Summer in Rome Barbie

There she is, walking through the piazza in high-heeled, white sandals. She appears lost, but her sun-kissed face is all color and passion. She consults her map of Rome. Ah, she stops by a fountain, tosses in a coin. Is she thinking of Ken? Could be. In Italy, everything becomes a romantic adventure, especially for Barbie. A member of Mattel's City Seasons collection, this Barbie does come with sandals and a map, but that's not all. She sports a boxy linen jacket, a bustier top with crisscross straps, and a flowing polka dot skirt with a high, sexy slit. Her hair, held stylishly back by a side-tied scarf, is nestled on her exposed shoulders. She carries a real straw handbag--most likely to bring home goods from the pasta market. But what makes this ensemble even more Italiano are Barbie's large, gold hoop earrings, oversized shades, and wide, gold-buckled belt. Bella, Barbie, bella! --Diane Beall