The world's most famous doll is celebrating her 50th birthday this year.

A year of celebrations has kicked off at the International Toy Fair in Nuremberg, Germany, although Barbie's official birthday is not until March 9.

Barbie was created on March 9th 1959 by Ruth Handler, who named her after her daughter Barbara.

Barbie has pursued more than 100 careers since she hit the shelves in 1959, but she still has her iconic blonde hair and tiny waist, and boyfriend Ken has remained the only man in her life.