1963 Barbie Fashion Queen (Turban and 3 Wigs, Complete)

Barbie's Most Glamorous Transformation

The 1963 Barbie Fashion Queen introduced a concept that was revolutionary for doll design: a Barbie whose hairstyle could be completely changed with interchangeable wigs. Rather than the rooted hair of standard Barbies, the Fashion Queen featured a molded head with painted brown hair in a "band" sculpt, designed to be covered by a turban or one of three included wigs. A complete set with the turban and all three wigs intact is the holy grail for collectors of this particular model.

Mattel released the Fashion Queen (stock #870) as part of Barbie's continued evolution from a fashion doll into a fashion system. The ability to change hair color and style with wigs meant a single doll could transform from a brunette to a blonde to a redhead, dramatically expanding play possibilities.

What Makes It Complete

A complete 1963 Fashion Queen Barbie should include:

Essential Components

• Fashion Queen Barbie doll with molded/painted brown hair band

• Gold and white striped swimsuit (standard issue)

• Gold turban with decorative detail

• Blonde bubble-cut wig

• Brunette pageboy wig

• Titan (red) side-part wig

• White open-toe shoes

• Wig stand (small plastic form for storing extra wigs)

• Original box (significantly adds value)

Identification Points

• The doll's head has a molded brown band of hair around the crown, visible when wigs are removed

• Body uses the standard 1963 Barbie body mold with straight legs

• Blue eyeliner and red lips are standard facial paint

• The doll has small holes or texture on the head to help wigs grip

History and Context

The Fashion Queen arrived during a period of intense creativity at Mattel. Ruth Handler's original Barbie concept (1959) had proven enormously successful, and the company was expanding the line in multiple directions. The Fashion Queen sat alongside the standard ponytail Barbie, the Bubble Cut, and the soon-to-arrive American Girl in Barbie's growing family.

The wig concept was not entirely new in dolls, but Mattel's execution was particularly polished. The wigs were well-made, styled in current fashions, and designed to stay securely on the doll's head during play. The inclusion of three different wigs in three different colors was generous for the price point.

Production ran from 1963 to 1965, after which the Fashion Queen was discontinued. The relatively short production run contributes to its collectibility today.

Condition and Value Guide

Current Market Values (Complete with Turban and All 3 Wigs)

• Near Mint (doll has excellent facial paint, all wigs present and in good condition, swimsuit intact, original box): $400 to $600

• Excellent (doll shows minimal play wear, all wigs present, swimsuit shows light wear): $250 to $400

• Very Good (doll has minor facial paint wear, all three wigs present but may show styling wear): $150 to $250

• Good (doll shows play wear, wigs present but may have frizz or tangles): $100 to $175

Incomplete Sets

• Doll with 2 of 3 wigs: Reduce value by 25-30%

• Doll with 1 wig: Reduce value by 40-50%

• Doll only (no wigs or turban): $40 to $80

Individual Wig Values

• Individual Fashion Queen wigs in good condition: $15 to $40 each

• Turban alone: $20 to $50

Condition Assessment Details

Doll Body

• Check for green ear syndrome (oxidation from earrings turning vinyl green). This is common and reduces value.

• Examine limbs for tightness. Loose limbs from play wear are common.

• Body discoloration or staining from storage affects value.

Facial Paint

• Lip paint should be intact and vivid. Faded or worn lip paint is the most common flaw.

• Eye paint (blue liner) should be clean and even.

• The molded hair band paint should be consistent brown without chips.

Wigs

• Wigs should be free of matting, excessive frizz, or missing fiber.

• Original styling is preferred but not always preserved.

• Color should be even without significant fading.

• The wig cap should be intact without tears.

Swimsuit

• Gold and white striped fabric should be intact without tears.

• Elastic should still have some stretch.

• No significant staining or discoloration.

The Fashion Queen's Legacy

The interchangeable wig concept reappeared throughout Barbie's history in various forms. The 1971 Live Action Barbie and various later dolls incorporated changeable hair features. But the original 1963 Fashion Queen remains the most collectible and historically significant version of this concept.

The doll also represents an interesting design philosophy. In the early 1960s, Mattel was exploring ways to add value and play depth to the Barbie line beyond clothing changes. The Fashion Queen demonstrated that Barbie could transform her entire look, a theme that would become central to the brand's identity in the decades to come.

Collecting Tips

• Always verify completeness before purchasing. Missing wigs are extremely common.

• Examine the doll's head carefully. The molded hair band should be clearly visible and undamaged.

• If buying online, request photos of each wig individually and of the doll without wigs.

• Period-correct replacement wigs exist but are distinguishable from originals by fiber quality and cap construction.

• Store wigs on a small form or cushion to maintain shape.

Final Thoughts

The 1963 Barbie Fashion Queen with turban and three wigs represents one of the most innovative designs in vintage Barbie history. The concept of interchangeable glamour, allowing a single doll to transform her entire look, was ahead of its time and executed with the quality that defined early Mattel products. A complete, well-preserved example is a standout piece in any vintage Barbie collection.

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