Barbie Expo in Montreal, the only one of its kind in the world

Barbie is certainly the best-known doll in the world of toys. Barbie now has her own permanent exhibition at Cours Mont-Royal in Montreal. Over 1,000 figurines are on display, much to the delight of fans of the iconic doll.

Barbie is a doll created by toy manufacturer Mattel in 1959. She takes on all the characteristics of the German model doll Bild Lilli, and is the second doll in the world to have an adult body. The iconic doll was the brainchild of Ruth Handler. She named her Barbie after her daughter, Barbara.

Barbie dolls are emblematic in the world of toys. Like the dolls and sexed-up figurines of the time, the Barbie doll, with its opulent breasts and slim waist, was all the rage. Young girls played for hours imagining their future lives, identifying themselves with the doll. Against the backdrop of the Cold War in the United States, Barbie embodied "the American way of life".

Over the years, the Barbie concept became increasingly universal, with new ethnicities for the doll and new careers. In 1963, Barbie became a businesswoman. In 1965, Barbie the astronaut was all the rage among little girls. In 1992, Barbie even ran for president of the United States. Today, Barbie dolls come in almost every ethnic group in the world, with a wide range of professions and body shapes.

Initially, Barbie's measurements were exaggerated, but over the years they were reduced to something more realistic. Shortly after the creation of the figurine, the many professional variations made Barbie a representation of female emancipation in the world of work.

Barbies represent almost every ethnic group. In 2016, toy manufacturer Mattel decided to represent women in all their diversity. After years of criticism for her unreal proportions, Barbie is finally getting closer to reality. Mattel and its Barbies celebrate diversity. There's even a Barbie in a wheelchair.

Some of the dolls at the Barbie expo are unique, featuring stars such as Marilyn Monroe, Audrey Hepburn, Elizabeth Taylor and even Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez. There are also collectors' Barbies in haute couture, dressed by Christian Dior, Versace, Givenchy, Donna Karan and Giorgio Armani.

In the 465 square metre exhibition, you'll find doll versions of all the major fashion trends. Finally, there are Barbies inspired by films such as Twilight, The Wizard of Oz and Titanic. Over the years, the Barbie has also represented fashion and the image of women in a constantly changing society.

This large shopping centre is at the cutting edge of fashion. It's packed with unique boutiques and trendy restaurants. It's a prestigious venue that hosts the Barbie expo.