career choices. Mattel is also planning to launch a range of dolls which embody a variety of skin colours and body shapes.
‘Barbie’ runs to September 18, 2016, at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, France.