Why you’ll only find these one-of-a-kind, high-fashion Barbies in Montreal

Barbie fans, check out these fantastic takes on the 57-year-old doll (not that she looks her age).

There’s a circus-style Barbie with an outfit designed by superstar American designer Bob Mackie, and Barbie dressed in a gold gown studded with Swarovski crystals and designed by Faberge.

The Barbies -- some hip, some classic, some inspired by famous art works, some pop culture cuties -- are part of a 1,000-strong collection that recently opened as Barbie Expo, a new museum in the heart of Montreal.

Style website wwd.com says “one of the best-loved dolls of the 20th century celebrates haute couture history� in the collection that brings Barbie to the forefront of fashion.

The sleek display area holds the permanent collection of Barbies dressed by fashion houses, transformed into entertainment personalities (there’s an awesome Barbie-turned-Farrah-Fawcett in a red bathing suit) and portrayed in film roles.

The museum is owned not by Barbie creator Mattel but by the Soltron Group, which also owns the upscale shopping center Les Cours Mont Royal, where the museum is located.

The dolls were donated by collectors and designers from around the world, a museum statement says.

Admission is free, but travelers are invited to make a donation to the Make-A-Wish Quebec charity when they visit the museum.

Info: Barbie Expo

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