Barbie , originally based on a ' sexually - themed gag book for children , ' celebrates 50 years . 90 percent of American girls , ages 3 to 10 , own at least one , Mattel toy company dolls . Doll inspires with 108 careers and fosters 100 million collectors worldwide . One woman in London , England , had cosmetic surgery to look like Barbie .
Barbie , originally based on a 'sexually-themed gag toy for men , ' celebrates 50 years . 90 percent of American girls , ages 3 to 10 , own at least one , Mattel toy company says . Doll inspires with 108 careers and fosters 8 million collectors worldwide . One woman in London , England , had cosmetic surgery to look like Barbie .