Beyond the unique, fresh yet nostalgic face sculpting, the delicate fingers, lovely face painting and silkstone composition (all of which are gorgeous!), I'm referring to her size/measurements. Head to toe, Barbie's had a makeover that qualifies for an AMA award for most-enhanced figure "under the knife"!

Lingerie Barbie-L, #1 Repro-R

Many of the changes, however, would be impossible "for real." First, her arms and legs are longer, hands bigger and feet bigger. Overall, she's grown more than 1/2".

Full view on stands #1 Repro L & Lingerie Barbie R

Below left: Difference in leg lengths is obvious!

Below right: Arms are different lengths

While all these elements have gotten larger, one is actually smaller. If you guessed her chest measurement, you win the cupie doll. What does this mean when it comes to fashion? Can she wear vintage outfits? newer fashions? Yes to both questions, except her bosom looks "shrunken"! (Because it is!)

They went on the feet rather easily and was surpised that within 6 hours one shoe had split and then overnight the other split-all the way from the toe point to the top of the shoe (below).

What all this means is only the new fashions and accessories made especially for the Lingerie Barbie (gloves and shoes) really fit as they should. And if you put these new clothes on a vintage doll, good luck! Because the clothes are made for a smaller chest, the vintage doll will be "bustin' out all over"-translation: leave a snap undone. The shoes will also be too big on the vintage doll.

Sewing for Lingerie Barbie will require attention to a few details. Be sure to add length to sleeves and pants, but adjust the bodice for a smaller chest (smaller darts and deeper side seams, etc.).

This isn't the first time Barbie's figure has undergone change. Not only Barbie, but Ken, Midge and Skipper bear little or no resemblance to their earliest form. Next time we'll explore some (r)evolutionary changes the rest of the Mattel "family" have undergone.