Meet The Woman Behind Black Barbie's Groundbreaking, 'dynamite' Style

In Greta Gerwig's much-anticipated "Barbie" movie, which opens in theaters Friday, "Insecure" actress Issa Rae brings some black power to the iconic doll's pink world as President Barbie.

But it was another African-American woman, Louvenia "Kitty" Black Perkins, who designed the first black Barbie — released in 1980 in a box that touted "She's black! She's beautiful! She's dynamite!"

Rather than the long, straight blond tresses and pastel-colored fashions of the traditional white Barbie, the brown-skinned beauty rocked short, curly black hair and a glittering red dress complete with matching dangling earrings.

"Everything Barbie [typically] was, I wanted to do the opposite," Black Perkins, now 75 and living in Los Angeles, told The Post. "I knew exactly how black women wear their hair, how their clothes were different from … all of Barbie's ballgowns.

"Basically," she continued, "I wanted my black Barbie doll to look more like me." 

The first black Barbie came in a box in a box that touted "She's black! She's beautiful! She's dynamite!" Mattel

Although Mattel had introduced the Christie doll as Barbie's friend in 1968 — and Cara would follow her in the '70s — this was the first time an African-American bore the name of the leading lady herself.

Not relegated to being an "accessory to Barbie," this was a main character creation that Black Perkins made on her way to becoming chief designer of the fashion doll line in the mid-'80s.

Coming 21 years after Barbie made her debut in 1959, it was a barrier-breaking move for Mattel as doll demand was changing.

Although she retired from Mattel in 2003, Louvenia "Kitty" Black Perkins is still busy creating fashions in her Los Angeles studio.John Chapple for N.Y.Post

"The collectors are the ones that really made a difference because every convention that they had, they were looking for black dolls," said Black Perkins. "So with that input, Mattel was more in tune with me doing a black Barbie doll." 

Growing up in segregated Spartanburg, South Carolina, in the '50s, Black Perkins had little experience toying with three-dimensional dolls of any kind.

"I did play with dolls, but it was mainly paper dolls because we couldn't afford a lot of dolls and toys," she said.

Black Perkins rose from assistant designer for Barbie in 1976 to chief designer in the mid-'80s.

As the middle sibling of seven, the young seamstress got her fashion sense from her father, Luther Black. "He was just so sharp," said Black Perkins. "If he would have on a light blue suit, he would have light blue shoes, a light blue hat."

After studying fashion design at Los Angeles Trade-Technical College, Black Perkins worked in the industry for about six years before she got an interview for an assistant designer position at Mattel in 1976.

"Then, I went out and purchased my first Barbie doll," she said. "And instead of making one outfit, I made six. The vice president of the company hired me on the spot. And on top of that, the six outfits I brought in — they put them in the line that year."

Black Perkins designed a one-of-a-kind collector's Barbie for Diana Ross, who served as inspiration for the first black Barbie in 1980.

Three years later, in 1979, Black Perkins began work on the toy company's first black Barbie. "I had a person that was in the hair department, a sculptor, a face painter, and most of their direction would come from me because I was black," she said. 

Diana Ross — one of the first big pop superstars at the time — was a major source of inspiration. 

"I loved the way that Diana would look when she was onstage, and her designer was Bob Mackie," said Black Perkins. "And so I wanted that feel to it."

"Insecure" actress Issa Rae (center) brings some black power to the pink world in the new "Barbie" movie, out Friday.Courtesy of Warner Bros. Pictures

But the groundbreaking Barbie was not embraced by everyone in the black community. "We did a lot of market research, and the first thing the moms wanted to know was, 'Why does she have to have short hair?'" recalled Black Perkins. "And with the skin color, I kind of went in between real dark and real light, but I still got criticism about that as well."

However, the doll was a big hit with little black girls. "Their reaction was 'Oh, she looks like me!' Which was the intent."

Black Perkins would go on to design the Afrocentric Shani line of dolls that were later introduced. Meanwhile, black Barbie would be updated with collector's editions for special anniversaries, most recently for her 40th in 2020.

Today, Black Perkins designs embellished jeans and does custom alterations.John Chapple for N.Y.Post

While Black Perkins retired from Mattel in 2003, the divorced mother of two hasn't hung up her sewing machine. She launched a line of embellished jeans worn by the likes of Gladys Knight and now also does custom alterations.

And she looks back on her years at Mattel with pride in helping black women be seen — both in corporate conference rooms and on toy store shelves.

"When I started at the company, there were very few black people," said Black Perkins. "So, it had its challenges. But it was so much fun. I mean, it wasn't like working — it was like playing."

13 Best Black Work Pants For Women, According To Editors And *Glowing* Reviews

1

Best Cropped Wide-Leg Work Pants

Maeve Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Ponte Pants

1

Best Cropped Wide-Leg Work Pants

Maeve Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Ponte Pants

Now 42% Off

Credit: Anthropologie

The perfect wide-leg pants don't exi—okay, step aside, because these rave-reviewed wide-leg pants have officially entered the room. These fan-favorite flared trousers give that easy-going cool girl aesthetic that we've all been looking for. If the super flattering high-rise, stretchy fabric combo has you grabbing for these every single day, don't worry—this is a judgement free zone.

Material: 69% viscose, 27% nylon, 4% elastane

Size Range: 23-34

Fit: Petite, Standard, Tall, and Plus

THE REVIEW: "As a short girl, it's tough to find cropped, wide-leg pants that *actually* fall at the ankle," says Cosmo editor Corinne Sullivan. "But these gorgeous ponte pants are available in a wide range of sizes (including petite, tall, and plus-size) so you can find the perfect fit. I love the high rise, the chic wide leg, and the thick yet suuuuper breathable viscose and nylon fabric. For me, these are a closet staple."

2

Best Linen Blend Work Pants

Madewell Tailored Tapered Pant in Linen-Blend

2

Best Linen Blend Work Pants

Madewell Tailored Tapered Pant in Linen-Blend

Now 12% Off

Credit: Madewell

I call these the Hannah Montana pants because you really do get the best of both worlds. Designed with a breezy, eco-friendly linen blend, these best-selling track pants are where sporty meets polished, thanks to the subtle pleats and partially elasticized waist that won't dig into your organs while sitting all day.

Material: 53% linen, 47% viscose

Size Range: 00-16

Fit: Plus, Standard, Petite, and Tall

THE REVIEW: According to associate editor Chaise Sanders, "I just got these pants and can't believe I've gone this long without having them in my closet. I have to stop myself from wearing them everyday because they're lightweight, breezy and the perfect crop."

3

Best Tailored Work Pants

Abercrombie Sloane Tailored Pant

3

Best Tailored Work Pants

Abercrombie Sloane Tailored Pant

Now 25% Off

Credit: Abercrombie & Fitch

Twelve-year-old, cami-wearing me would've never guessed that I'd be right back at Abercrombie as a 20-something looking for her next favorite pair of work pants...Yet here we are. Abercrombie's high-waisted tailored pants are available in three different lengths (short, regular, and long) as well as in the brand's Curve Love line fit, which makes it 1000 times easier to find your best fit.

Material: 80% polyester, 16% viscose, 4% elastane

Size Range: 23-37

Fit: Short, Regular, Long

THE REVIEWS: "I swear by these Abercrombie pants in their Curve Love fit," says senior editor Lauren Alexis Fisher. "It's so hard to find a pair of work pants that a) fit my curves and b) I don't have to get hemmed (I'm 5'2!), and this style in the Short length fits like a dream. They're also easy to dress up or dress down, which is always a bonus."

And according to associate shopping editor Hanna Flanagan, "These are my favorite black pants for work and the weekend!"

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4

Best Work Pants That Feel Like Leggings

Universal Standard Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants

4

Best Work Pants That Feel Like Leggings

Universal Standard Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants Credit: Universal Standard

If you're like me and don't want to give up leggings just to sit at a desk where no one even sees your full 'fit, these work pants are for you. Made from pilling resistant, mid-weight ponte, they are the ultimate dress up/dress down style designed with a high waist, discreet pockets, and matte black zippers at the ankle.

Material: 60% rayon, 35% nylon, 5% elastane

Size Range: 00-40

Style: With Zipper, Without Zipper, Pintuck

THE REVIEW: As senior astrology editor Erika W. Smith says, "These have been my go-to black pants for years now. They are super comfy, but still look more dressed up than leggings."

5

Best Cropped Work Pants

Spanx AirEssentials Cropped Wide Leg Pant

5

Best Cropped Work Pants

Spanx AirEssentials Cropped Wide Leg Pant Credit: Spanx

Just in case you missed the memo: Spanx aren't just for shapewear anymore! For luxe comfort that feels silky smooth against your skin, these wide-leg pants are your friends. The smoothing fabric looks polished and elevated, but features four-way stretch that's low-key super comfortable. The cropped length is also great for year-round wear and can be styled with sneakers, heels, sandals, and boots.

Material: 47% modal, 46% polyester, 7% elastane

Size Range: XS-3X

Fit: Regular, Tall, Petite

THE REVIEW: "These are the most comfortable pants you will ever own," writes one reviewer. "You can throw them on in the morning to lounge in, or you can dress them up and they look fabulous! The fit is right on, they're super soft and they hold their shape. You won't be disappointed!"

6

Best Soft Wide-Leg Work Pants

Aam Wide Leg Pant

6

Best Soft Wide-Leg Work Pants

Aam Wide Leg Pant Credit: Aam

Say hello to the perfect pair of high-waisted, wide-leg pants. Made with a soft and smooth lyocell fabric and complete with hidden inseam pockets that won't do that annoying puff out thing, these are perfect for tucking all your tops into.

Material: 100% lyocell

Size Range: XS-XL

THE REVIEW: "The fabric of this pant is impossibly soft, I don't even know what to compare it to," one review reads. "And it stays that way even after washing! I love the 'boho' fit of these—they're flowy without make me feel boxy on the bottom."

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7

Best Cargo Work Pants

Mango Pocket Cargo Pants

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Best Cargo Work Pants

Mango Pocket Cargo Pants

Now 33% Off

Credit: Mango

Cargo pants are having their moment rn, so it only makes sense to have them make a special appearance in the office. Not only are these pants functional, thanks to all those pockets, but they give off that chill, cool-girl aesthetic.

Material: 92% polyamide, 8% elastane

Size Range: 2-12

THE REVIEW: "I love the fit, feel and functionality of these pants!" says editor Corinne Sullivan. "They are super light, incredibly comfy, and have large pockets, which is always a plus."

8

Best Relaxed Work Pants

Everlane Easy Pant

8

Best Relaxed Work Pants

Everlane Easy Pant Credit: Everlane

It's kinda in the name—these Everlane pants are easy like Sunday morning (minus the Sunday scaries). Thanks to its lightweight cotton fabric, breathable silhouette, and pull-on waistband, getting dressed for the office has never been easier.

Material: 98% cotton, 2% elastane

Size Range: XXS-XL

THE REVIEW: "If you want to accentuate your waist, but still have a lightweight, quality cotton pant, these are for you," one tester writes. "I love the small waist, wide leg look! They are so versatile. I have them in 4 colors! Highly recommend."

9

Best Wide-Leg Pants For Plus Sizes

Princess Polly Archer Pants Black Curve

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Best Wide-Leg Pants For Plus Sizes

Princess Polly Archer Pants Black Curve Credit: Princess Polly

As a curvy girl, I understand the headache that is finding high-waisted pants that fit the thighs and the waist. Luckily, Princess Polly's line designed just for gals like me is here to help with redesigns of their best-selling fan-favorites, like this pair of classic black work pants.

Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex

Size Range: 14-20

THE REVIEW: "These are my go-to black pants," one review reads. "I have two pairs now because I love these so much. The fit is great, the pants are cute and the quality is great. Would recommend to other people, as they are so comfy yet so cute."

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10

Best Slim-Fit Work Pants

Spanx The Perfect Pant, Slim Straight

10

Best Slim-Fit Work Pants

Spanx The Perfect Pant, Slim Straight Credit: Spanx

If you haven't heard of Spanx's best-selling 'The Perfect Pants,' allow me to introduce you. Available in a tonnn of different fits (from wide-leg and flares to this super slim, straight-leg style), the brand's signature pants are made of a super-smoothing yet soft fabric that feels comfortable but looks elevated. If you're looking for slim-fitting black work pants, this ankle-length pair is ideal for showing off your best work heels (or flats!)

Material: 68% rayon, 28% nylon, 4% elastane

Size Range: XS - 3X

Fit: Regular, Petite, and Tall

THE REVIEW: "I have both the wide-leg and slim-fit styles of The Perfect Pants by Spanx, and I love how smoothing (yet still comfy) the fabric is," senior editor Lauren Alexis Fisher says. "These slim-fit pants are great for showing off a good pair of heels and looking super pulled together without sacrificing comfort. The only downside, for me, is the fact that they don't have a button or zipper, so the fit can look a bit legging-like across the hips when styled with certain tops."

11

Best Budget Work Pants

Pull & Bear Pants With Seam Details

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Best Budget Work Pants

Pull & Bear Pants With Seam Details Credit: Pull & Bear

Simple, versatile, and classic—all the features you could wish for in a perfect pair of work pants. There are two lengths available: standard and petite, and the blend makes them both soft and comfortable.

Material: 62% polyester, 33% viscose, 5% elastane

Size Range: XXS-XXL

Fit: Standard and Petite

THE REVIEW: According to associate editor Venezia Moorer, "These are super-flattering, so I got them in every color."

12

Best Black Skinny Jeans for Work

Old Navy Mid-Rise Black Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans

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Best Black Skinny Jeans for Work

Old Navy Mid-Rise Black Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans

Now 50% Off

Credit: Old Navy

Sorry, Gen-Z...Skinny jeans aren't going anywhere soon. These are some of Old Navy's best-selling items for a reason and they go with just about anything your heart desires.

Material: 73% cotton, 25% polyester, 2% spandex

Size Range: 00-30

Fit: Regular, Tall, Petite

THE REVIEW: "A little higher waisted than I expected but still SUPER comfy," one tester writes. "These have been my favorite jeans for over 10 years. I love them!"

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13

Best Vegan Leather Work Pants

Wilfred The Melina Super High-Rise Pant

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Best Vegan Leather Work Pants

Wilfred The Melina Super High-Rise Pant

Now 34% Off

Credit: Artizia

Aritzia girlies get it—the fan-favorite Melina pants have a universally flattering fit and are made of vegan leather that looks and feels just like the real thing.

Material: 100% polyurethane

Size Range: 00-16

THE REVIEW: As one buyer writes, "Wasn't sure how they'd fit since I am curvy with a smaller waist but super happy and can't believe how nice they contour!"

Why trust 'Cosmo'

Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmo, who covers everything from beauty and style (anyone need a new straw hat for your European summer?) to entertainment and lifestyle (oh, and here's some vacay Instagram captions for said Euro trip). With 3 years of digital editorial experience, she's an expert at researching and sourcing from our amazing team who literally have alll the black pants recs a gal could ask for. Basically, she's curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it's her job (because it is, heh).

Plus, here at Cosmo, we have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes pieces for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!

Associate Editor

Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers anything from lifestyle and beauty to entertainment and style. Wanna upgrade your skincare game? She's got you covered with the best facial cleansing brushes. Or maybe you're in need of a new true crime show to binge? Got that covered too! Prior to joining the Cosmo team, Chaise was an editor at Country Living (also part of the Hearst fam) where she interviewed celebs like Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes and even Martha Stewart. Now, as one of the Big Apple's newest residents, there's a good chance that you can catch her checking out an Insta-worthy cafe or spending way to much $$$ in vintage stores.

WWII Revolutionized Women's Fashion — 20 Photos Proving 1940s Style Is Truly Timeless

The 1940s was a turbulent decade, forever defined by World War II. The war touched all areas of society, including the garment industry and ultimately changed the face of fashion forever. Rations impacted the fabrics that were used, as well as the cuts of clothes — hemlines got shorter, as fabric had to be conserved, and stockings became less common, as nylon was in short supply.

Some women even went so far as to do draw on "liquid stockings" using makeup on bare legs to create the illusion that they were wearing hosiery (for more tricks they used, see 5 genius fashion secrets WWII women learned.) Wool and silk were also needed for uniforms and parachutes, so lighter fabrics like rayon and viscose became more popular for everyday wear.

While there was certainly austerity due to wartime restrictions, the 1940s, by contrast, was also a time of glamour. Hollywood stars like Lauren Bacall and Rita Hayworth inspired women around the country with their elegant hair and makeup and perfectly tailored dresses, and designers like Christian Dior, Claire McCardell and Norman Norrell pioneered women's style with their beautifully flattering and feminine frocks that were often featured in fashion magazines of the day.

Onscreen, Hollywood costume designers like the wildly prolific Edith Head presented fashions that many women coveted, from smart skirt suits to luxurious gowns.

While the 1940s may feel far in the past, some looks from the decade are surprisingly modern. Platform shoes were ubiquitous, and many women started wearing pants for the first time. It's no surprise, then, that '40s fashion has made multiple comebacks over the years.

Here we explore some of the most iconic styles of the era.

The features that made 1940s dresses distinctive Gathered waist

Lauren Bacall looks radiant in red in 1944John Engstead/Warner Bros/Kobal/Shutterstock

While the dresses of the 1950s had wide circle skirts and the dresses of the 1960s were shorter than ever before, 1940s dresses were often knee-length and lacked excess frills. Lauren Bacall's dress above may be long-sleeved, but the figure-flattering gathering and red shade make it sexy — she looks every inch the femme fatale.

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Structured shoulder pads

Gene Tierney sports a belted blue dress in 194720th Century Fox/Kobal/Shutterstock

1940s dresses were smartly tailored. Gene Tierney's lovely yet casual blue frock features structured shoulders (a style that would come back in a big way in the '80s) and a belted waist. The slightly square neckline adds to the polished look. Historians note that many casual dresses of the time borrowed elements from wartime uniforms: "The look was simple but stylish, with good proportion and line. It incorporated padded shoulders, a nipped-in waist and hems to just below the knee," wrote James Laver in Costume and Fashion: A Concise History. These more low-key dresses could be worn by anyone, from screen sirens to everyday women.

Bright prints and florals

Actress Jinx Falkenburg wears a floral dress and patriotic accessories in 1945Columbia/Kobal/Shutterstock

Women also had fun with print dresses in the '40s. Classic patterns like plaid and florals were popular, but there were also novelty prints like hearts and painterly motifs. Actress and model Jinx Falkenburg posed in a bold floral print dress that paired well with an American flag and a purse covered in patriotic pins. The bright pattern speaks to the strong can-do spirit of the time. There's nothing like a playful print to put some pep in your step.

Glamorous gowns

Rita Hayworth vamps in a shiny, cream-colored gown in 1947Coburn/Kobal/Shutterstock

The plunging neckline and nipped-in waist on Rita Hayworth's lovely evening dress embody the charm of late-'40s style. While these ultra-feminine hourglass silhouettes would become a hallmark of '50s fashion, it was in the late '40s, shortly after the end of WWII, that Dior's "New Look" was introduced. The New Look celebrated a type of glamour that had previously been on hold, and Hayworth's gown, with its luscious fabric and flattering form, spoke to this new prosperity.

The features that characterized 1940s pants

The iconic 1942 Rosie the Riveter poster had a big impact on fashionGlasshouse Images/Shutterstock

One of the biggest fashion transformations of the '40s was the growing popularity of pants for women. When men were at war and women increasingly entered the workforce, women's pants became a practical fashion choice. The ubiquitous wartime image of Rosie the Riveter, a strong female worker in a no-nonsense jumpsuit with rolled-up sleeves, inspired women to serve their country and put on a uniform, and showed that pants were no longer just for the boys.

Tailored trousers

Katharine Hepburn rocks her baggy trousers behind the scenes of the 1948 movie State of the UnionMgm/Kobal/Shutterstock

But pants weren't just about utilitarianism. They were also beloved by actress Katharine Hepburn, who was known for her trailblazing trousers. With her slouchy-yet-smart pants and sharp wit, Hepburn showed that a Hollywood star didn't need to be constantly dolled up, and she became one of the first celebrities to embrace a truly modern style.

High-waisted slacks

A model wears stylish high-waisted pants in 1945Everett/Shutterstock

Distinctive 1940s shoes Practical lace-up oxfords

Women wear oxford shoes while hard at work during WWIIEverett/Shutterstock

Sensible lace-up oxford shoes were worn by working women during the war. Since they spent a lot of time on their feet, they needed shoes that were utilitarian, and androgynous oxfords were just the thing to get the job done. Men also wore oxfords, and variations like saddle shoes and heeled or platform oxfords were popular for women outside of the workplace.

Cork-heeled wedges

Katharine Hepburn wears a pair of simple espadrille sandals in 1947Mgm/Kobal/Shutterstock

Rationing had an impact on footwear as well as clothing. Leather and rubber were no longer widely available, and factories prioritized creating shoes for military uniforms. Lighter, easier-to-produce shoes like cork-heeled sandals and espadrilles became popular, and people were expected to keep shoe purchases to a minimum.

Round-toe pumps

Barbara Stanwyck wears femme fatale pumps in the 1944 film noir Double IndemnityPhoto by Paramount/Kobal/Shutterstock

Pumps are the kind of footwear that's never gone out of style. In the '40s, pumps weren't worn by women in the workforce, but th