The Barbie Movie starring Greta Gerwig has taken the world by storm, bringing the iconic Barbie logo back into the spotlight. However, there are a couple of different logo designs associated with Barbie, each with its own unique history. Let’s delve into the past of this iconic brand, which began captivating hearts over six decades ago, and explore the evolution of the Barbie logo.
The Original Barbie Logo (1959 – 1975)
The Second Barbie Logo (1975 – 1991)
In 1975, the Barbie logo underwent a significant transformation, adapting to the 3D trend of the time with a prominent drop shadow. The letters became more uniform, though the initial ‘B’ retained its lower placement, maintaining the playful spirit of the original design. This logo might look familiar, and we’ll soon find out why.
The Barbie Logo in the 1990s (1991 – 1999)
The 1990s brought changes to the Barbie logo once again, shedding the drop shadow and opting for more angular, stroke-like terminations on the letters. This design attempted to find a balance between the classic cursive logo and its predecessor. The shade of pink also evolved, becoming more subdued, reflecting a more refined and sophisticated Barbie image.
The Barbie Logo in the 2000s
In 1999, Mattel reintroduced the cursive Barbie logo with a slanted orientation, similar to the original 1959 design. Subsequent updates in 2004 and 2005 made the script larger and freer, giving it a Disney-like feel. Interestingly, for a brief period, the logo even featured a flower as the dot on the ‘i,’ signifying Barbie’s experimental teenage years. Ultimately, in 2009, Barbie returned to her roots with the original logo from 1959, solidifying its timeless appeal.
The Barbie Movie Logo
Now, let’s explore the Barbie Movie logo, which differs from the main brand identity but bears a striking resemblance to the second Barbie logo used from 1975 to 1991. The Barbie Movie logo omits the slant but adds some extra shine and the word ‘Movie.’ Warner Bros, the studio behind the film, likely aimed for a more cinematic effect with the significant drop shadow. Additionally, it may have intended to evoke nostalgia among those who grew up with Barbie in the 1980s, including many who are now parents themselves.
As the Barbie Movie continues to capture audiences’ hearts, the evolution of the Barbie logo reminds us of the enduring appeal of this iconic brand. From its playful beginnings in the ’50s to its elegant and cinematic present, Barbie has remained a symbol of imagination, empowerment, and timeless beauty for generations.
