One of the most iconic images to emerge in the 20th century was Barbie. Even after 50 years, Barbie is still captivating young girls and women of all ages around the globe, and with the opening of House of Barbie Shanghai, Barbie is sure to continue her reign as a fashion and lifestyle icon.

Mattel, the parent company behind Barbie, opened House of Barbie in Shanghai on March 6, 2009. This monumental moment in Barbie history marks the first global flagship store, creating both a retail opportunity and a brand building position for the queen of dolls. Barbie Shanghai pumps new life into the global icon, establishing a connection between the brand's historical roots in fashion, and Barbie's inspirational capabilities to encourage girls to dream, discover, and explore a world without limits.

The megastore encompasses 35,000 square-feet on six floors. The main goal behind the development of this structure was to create a world where "Barbie is Hero," that was easily adaptable to the diverse personalities and interests of consumers. To meet the varying needs, the building houses a Design Center where girls can design their own Barbie, creating a custom doll and design portfolio; a Fashion Stage where fans can display their own outfits pulled straight from the closet of Barbie herself; and a Dolls of the World Library that represents the different cultures around the world. In the library girls can read books that illustrate each of these cultures through words and pictures, and tag along with Barbie on her worldly travels.

This flagship store is home to the world's largest and most comprehensive collection of dolls and accessories ranging from fashions and cosmetics to publishing merchandise. The focal point of the building is the three-story spiral staircase surrounded by 800 Barbie dolls, creating a world where everything truly revolves around Barbie. Incorporating Barbie's signature color pink into the mix is a pink elevator tube, which brings guests from the street to the main floor.

Designed by Slade Architecture of New York, Barbie Shanghai features a double-layered façade, which creates an interactive relationship between the two layers through reflection, shadow, and distortion. Within House of Barbie, according to a Mattel spokesperson, the doll's "values are still intact." This new commercial property is "expanding the Barbie empire to reach girls young and old, around the world, creating a common bond through an iconic figure that has inspired women for generations."

Shanghai is a beautiful city that is leading the way in modernizing China, with amazing family attractions noted in FTF's Shanghai Family Guide. In addition to the new Barbie House, everyone in the family will enjoy the Shanghai Museum in People's Square, home to ancient Chinese art featuring bronze and ceramic pieces, as well as furniture from the Ming dynasties. Another great sight is the Propaganda Poster Art Center, which reminds visitors about the era of Communist control in China. For a more lighthearted activity check out the Shanghai Ocean Aquarium which is sure to entertain the kids.

If you're in Shanghai be sure to check out this amazing new facility. Also check out the Shanghai visitors website for more ideas on must-see attractions in Shanghai.