Barbie Comes of Age

We shuddered at the news: Barbie was turning 20 this season. What would happen to the "teen queen" doll now that she was too old to go to the prom? Would she leave Skipper and P.J. to move in with Ken? Or would she forsake them all for the satisfaction of a career?

A quick trip to Jordan Marsh assured us that Barbie hasn't lost her teenage love of fun. She is entering her third decade with characteristic grace and a keen sense of fashion.

Sunlovin' Malibu Barbie and Malibu Ken ("real peek-a-boo tan and real tan line"--$5) are prepared to hit the surf. Superstar Barbie ("arms that pose like the modesl do"--$9) and Superstar Ken are dressed for opening night in Vegas. They can travel there in the Star Traveler ("ultra-deluxe scenic cruiser--$32) or on their star cycles ("the racey little scooter with super star appeal"--$8).

But even Barbie can't keep up that whirlwind pace indefinitely. This season she has a place of her own, the "dream house" ($115) where she can ponder the more serious questions she faces as an adult. Barbie can cook dinner in her microwave oven, relax in her beauty bath, or read on her single bed.

The house has no study or office, but at least it has adequate closet space. There is a fur and jewels safe, and plenty of drawers for her status jeans (which come with this warning: "for tight-fitting fashions, especially pants, ask an adult for some baby powder and rub it on doll's legs before slipping on clothes.") There are even hangers for superstar Barbie's feather boa and disco dresses.

But the most popular doll this season is not Superstar or Malibu Barbie. It is not Hawaiian Barbie ($7) or even Beautiful Bride Barbie ($10). Jordan's can barely keep the new Kissing Barbie ("Make her lips pucker! Hear the sound! See the lipstick mark!--$12) in stock.

Barbie is well-prepared for her twenties, but we can't help wondering about Ken. There's no kissing Ken or Beautiful Bridegroom doll. How long is Ken willing to wait? Barbie is already twenty and she's only just learned how to kiss.

Note: Barbie freaks will want to check the ultimate authority, The Collector's Encyclopedia of Barbie Dolls and Collectables, (Collier Books/Crown Publishers).