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Reinvented Barbie Watches Sales Rise

MSNBC/AP, Monday, December 11, 2006 11:30 AM

Barbie is the top toy for girls this holiday season, according to a survey of parents by the National Retail Federation, and Mattel Inc. says sales are up for the first time in several years.

Part of Barbie's charm--and Mattel's success with her--has come from an ability to keep up with the times. "Barbie has consistently reinvented herself," says Chris Byrne, an independent toy consultant.

Recently, Mattel has tapped into younger girls' fascination with fairies and princesses, with lines known as "Fairytopia" and "12 Dancing Princesses," which include movies, a stage show and prominent play on Barbie's interactive Web site.

Another new Barbie--the Chat Diva--carries a toy cell phone and can lip sync and bop her head to music when an iPod is plugged in. And to keep older girls interested, Mattel has developed product lines with cosmetic, perfume and clothing makers.

Read the whole story at MSNBC/AP »

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