Hawaii-based Filipino-American fashion designer Iris Viacrusis has become a devoted collector of Barbie dolls, amassing a collection of over 1,500 dolls. Inspired by Barbie’s iconic presence, Viacrusis’ interest began with his collection of Filipiñiana Barbies, including unique pieces like an Igorot Barbie and a Filipiñiana attire collection. These dolls have served as more than just collectibles for Viacrusis; they’ve ignited his creative spark and designing doll dresses and gowns has enabled him to start his fashion career and gain fame both in the US and abroad.

However, Viacrusis’ Barbie dolls are more than just a creative outlet. They enable him to promote Filipino culture and environmental awareness. He uses the dolls to educate children about diverse aspects of the Philippines, drawing attention to cultural richness and the importance of environmental consciousness. “Lending back and forth when it comes to recycling, being environmentally conscious, going back to the Filipino culture,” he added. “I pull out the dolls to give the kids an interest, to learn about the different cultures of the Philippines.”

Viacrusis has also leveraged his collection to showcase Filipino heritage. At the Filipino fiesta in Honolulu, he displayed a range of Filipino artifacts and indigenous clothing he had collected from various regions of the Philippines. Beyond just playthings, Viacrusis sees Barbie as a multifaceted source of inspiration, enabling him to share his culture, creativity, and values with the world. “She lends a facet of different things where I can do the cultural things, I could reach certain kids,” Viacrusis said. “That is basically what the whole thing about Barbie is, being inspired by play.”