David Bowie ‘Life on Mars’ Barbie doll celebrates 50 years of Hunky Dory

Mattel has created a David Bowie-inspired Barbie doll to celebrate the 50th anniversary of his classic album, Hunky Dory, and unsurprisingly, it’s already sold out.

The doll is inspired by Bowie’s look in the iconic Life on Mars? music video, with the Barbie doll sporting a bright red mullet and an authentic replica of his powder-blue suit.

A foil-printed pin-stripe shirt, statement tie, platform shoes, and bold blue eyeshadow complete the outfit.

Designer Linda Kyaw-Merschon, who created the doll, said in a statement: "It’s a tribute to Bowie – his outfit, his makeup, his features – to emulate his essence and make sure it looked like Barbie, but as Bowie.

"We tried to emulate his essence as much as we can. He was quite slender and pale, so we made sure to capture that as best could. Balance is key. Tricky, but I think you’ll see what I mean when you see the doll in real life."

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She added: "The secret is to capture the essence of it, since doing an exact 1:1 scale version is almost impossible. Definitely lots of trial and error involved, but being tenacious is a trait that has served us well."

The doll’s box is just as fabulous—Senior Packaging Designer Laydiana Chiv said"The BOWIE logo reflects the silver that’s found on his tie, and the soft blue wrapping of the packaging is taken from his iconic blue suit and eye shadow makeup.

"We also wanted to insert an Easter egg for Bowie fans by using the checkered distorted pattern from the sweater that Bowie wears on the Hunky Dory album cover. And plus, make the doll’s hair pop!"

The doll was released on June 29 and sold for $50 (£42) each. They were limited to two per customer and soon sold out.

Hunky Dory was David Bowie’s fourth studio album and was released in December 1971.

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