Byron Lars Spring 1994
Helena Barquilla
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Byron Lars Spring 1994
Helena Barquilla
The Chapeaux Collection by Byron Lars was a Gold Label Barbie collectors edition series from the mid 2000s. The design of the dolls was great, but frankly, I'm a sucker for interesting package and display design and that's why this collection really caught my eye.
Pictured above is Pepper, the third doll in the collection. In addition to her black coat, she has a fabulous black boater hat to complete the ensemble. But what really delights me is that they are in HAT BOXES.
It's difficult of course to pick a favourite of the series, because they're all very visually striking.
Coco, for example, comes with a hat pin as long as her arm and there's not much more of a statement than that.
But I think Sugar is my favourite, and I can't quite put my finger on why.
She's just really delightful.
Incidentally: as of now, Wikipedia puts Byron Lars' total Barbies designed at 19, but he is not a Mattel designer. As of 2024, his fashion label is In Earnest By Byron Lars, formerly Byron Lars Beauty Mark.
Byron Lars is a celebrated African-American fashion designer, renowned for his exquisite and intricately detailed designs. With a career spanning over three decades, Lars has established himself as a master of his craft, with a keen eye for beauty and a passion for creating garments that are both functional and visually stunning. His designs often blend traditional techniques with modern sensibilities, resulting in pieces that are at once timeless and contemporary.
Lars collaborated with Mattel to create a stunning collection of Barbie dolls showcasing his exquisite designs. The Byron Lars Barbie dolls feature intricate details and elegant attire, reflecting the designer's signature style. This unique collaboration brought high-fashion couture to the iconic Barbie doll, offering a fresh and exciting perspective on fashion and beauty.
Lars' eponymous fashion label has garnered widespread acclaim, with his designs being featured in top fashion publications and worn by style icons around the world. He has also been recognized with numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious CFDA/Vogue Fashion Fund Award. Through his work, Lars continues to push the boundaries of fashion, inspiring a new generation of designers and fashion enthusiasts with his unique vision and unwavering dedication to his craft.
Video credit to Chris Vidal Tenomaa on YouTube
Barbie Collectables Store Magazine 2001
Byron Lars Ready-To-Wear Spring/Summer 1994
Model: Eva Herzigova
Who's your favorite Byron Lars Barbie? I can't name my favorite, but I own Sugar and Mbili.
Barbie Sugar by Byron Lars.