Mattel has partnered with Lucasfilm to create a line of limited-edition Barbie dolls inspired by Star Wars characters from the first film in the franchise, Star Wars: A New Hope.
Barbie's new looks are patterned after the characters Darth Vader, R2-D2 and Princess Leia. Each unique doll comes with a stand and certificate of authenticity. Specially made for collectors, the line of Barbies is expected to be released this November. Fans can pre-order the collectibles on Mattel's website for $100 each.
"The unique aspects of this come from the collaboration of two unique icons that truly stand-alone," says Robert Best, senior director, Barbie Design, Mattel, via Barbie blog. "Barbie and Star Wars are cultural phenomena like no others, and so it's exciting to bring these two worlds together. I also think it might be an unexpected collaboration, and I love that."
Speaking of the Vader-styled look, Best added that it was vital for the Barbies not to look like they were wearing a costume based on the film. Instead, the designer made slight alterations to the doll to create a silhouette that captured the essence of the famous sci-fi characters.
"While these details are interesting and relevant to the characters in the narrative related to the films, when you're creating a look 'inspired by,' the purpose is to capture the essence of the character and include notable details" adds Best. "Then, it becomes more about what the costume and its narrative purpose represents emotionally and finding a way to convey that through fashion."
The collaboration marks another unique partnership for the Barbie brand. Mattel's iconic doll was also recently reimagined as Ziggy Stardust for a David Bowie-inspired creation.
