Barbie Holiday 2021 vs 2022: Which Holiday Doll to Buy?

Two holiday Barbies, two collecting paths

When you’re choosing between the 2021 and 2022 Holiday Barbie dolls, the decision often comes down to whether you want a specific look or more variety. The Barbie Holiday 2021 Doll in dark hair offers a single, detailed design with a metallic bodice and shimmering skirt. The Barbie Holiday Doll 2022 gives you four hair and complexion options, each in display-ready packaging. Neither is inherently better—they simply suit different collector priorities.

Design and display: gown details vs. hair variety

• Barbie Holiday 2021 Doll - Dark Hair: Features a gown with off-the-shoulder ruched sleeves, a metallic bodice with sculpted gemstones, a full skirt with silver shimmer, a voluminous tulle peplum, silvery pearl earrings, and sparkling eye makeup. The dark hair is a fixed characteristic, so this doll appeals if you prefer that specific look.
• Barbie Holiday Doll 2022 - Select Figure(s): Comes in four hair/complexion variations (wavy blonde, dark brown, and two others), each sold separately. The packaging is a display-ready collector box, making it easy to keep the doll in pristine condition or display it without unboxing. The variety lets you choose a doll that matches your collection’s palette.

What you get with each doll

• Barbie Holiday 2021 Doll - Dark Hair: Dressed for the occasion, 2021 Holiday Barbie doll shines in a gorgeous gown with off-the-shoulder ruched sleeves and a metallic bodice that shines with sculpted "gemstones." Her full skirt glistens with silver shimmer, complemented by a voluminous tulle peplum. These details make the 2021 doll a standout for collectors who value intricate, festive fashion with a dark-haired look.

  

• Barbie Holiday Doll 2022 - Select Figure(s): Brand: Mattel — Barbie Series: Holiday Doll 2022 Variations: Four hair/complexion options Packaging: Display-ready collector box Audience: Collector The four options and collector box give you flexibility to choose a doll that fits your display and keeps it protected.

  

Price and value: what each asks of your budget

At the time of writing, the Barbie Holiday 2021 Doll - Dark Hair is listed at $37.20 (compared to a catalog price of $60.99), while the Barbie Holiday Doll 2022 is $35.29 (compared to $52.67). The 2022 doll is slightly less expensive and offers four options, so you can pick the one you like without paying a premium for a specific hair color. The 2021 doll costs a bit more but delivers a highly detailed gown and a fixed dark-haired design that some collectors prefer. Keep in mind that prices can change, and the comparison prices are catalog references, not guarantees of future value.

Decision rules for your collection

• Choose the 2021 doll if…: You want a dark-haired Holiday Barbie with a specific gown design and don’t need multiple options. The detailed bodice and shimmering skirt make it a strong display piece.
• Choose the 2022 doll if…: You prefer to select from different hair colors or complexions, or you want the doll to arrive in a display-ready collector box. The lower price also leaves room for other purchases.
• Consider both if…: You collect holiday Barbies across years and want to represent both 2021 and 2022 in your display. They complement each other without duplicating the same look.

Holiday Barbie questions, answered

Is the Barbie Holiday 2021 doll only available with dark hair?

The product record for this listing specifies dark hair, so that is the version you’ll receive. If you want other hair colors, the 2022 doll offers four variations.

Can I choose a specific hair color for the 2022 Holiday Barbie?

Yes, the 2022 doll is sold with a dropdown menu for style options, including wavy blonde and dark brown hair, among others. Each is sold separately.

Which doll is better for display?

The 2022 doll comes in a display-ready collector box, which can be ideal if you want to keep it protected or show it without unboxing. The 2021 doll’s detailed gown makes it a striking display piece even without special packaging.