Long story short, I was gifted a chest of vintage Barbie dolls and outfits. Some of the components of the ensembles were lost, some pieces fell victim to rough play and/or the ravages of time. Everything needed freshening up and there were some blanks to fill in in most cases. In the process of sorting them, I marveled at the amazing quality of that first decade of Barbie fashions. I wanted to “do them proud” and make them complete ensembles again, so I did.

Very early on, Mattel realized that Barbie’s audience wanted in on the creative process of styling fashions different ways and so they put out these Fashion Paks that usually had a combination of tops, jackets, skirts, pants and shorts in a variety of fabrics and colors that young stylists could mix and match. Genius.

Besides these cool blue short shorts lined in red, I had the top, a short skirt, a be-glittered long skirt, and a scarf. The short skirt got tossed because it was uncharacteristically poorly made. The long skirt and scarf will live to be styled another day. Because of the monotone of the top and shorts, I cut a Barbie red, white and blue soccer jersey up the front, hemmed it, and used it as a jacket. It opens at the back with a Velcro closure. Once the red, white and blue came into the picture, I reworked a tote, made a cellphone with an American flag cover held on the wrist with a red, white and blue beaded stretch bracelet. A trophy also seemed appropriate. Knee high red boots and Americana earrings complete the ensemble. I gave this combo the name “Soccer Punch.”

The 90’s Barbie with her big blue eyes and really great hair is included. She has a Twist ‘n Turn waist, bendable knees and arched feet. Her arms do not flex but they are posed bent at the elbows. Even after 36 years, this doll can hold her own, or in this case, a trophy and a cellphone.Still and all, she has clearly seen some play time, some of it apparently rough judging by the scar on her leg. That's all I can see. If only the doll could talk.

Everything comes from a non-smoking, Barbie-loving home where déjà vu is a real thing.

Please note that I do not ship outside of the continental U.S. There are currently a number of independent shipping firms that serve the international community. I do combine shipping when feasible. Place items in your cart and request an invoice or message me and I will create a custom bundle with the desired items and combined postage.