By Ani Morgan
Elvis. Barbie. Two figures so iconic, they’re addressed by single names only and need no introduction at all. Put these legends together and a new kind of superstar is born – one you truly “can’t help falling in love” with! The Barbie Signature Elvis Presley Barbie Doll celebrates Elvis’ larger-than-life legacy in a thoroughly refreshing way – with Barbie® herself personifying the spirit of Elvis.
Elvis dolls are not new to Mattel. From Barbie Loves Elvis to a set featuring Elvis and Priscilla Presley on their wedding day, the King of Rock 'n' Roll has long graced collector shelves in Ken doll form. Now, twenty years after Mattel’s original rendition of Elvis Presley in the Eagle Jumpsuit, Barbie takes the spotlight in her own version of the same legendary look.
“One reason why we did Barbie doll as Elvis was the ‘coolness’ factor of a female in more masculine clothing,” designer Linda Kyaw-Merschon explains. “It’s very empowering and quite reflective of the times.”
Like the original stage ensemble, Barbie doll’s bell-bottomed jumpsuit is embellished with sparkling eagles in red, gold, and blue and includes an attached cape and scarf. Inspired by Elvis’ signature accessories, she also wears white pointy-toed boots and a “turquoise” ring. Completing the iconic look is a sleek pompadour ponytail – a nod to Elvis’ trademark hairstyle, but with a very Barbie twist.
Merging two iconic figures into one poses challenges, to be sure. “When working on such a high profile, well-known and beloved person, the challenge is making sure you are doing it the justice that it deserves,” says Linda. “Every stitch, every color, every possibility has been thoughtfully worked through by the entire talented team.”
Those challenges are well worth the gorgeous end results. “There is nothing like taking two things you love and merging them for the ultimate historical moment,” Linda continues. “Both are icons in their own right, so it's always exciting to see how the combination will play out. As you can see, this one is quite memorable!”
When it came to selecting which show-stopping look Barbie would bring to life, the choice was clear. “We looked for some of the most heroic pieces in Elvis' wardrobe,” Linda says. “He had great, impeccable, and unique style. We had already done the gold lamé outfit on Barbie doll years ago, and the remarkable 'American Eagle' jumpsuit was the next obvious choice. My favorite element is the eagle icon in the back, of course!”
Elvis Presley Barbie Doll makes her timely debut during Elvis Week and retails for $50. This Gold Label stunner will have a two per person purchase limit, while supplies last. (This limit is subject to change at a later date.)
Elvis and Barbie fans alike will delight in this magnificent fusion of two genuine icons, so if you want to add her to your collection, don’t wait. As Elvis himself once beautifully crooned, “It’s now or never!”
ELVIS™ and ELVIS PRESLEY™ are trademarks of ABG EPE IP LLC
Rights of Publicity and Persona Rights: Elvis Presley Enterprises, LLC
© 2021 ABG EPE IP LLC
elvis.com
- 8
- 1
Recommended Comments
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.