Barbie Collaborates with Local Designer

Barbie sports a new look inspired by South Africa and designed by Gert-Johan Coetzee. Meet the Barbie Loves Gert Collection.

Barbie Loves Gert Collection

Barbie announced a collaboration with celebrated fashion designer Gert-Johan Coetzee. Gert created a new ready to wear South African-inspired collection. This included a couture dress made specifically to fit the number one fashion doll in the world.

The Barbie Loves Gert collection comprises 31 looks and celebrates the uniqueness of South Africans. This collection marks the first time that international fashion icon, Barbie, worked with Gert-Johan Coetzee. Gert is one of South Africa’s most loved and admired fashion designers. His original designs are immediately distinguishable as creations by this established and celebrated designer. His work represents all genders, sizes, and cultures. The models who walk in his shows also reflect Coetzee’s commitment to diversity. 

Geometric patterns inspired by the Zulu & Xhosa culture

“I wanted Barbie to experience South Africa to its fullest by integrating an array of South African cultural elements into the collection. Striking pink from the Pedi culture complimented by geometric patterns inspired by the Zulu culture” explains Coetzee. “Using South African beadwork in black and white, I took inspiration from the Xhosa culture. I wanted this collection to encapsulate a true South African experience.”

The clothing collection includes both couture and ready-to-wear items. You will find 15 ready-to-wear items from the collection on Coetzee’s website for purchase. Couture items are made to order. 

“As the most diverse fashion doll in the market, with over 170 different diverse looks, shapes and sizes, Barbie continues to show the impact of representation and we are absolutely honoured and inspired to be working with South African designer Gert-Johan Coetzee whose work embodies these values”, says Scott Hobson, Country Manager Mattel South Africa (Pty) Ltd. 

The collaboration was led with Blue Horizon Licensing, Mattel’s official brand licensing partner in South Africa. They are, of course, a key partner in producing this collaboration.

One-of-a-kind

Coetzee describes his finale piece as a “one-of-a-kind gown – even in doll size – it’s absolute haute couture”. Over three thousand genuine rhinestone crystals and pearls were manually applied to the fabric to create the replica for Barbie. The dress features more than 40 meters of bright pink tulle ruches. The entire construction took over 50 meticulous hours to create.  

“Barbie has collaborated with designers many times but I really wanted the African interpretation to stand out. When people look at the collaboration from around the world they must really feel inspired by the diversity of Africa, the richness of our culture and the beauty of our men and women,” concludes Coetzee. 

Gert-Johan Coetzee and Europa Art Group joined forces to both design and create the shoes for the collection. There are 5 different items, and each item will be available in two colours. The shoes will be available at Europa Art stores as well as on https://www.europaart.co.za/. Visit http://gertjohancoetzee.com to find more information on the ready-to-wear items available to consumers as well as information on the shoes from Europa Art. 

To learn more about #BarbieLovesGert please visit www.blueh.co.za and join the social conversation with #BarbieSA and #GertJohanCoetzee.

Finally, shop the collection at www.shopgert.com