Source: Michael Ochs Archives / Getty
Debbie Allen has officially joined the ranks of legends immortalized in Barbie’s Tribute Collection. From Allen to Aaliyah, check out 14 iconic Black Barbies you must add to your collection.
Barbie’s Tribute Collection is a series honoring visionaries who have shaped culture and inspired generations. According to Mattel, the Debbie Allen Barbie captures the award-winning choreographer, dancer, and producer’s iconic energy with a glittery performance outfit inspired by her Fame era. The fit is complete with fringe-trim pants, leg warmers, and gold statement accessories. Designed by Carlyle Nuera, the doll reflects Allen’s legacy as a creative force who continues to empower young artists through her work and the Debbie Allen Dance Academy.
RELATED: The Aaliyah Barbie Is Here! Mattel Releases New Limited Edition Doll
While Allen’s doll is the latest to debut, she joins an impressive lineup of Black women honored by Barbie’s Inspiring Women and Tribute collections. The Brandy Barbie was first released in 1999, remains one of the most beloved among fans, featuring the singer’s signature braids and a stylish 2000s-era wardrobe. Yara Shahidi’s Barbie, part of the Shero series, celebrates the Grown-ish star’s advocacy for education and representation in Hollywood.
Collectors can also find historical icons like Rosa Parks and Dr. Maya Angelou in the Inspiring Women series, each crafted to honor their groundbreaking contributions to civil rights and literature. And for music lovers, the Tina Turner Barbie, which is decked out in a replica of her “What’s Love Got to Do with It” look. The Barbie pays homage to the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll herself.
More recently, Aaliyah’s Barbie was released in January 2025, paying tribute to the “One in a Million” singer’s effortless cool and trailblazing influence on music, fashion, and culture. Styled in her signature black leather look with sleek sunglasses and bold attitude, the doll captures the late icon’s timeless blend of edge and elegance. It’s a must-have for collectors who honor artists who redefined what it means to be unapologetically original.
From pioneers like Allen and Angelou to pop culture trailblazers like Brandy and Shahidi, these dolls represent more than just collectibles. They’re symbols of Black excellence, creativity, and timeless influence that every Barbie lover should proudly display.
Check out a gallery of iconic Black Barbies below:
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The post 13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll appeared first on MadameNoire.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
1. Debbie Allen (2025)
Source:Getty
Honors the legendary choreographer, dancer, and producer with a sparkling Fame-inspired outfit.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
2. Tina Turner (2022)
Source:Getty
Inspired by her iconic “What’s Love Got to Do With It” look, celebrating the Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
3. Maya Angelou (2021)
Source:Getty
Honors the celebrated poet, author, and activist, complete with a copy of I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
4. Rosa Parks (2019)
Source:Getty
Commemorates the “Mother of the Civil Rights Movement” in her classic 1950s attire.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
5. Ida B. Wells
Source:Getty
Recognizes the pioneering journalist and anti-lynching activist with a Victorian-style dress.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
6. Madam C. J. Walker (2022)
Source:Getty
Celebrates America’s first self-made female millionaire and beauty industry pioneer.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
7. Brandy (1999)
Source:Getty
A fan-favorite capturing the singer and actress’ signature braids and late-’90s glam.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
8. Aaliyah (2025)
Source:Marc Baptiste
A tribute to the beloved “Princess of R&B,” featuring her signature tomboy-chic style — baggy pants, crop top, and sleek hair — reflecting her timeless impact on music and fashion.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
9. Yara Shahidi (2019)
Source:Getty
Modeled after the Grown-ish star, featuring a custom look and her inspiring motto: “Let’s change the world.”
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
10. Ava DuVernay (2015)
Source:Getty
Inspired by the acclaimed filmmaker, complete with her signature locs and director’s chair.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
11. Naomi Osaka (2021)
Source:Tag Heuer
Honors the tennis champion and activist with her athletic look and calm confidence.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
12. Zendaya (2015)
Source:Getty
Inspired by her 2015 Oscars look with locs, celebrating natural beauty and individuality.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
13. Laverne Cox (2022)
Source:Getty
Recognizes the Emmy-nominated actress and LGBTQ+ advocate, marking a milestone for representation.
13 Black Barbies You Should Add To Your Collection—Starting With Debbie Allen’s Tribute Doll was originally published on ionemadamenoire.staging.go.ione.nyc
