What's with the wings?

There were at least three ballgowns sold for Barbie in the 1980s that had wings, a shawl, ruff, whatever you want to call it.  I don't own these outfits because I wasn't fond of them when they were new at the store.  It's just been recently that I noticed this continuous theme.

In 1980 (booklet 0007-2750 B) we had Fashion Favorite 1429 Fresh N Cool.  This one had a shawl with three layers of ruffles.

In 1982 (booklet 0007-3130 G3), there was Fashion Collectible 3678.  In Europe this outfit was called Opera, and the wings are actually sleeves with three layers of ruffles.

Lastly, in 1984, Barbie wore Twice as Nice 4828 Party Pair in booklet 0007-4680-G2. In Europe this dress was called Sonfonia (Symphony).  This dress was light pink and blue.  There may have been a Kmart variation of this outfit.

I am just going to show you the booklet pages.

In 1980, Barbie had a ballgown called Fresh N Cool.
It is red in the booklet but it is actually more of an orange tone.

The 1982 gown called Opera is featured
on several of Barbie's cases for that year.

The skirt but not the ruffled top
could be switched inside out in 1984's Party Pair.