Desperately Seeking Dolls

Having placed a pre-order from the recent Integrity Reveal, it's time to look over my collection for volunteers to give up their places on the shelves. I've been trying to make sure one doll leaves for every doll that comes in. It is my goal that I try to keep at least one of each mold (which isn't a problem with my favorites: Agnes, Eugenia, Adele 2.0, and Vanessa 1.0).

Since most new dolls are being released on the FR2 body, I am finding it more difficult to let go some of older versions. A friend recently asked what some of my reasons might be for being so stubborn about switching over completely to the FR2 body; I told her I had several good reasons but two of those reasons were Randall Craig and Steven Fraser (Dressmaker Details). The clothes I have purchased from these two gifted designers just don't fit the FR2 body correctly.

As an example, here is Main Event Adele from the 2012 IT Tropicalia Convention. She is the only Adele 3.0 that I like well enough to keep in my collection. She is wearing Randall Craig's "Summertime". It was an edition of 100.

And here is another example, Breaking the Mold Veronique. Again, the only Veronique 2.0 to reside here. She is wearing a sundress from Dressmaker Details "Sherbet Sunset".

As you can see, these dresses were definitely made for the more "full bust" girls. There are several ensembles by these gifted designers in my girls' closets and I couldn't bear not being able to display them.

I received a comment on my last blog post and realized I had made a mistake. For some reason, I consider FR2 and the regular tall FR dolls two separate lines! Breaking the Mold Vero is the only 2.0 version I have on the regular FR body, but I still have last year's Full Spectrum Veronique on the FR2 body! She is a favorite from last year, so she's gonna hang around for a while.

The comment caused me to go to my cabinet and look at the FR2 dolls, which are even segregated in my case! My dear Mama always said, "Never throw out the baby with the bath water." For those of you who don't know that expression, it means "look for the silver lining" - "just because one thing has gone wrong, find the right in the situation". I decided to take out my Randall Craig and Dressmaker Details clothing and do some experimenting with FR2 dolls.

I found that some ensembles actually fit the FR2 body just fine. Here is the criteria: the bodice of any shirt or dress cannot be tailored for the bigger bust. Most skirt ensembles actually look quite good. Here are some examples.

One of the earliest ensembles I own is "Uncomplicated Elegance". This outfit was manufactured before the "tall" bodies. Fortunately, the sleeves are short and the skirt not too form-fitting. The white knit sweater is wrap-around with a string tie. The skirt is a black textured silk. Nightfall Agnes from the 2013 Premiere Convention, agreed to model.

And a close-up because I cannot resist this face!

Another earlier ensemble was "Neutrally Hip". Since I seemed to slight Full Spectrum Veronique in the last post, I asked her assistance.

The blouse is an unstructured bodysuit. The skirt is a lovely camel colored a-line. I can't believe how nice it looks on the FR2 body. I like how these colors work with Vero's face up!

The next ensemble is one that took me forever to find - "I Get A Kick Out of You". A kind doll friend sold it to me! I purchased it with The Muse Adele in mind but was excited to see how great A Touch of Frost Eugenia looked modeling it!

The sleeves are wonderful! I have always loved the criss-cross suspenders. The skirt actually closes on all hooks. The belt even fits! This doll is just so beautiful - thanks to my friend Veronica who corrected the eyes!

I liked this so much, I went running for "April in Paris". I chose a doll who hasn't had a lot of camera time. This is "Subject C" from the 2012 Tropicalia Convention. She is a Color Infusion doll that has been transferred to a FR2 body.

I couldn't get the top hook/eye of the skirt to meet, but the belt helps to hold it all together. The chiffon blouse has to be pulled over the doll's head, so be careful with hairstyles and eyelashes!

This doll reminds me of Sandra Bullock's character in The Blind Side. Maybe she went platinum for the summer!

Since the unstructured body suit from "Neutrally Hip" seemed to fit, I decided to try this polka-dot ensemble. This outfit has a full skirt.

Doesn't Nightshade Kyori, look like a hot housewife? Modesty is definitely not her strong suit! The skirt has a snap and closes in the back. Unfortunately, I cannot remember the name of this ensemble!

I have enjoyed trying these ensembles on my FR2 dolls and am very satisfied with the results. I will try some more next week, so stay tuned for Part Deux!

It's been almost two months since I have reviewed a doll. Some of this is because collectors haven't received anything new since the ITBE Lingerie line in late March/early April. After seeing a photo from my friend Reese on Flickr of In Full Regalia wearing the gown, I decided to finally debox this doll.

Mademoiselles Jolie "Ombres Poetique" is a "mini giftset" that was offered to W Club members in 2014 (I used my $20 gift coupon toward her purchase of $150 + shipping). She was mailed in January, but I had mixed feelings when I looked at her. I was even considering the option of some facial enhancements.

Here is a photo of Mlle Jolie inside her box. As you can see she comes with nice lingerie. Surprisingly, this is the first set of lingerie made exclusively for the FR2 body. (The doll is wearing the coordinating panty under the gown.)

As "mini giftset" the accessories are minimal. There is one pair of shoes, a necklace, earrings, clutch, and additional set of hands. The necklace is quite unique as it is several odd pieces strung together.

The ribbons on those shoes just made me cringe to look at them. Back in the plastic and put away. I found some other shoes easier to put on and take off.

Here she is, Ombres Poetique Mademoiselles Jolie, wearing the biggest gown every produced by Integrity Toys. It's HUGE! It's sort of like Mattel's Silkstone "In The Pink"; it's so voluminous. I am not a fan of "unfinished edges" (C'mon guys this is definitely a Barbie Silkstone thing - White Diamonds and Gala Gown). The tea-stain color just makes it look dirty to me. Unfortunately, I believe Place Vendome Victoire Roux from the 2012 Tropicalia Convention is a superior version of a gown using this color.

Since I've been redressing dolls in Randall Craig fashions recently, I thought I would try a different gown. Any help identifying the name of this one would be appreciated! It's a lovely fit!

How about something more "business"? Maybe Randall Craig's "Fur Suited". It's a winter ensemble, but I wanted something very luxe for this lady. Love her in this! Another great fit!

And even though my original intention was to let the hair down and change the lip color/eye shadow, I think she is quite striking. I may enjoy her as presented for a while before making that decision.

Personally, I believe she is very lovely and was worth the price. It is a beautiful use of the Luchia/Isha sculpt. As there were over 1200 in the edition size, she can still be picked up on the secondary market at good price. I know it feels nice to get a doll that is so perfect when you open the box!

I've really enjoyed trying the different Randall Craig ensembles on FR2 dolls. This is the second part of my findings.

1) The pants ensembles do not fit. They are too short and will not close in the back. Those will stay for the regular FR/NuFace/Victoire dolls.

2) Even though the pants do not fit, it seems the capris do! What a pleasant surprise! Here is Rock Me Baby Rayna feeling ready for summer.

3) The Monogram dresses fit quite well. This one is called "Elegant" and Fashion Explorer Vanessa Perrin is modeling. The cummerbund skirt top does not completely close in the back. The blouse is a nice fit.

I was fortunate to win the next ensemble in a contest on Doll Divas a couple years ago. I think Elusive Creature Natalia looks wonderful in it. It was a Yahoo Group Exclusive that came in several different colors. I don't know what it's called.

4) The vintage dresses designed for FR that have the fuller skirts need the larger bust to truly look their best, especially if the dress is fitted. Here is Renegade Dasha modeling "I Know A Place".

And I can never do a redressing post without including Agnes Von Weiss. October Issue insisted on showing you how "Just An Impression" looks.

This one needed a slight modification in the back to look right.

So, as a summary:

Most skirts fit and will close in the back!
Fashions designed for Monogram/NuFace usually fit but may not close completely in the back
Short sleeve blouses, bodysuits, and sweaters fit quite well
Although pants aren't long enough, the capris look great!
Dresses with fitted bodices require pinning or threading to pull the excess cloth back.

Randall Craig's clothing is very well made. It is tailored beautifully, lined, and exquisitely designed. Unfortunately, Randall Craig hasn't released anything new in the past couple of years, so it's getting increasingly difficult to find. Some of the items bring a high secondary market price since Silkstone and other 12" doll collectors are always on the search for fashions as well. I hope this series has been beneficial to my readers. If anyone has "A Little Moonlight" for a reasonable price, let me know!

Foreigner sang about her in 1981. Not counting convention dolls, she is the first FR2 doll to really "do it" for me. She arrived last week and has gotten a great deal of camera time.

She is Rare Appearance Dania Zarr and was the last "club doll" for W Club members in 2014. (I can dismiss the 6 month wait when they show up looking like this!)

And a closeup in the box. Those eyes are an amazing, almost Tiffany Blue.

Here are the accessories. I think this is the nicest handbag ever produced. The bracelet has little citrine rhinestones that match the earrings! Some collectors have been struggling with the production of the shoes because the material is cut in strips and sometimes the pattern is "tighter and darker" on one shoe than the other. Very nice sunglasses and I'm loving the gloved hands in gray.

The proof is usually in the pudding. Let's see how she looks out of the box!

How about a little trip outside at dusk? This doll has such a vintage vibe. She truly takes me back to the 1960's. Many collectors have been comparing her to Elizabeth Taylor and Jackie Kennedy.

Does the elegance of Rare Appearance transfer when redressed? You bet it does! She is wearing the Mattel Silkstone Grace Kelly "The Romance" dress. It seems perfectly styled to her.

Some collectors have started taking her hair down. It is long, thick, and luxurious. For now, I am enjoying the elegance of the design. My doll came with perfect eyelashes and hair. I couldn't be happier. She has brought my excitement back to FR collecting.

If you really want a treat, check out Rebecca's review on "Inside the Fashion Doll Studio":

Inside the Fashion Doll Studio Review

You won't regret it!

I gave a lot of blog time recently to my Randall Craig ensembles. Rare Appearance Dania Zarr derailed me from moving on to Steven Fraser's Dressmaker Details clothing line. Even though school is out now, like a good wife, I got up this morning and got my husband off to work. After having coffee, returning to bed was not an option, so I decided to play dolls!

I was inspired to put one of the FR2 girls in a business suit this morning! One of my favorite suits is "Boucle Today". It is a beautiful color and comes with extraordinary jewelry. Unfortunately, I couldn't get the bodysuit over the FR2 hips - too much good food this weekend! I did find a very similar FR version that worked beautifully. Here is a full length photo being modeled by Edge Vanessa Perrin:

I added the bracelets from my FR collection. There is an additional white seed pearl necklace, but I restrained myself. I couldn't believe the shoes fit, even though the heels aren't high enough.

I think the necklace is incredible. The earrings are also original to the ensemble.

I decided to remove the jewelry and put on the gloves and jacket. The chain and pearl belt is sewn onto the skirt.

I may remove that big pink cloth flower, but have left everything original so far. The ensemble will fit the silkstone, jamieshow 12", and regular FR bodies easily. With the addition of a different blouse/bodysuit, it looks great on the FR2 girls! Don't you agree?

You may love her or she may leave you cold, but no one can deny that this doll is special. Since 2006, Agnes Von Weiss has been released in 23 separate versions but has never been available for retail purchase. Since I've already done a blog entry on her history, I won't repeat it again but here is the link to an updated version:

Production History of Agnes Von Weiss

For some reason, in my imagination, Agnes Von Weiss is a blonde, so Aristocratic was a no brainer for me. I just got home from vacation and she was waiting on me (and more than a little miffed that she had to stay in that box longer than necessary).

Here is a closeup. This is a new eye screening for integrity. I was very worried that I wouldn't like it, but it's quite nice in real life. I think the entire doll turned out better than the promotional pictures.

Here are the accessories.

The red purse is super cute and has a very nice strap at the bottom that aids in the doll holding it in her hand! The shoes are nice patent leather pumps (no strings, ribbons, or buckles!). A pair of black gloved hands that are perfect for this ensemble, some new style earrings, and a cute woven cloche hat complete the look.

Here is a closeup.

Of course Ms. Von Weiss is not satisfied with the minimal jewelry. There have been arguments that the pattern on the dress is bows and another group of collectors who think it is butterflies. I fall in the butterflies camp myself, so I found an old rhinestone earring to use as a pin for her hat. What do you think?

As elegant as this is, I decided to try adding a feather.

Full Length with the feather.

Ms. Von Weiss believes, "Go big or go home!" Look at this feather!

She can either wear this to meet the Queen or when she bets on horses. Sometimes less is more!

I mentioned earlier how I always think of Agnes as a blonde. Here is a photo of several blonde (different shades) of Agnes Von Weiss with a part in her hair. They are undressed because I didn't want the clothing to distract from the comparison. (I would've included Poesie Enchantee but she is still NRFB.)

In conclusion, this is the second official Fashion Royalty doll I've received this year and I couldn't be happier. I am actually quite ecstatic with them both. I hope this trend continues. Aristocratic is going to be an awesome addition to my collection!

On February 9, 2013, I wrote a blog entry entitled, "I Do NOT Collect Poppy Parker". Here is the link:

I Do NOT Collect Poppy Parker

Seven dolls from that entry have been sold to other collectors who DO collect Poppy Parker. Unfortunately in 2013, Integrity Toys released a line that I truly loved called "At The 1965 International Fair". Each doll represented a different country. The club doll that year was a tour guide. What an adorable group of dolls who found their way to my home. How did that happen?

In 2014, I held tight to my resolve and did not purchase anything from the "spy" theme. Personally, I don't like the spy theme and have never enjoyed James Bond or any other spy movie. It's just not my thing. Then IT shook things up with some 1970's inspired dolls at the Gloss Convention. I instantly fell in love with Wild Thing Poppy Parker.

I really appreciate "The Fifth Anniversary Collection" packaging. I tried to talk myself out of buying this doll several times. Then a seller recently listed this one on e-bay with such perfect eyes. I could no longer resist!

Wild Thing comes with some extraordinary accessories. In addition to that super cool striped fur coat, tights, knit turtleneck blouse, belt and "suede" vest and shorts, you get a leather cowboy inspired hat, earrings, sunglasses, and some incredible boots. (Although the photo makes the hat look black, it is actually very chocolate brown.)

Those boots wore me out trying to get all those little buckles to close! I've met David Buttry and I know he doesn't have tiny hands, so he must have some sadistic tendencies. I thought I would start cussin' before I was halfway finished.

When those come off, they aren't going back on any time soon! I really do appreciate this outlandish outfit!

There is a flickr poster who uses the name "Nata-leto" who posted a comparison photo to a 1971 Gucci advertisement for this ensemble. The boots are Valentino. (Maybe it's Valentino who has the sadistic tendencies!)

Wild Thing Poppy looks so cute in her little ensemble without the coat and hat! I may not collect Poppy Parker, but I guess I can still appreciate a remarkable doll when she comes along! When I make up my mind to remove those boots, we'll see how she looks redressed!

I hope all of my readers and followers have a safe holiday. I hope you find time for happiness with loved ones and family.

I decided to focus on a favorite doll and enjoy my evening instead of dwelling on the fact that I was unlucky in the recent ITBE lottery and came up empty-handed. I have many beautiful dolls to enjoy here and am more than blessed to own them.

Happy 4th of July! There is always fireworks when Natalia Fatale is around!

Apparently, they are getting in somehow! Another one!

Angel in Blue Poppy Parker. If this keeps up, I will no longer be able to say "I Do NOT Collect Poppy Parker." (I guess I shouldn't be saying that now. What am I? A closeted Poppy Parker collector?)

I was able to snag one on e-bay at a great price. How do you resist such a face? And that hair is so amazing. Blonde hair and brown eyes. Crisp red lips. Thatched brow lines. She looks more modern than previous Poppy girls, but I LOVE this doll!

Shock Bon Bon has been residing in a box in the closet for a very long time. I have purchased her three times and sold her twice! She was the very first Vanessa Perrin mold 1.0; however, she suffered from a horrible eye screening.

As everyone knows, the bodies on these early dolls deteriorate and become brittle. After her neck broke and I removed the knob from inside her head, I carefully wrapped her head for safe keeping and put her away.

Last summer I sent three dolls to Veronica Hage for enhancement. (All three are among my favorites in my collection now.) Veronica was my table host at the only convention I ever attended and has become a friend. I love her work. I've never been a collector who chases after One of a Kind (OOAK) dolls. I like my dolls to retain a certain resemblance to their original production releases. Veronica is great at enhancing a doll without losing its original personality during the transition. That's a difficult feat and one I appreciate and admire.

I had been corresponding with Veronica over the winter and spring, so when her schedule opened a little, I jumped in! Shock Bon Bon was one of the dolls I sent her. She has now become Shea.

Few people in the collecting community actually "get me" when it comes to my taste in dolls. Veronica is one of those people. She was so excited to attempt a doll with Heterochromia Iridis (Irises with different colors).

I put Shea on a FR2 body. It just seemed the right thing for her. Unfortunately, there still aren't a lot of clothing options for these dolls. She wants to go shopping for some more clothing!

I am so happy to have this doll in my collection. I think Shea is going to be around for a very long time!

I remember the day in 2007 this doll went on sale at FAO Schwartz. It was total madness. I actually called the NYC store multiple times to purchase her. My perseverance paid off.

The gift set includes three separate outfits. There is the evening gown, taupe colored sheath with coat, lingerie with lounging robe that has marabou trim, purse, sunglasses, jewelry, and three pair of shoes. This was the very first time Kyori was produced in Japan skin tone. (It was three years before the effort was duplicated.)

The presentation was beautiful and I love blonde haired Kyori girls (my very favorite Fashion Royalty doll of all time is Blonde Ginza).

[Includes edit to reflect a reader's comment: From the very beginning this doll reminded me of a character from the King Arthur myths. I love the Merlin mini-series and A Brighter Side has always reminded me of Miranda Richardson portraying the "Lady of the Lake". The Lady of the Lake has been given different names by different authors, including the name Nimue (pronounced Nim-uh-e). In the Merlin mini-series, the writer's gave Nimue a separate character portrayed by Isabella Rosselini. I'm sorry my earlier blog entry was not specific enough. I combined the mini-series character with the Nimue name from written myth. ]

This is easily the best gown ever produced by Integrity Toys!

The gift set was so beautiful, I wanted to leave it untouched as long as possible. It took eight years to finally debox this doll, and the reason I did was that the head had started to yellow slightly. ACK!

This doll's eyes always reminded me of someone who was drowsy. I decided she was joining some sisters on a trip to Veronica Hage's spa. I decided on green eyes that were centered. I also wanted to get rid of those pesky dark lines in the lips. So, here is my Lady of the Lake.

When Nimue isn't minding the lake, she travels among us disguised as a beautiful business lady.

I have already reviewed Mme Jolie on June 2, 2015. Here is the link:

http://www.desperatelyseekingdolls.blogspot.com/2015/06/and-award-for-biggest-integrity-dress.html

Truthfully, I actually like this doll's face-up quite well. I may buy a second one, nude, later.

I think that Flickr is very dangerous. You see things on it that you want. I was inspired by a Flickr photo (account Aquatalls's Corner), painted by QuanaP of an enhanced Mme Jolie. I hope they think imitation is the highest form of flattery because I had to have a similar doll! I don't mean I "wanted". I don't mean I "desired". I mean I absolutely "had to have" a doll like this. I commissioned Veronica Hage to create my version.

When she arrived back from Hage Spa, I immediately washed her hair and de-bumped it. It required a boil perm to get the curls out. Introducing … Aryn (sounds like Aaron).

I tousled her hair a little. WOW!

I think Ms. Aryn is smoking hot! I love those lips! I just want to lick them! Her eyes are so penetrating. I think she is a true favorite around here! Maybe even a new muse!

Do I even need an original version??

To the tune of "It's Raining Men".

I was disappointed that I wasn't drawn in the lottery to purchase the recent ITBE Fine Jewel Rayna. I'm a fan of that mold and knew that the A-Tone version would be very popular. Her prices NRFB on secondary market are triple her original retail price. I just refuse to give someone that much of my hard earned money. I don't like buying from speculators - I believe they are parasites preying on the collecting community. (Was that too harsh?)

As a "seasoned" collector I know that patience is a virtue. A collector recently offered this doll nude for a good price, so I grabbed her up.

I don't mind not having the dress. The seller included the panties, original box, stand, and even the shoes. I was very happy! Her hair was a little greasy feeling, so I washed it out. For some reason, she looks like a "label collecting girl", so Fine Jewel Rayna is wearing a Burberry style dress from Clear Lan.

I like buying dolls that are nude or have been displayed/redressed and loved. There's no worry about devaluing them. (I guess that may be why I don't like buying a new car. When you drive it off the lot, it loses value!) I have a couple dolls NRFB that I just cannot bring myself to take out because they are worth so much. That is one of the reasons, I sold my NRFB High Toned Rayna last year. I couldn't justify taking her out and redoing her hair when she was worth so much on secondary market.

I had seen someone on flickr post photos of a High Toned Rayna that was amazing. You cannot imagine my excitement when this doll was listed on e-bay, BIN with free shipping. The price was less than for what I sold mine. She was complete, and her hair is perfection. This High Toned Rayna has been very well cared for and just needed a new home. I couldn't click that BIN fast enough.

This restyled doll is everything I wanted in a High Toned Rayna. She is also wearing a Clear Lan fashion.

So, here at my house this week, "It's Rayna Dolls … hallelujah!"

I've not posted as much this summer as last because I started trying to organize data about Integrity Toys (IT) products. There are so many different molds/characters and lines that it's hard to keep track of everything.

It used to be easy for collectors to keep up with things because certain characters were usually produced in specific skin tones. There were exceptions but there was quite a bit of consistency. Example: Agnes Von Weiss is typically the Japan skin tone with the exception of a couple dolls produced in the tan skin tone. However, IT has been mixing things up quite a bit lately; in the last couple years, Integrity has added to the confusion by producing characters that were typically one race as a different race.

There is additional confusion because characters are crossing lines now also being produced on different body types. Many collectors are switching heads and bodies but don't know what to use as donors.

I have spent a lot of time this summer developing a database. Here is the main link:

Fashion Royalty Reference Data Base

And here are a couple easy links. One is for skin tones only (please note that the terminology reflects what is commonly used by the collecting community and terms developed and published by Integrity Toys to describe the skin tone colors - these terms were not created by myself; it was not my intention to offend anyone):

Integrity Toys Skin Tones

Then I have pages for specific lines.

Fashion Royalty/FR2:

Fashion Royalty Character Database

NuFace (Not updated yet for the IFDC dolls):

NuFace Character Database

Hommes:

Hommes Character Data base

I have added these links to the left side of this blog page ease of future use. I hope everyone finds them helpful.

I am working on Poppy Parker and Monogram databases. Those should come available soon. I have had several readers inquire about skin tones and characters. I hope this will be helpful to everyone.

I bet a lot of my followers have been waiting for this entry. It's official. I can no longer claim to "NOT" collect Poppy Parker. I have become completely smitten with Angel In Blue.

My very first Poppy Parker was actually the very first released, Summer Magic. I had been collecting Misaki dolls for a couple years and was hoping she was the "American counterpart". Unfortunately, they did not photograph well together. I thought about selling her, but in some ways she reminds me of myself when I was younger. I have brown eyes and had red hair that I wore in a bob with bangs. Although I sold all of my other Poppy Parker dolls from 2009 - 2011, I was unable to part with Summer Magic and one other.

That other was I Love How You Love Me. Those who have been collecting these girls since the beginning, know this doll fondly as the subject of "Poppygate". She was an exclusive and collectors crashed sites repeatedly trying to acquire her. She was so difficult to get that I could never sell her. (Also, I relaxed her hair out of this style - which I regret)

In 2012, I had to have She's Not There wearing the Bus Stop Darla Daley ensemble. She looks just like the Twiggy museum mannequin. She's never been redressed. I consider her a miniature piece of pop art.

I also kept Hot Dots Poppy as a souvenir from the only doll convention I've ever attended.

Four dolls does not a collection make - at least that was my reasoning. After all, I had sold thirteen other Poppy Parker dolls from that period. I was definitely less of a Poppy Parker collector than someone who collected them, right?

Then in 2013, we got the "1965 International Fair Collection". I had to have all of them plus the To The Fair tour guide. This was a mini-collection that was truly remarkable. I was definitely teetering on the edge of becoming a full fledged Poppy Parker Collector. The photo below is of Irresistible In India with To The Fair.

Fortunately, I was able to avoid the entire 2014 Spy Theme. I reasoned that if I could resist an entire line, I wasn't a true, red-blooded Poppy Parker collector. Since it was Poppy's 5th Anniversary, I did allow myself the W Club Exclusive, Joyous Celebration:

and recently was able to pick up That Holiday Feeling:

I was very disappointed when my number wasn't drawn in the lottery to purchase That Holiday Feeling, but when dolls started shipping, I was glad to have missed her because many of the dolls had very bad hair. You can't imagine my happiness at finding this one on secondary market at an incredible price. And her hair is PERFECT!

When Integrity Toys revealed the 2015 line, I knew there were three dolls that were coming to live here. There was no way I was going to pass on the first African American Poppy Parker, Midas Touch. She arrived last week but hasn't had an official deboxing yet. Here is a special preview photo!

Spring Song arrived a few weeks ago, but she had an eye screening problem. As you can see, it looks like she had a heat stroke while waiting on my porch in the hot June sunshine. She is the first doll of 2015 that required me to contact Patient Care for a replacement. (The left eye screening is way messed up!)

The replacement Spring Song arrived this weekend after being reported to Patient Care on June 17. (Not bad turn around!) Since Integrity Dolls are produced by hand in an assembly-line, each doll can look very different. it has never been more apparent to me than with Spring Song. Here is the original with the replacement.

And from behind:

Other collectors sometimes laugh at me because I have waited long periods of time to purchase a doll that was "better" than others in the edition. This was especially true for Shapeshifiter Natalia, Paparazzi Bait Adele, Soul Deep Adele, and Ginza Kyori.

Here is a full length of Spring Song with her replacement head attached.

This bright blue has "Stain Alert" written all over it. The ensemble is lovely, but my Poppies like to dress more current.

And here is another sun dress. Not bad for $1.96.

While waiting for her replacement, I got carried away with the convention collection from last year and was able to pick up Angel in Blue (above), Wild Thing (previous post), and Dark Moon (below) at great prices from one seller.

Out of this World hasn't arrived yet. Mood Changers is expected this week, and I purchased extra bodies so each could be independently dressed.

I guess, I "DO" Collect Poppy Parker. I really do.

Integrity Toys has a private membership group called "The W Club". There are many benefits to joining this club each winter (they have a window of opportunity to join that lasts a few weeks and then closes for the year). In addition to being on the "First To Know" list for doll releases and convention information, members get the opportunity to purchase special edition dolls as "upgrades", membership specials, and lottery opportunities. Many collectors purchase multiple memberships just to enhance their chances of getting a special doll.

The first official W Club Membership doll this year was a Poppy Parker gift set called Mood Changers. Below is the photo by Integrity Toys that introduced this purchase opportunity. I have always preferred Poppy as a redhead, so I knew I was going to purchase this gift set. It cost $160 and I knew I would be able to sell the other heads and clothing pieces.

This set utilizes the "Quick Switch Feature" which allows the collector to transfer heads on one doll body. That means one body and three heads. Fortunately, shortly following the release of this collection, Integrity Toys offered additional Poppy Parker bodies for purchase.

Everyone in the W Club has been anxiously awaiting the arrival of this gift set. Here is a photo of the actual production package.

WOW! There were three separate outfits, two pair of shoes, two bacelets, two pair of earrings, one purse, three sets of hands (including one painted with black gloves) and two pair of hose. Many wondered why there wasn't a pair of shoes and jewelry for each ensemble, but since there was only one body, the doll couldn't wear more than one pair of shoes anyway! (Not that a doll can wear four sets of hands!) It would've been nice to have a pair of matching shoes for pants ensemble though. Not that I'm complaining because I believe this is one of the best offerings for the cost ever.

Here is a photo of each doll on a separate body. I added the earrings and shoes to the pants ensemble,

One of the coolest things about this gift set is that each ensemble was inspired by an actual 1960's fashion. (I can't take credit for finding these, but I created the collage).

I did not expect to like the doll with lilac hair as much as I did. She's gorgeous! I've seen several photos of collectors who have relaxed her hair, but, for now, she's fine the way she arrived.

Many collectors have referred to the Louis Feraud pantsuit as "pajamas", but they are lined and extremely well made. I am surprised I like these so much more than I expected.

I did pull this doll's raven hair into a high pony. I just thought she needed more volume. I didn't expect to like this doll either.

The one doll I expected to love was everything I hoped she would be. I totally love this one!

When they start arriving three at a time, it even causes Agnes Von Weiss to shake in her shoes!

I had to use a question mark in the title of this blog entry. This gift set has me confused in many ways. Whenever Integrity Toys (IT) has an online reveal of new dolls, the W Club members are given an opportunity to purchase an exclusive gift set. Last year it was High Visibility Agnes Von Weiss.

High Visiblity Agnes, though not a favorite for me personally, came with a purse, hat, two pair of shoes, three bracelets, earrings, sunglasses, a long mermaid skirt, a pencil skirt, a brown crop jacket, and a bustier. She cost members $135.

This year's offering was Royal Treatment Veronique Perrin. She came with an evening gown, teddy, sheath, coat, a pair of earrings, one bracelet, a purse, one pair of shoes, and a gloved pair of hands. Her cost was $225.

Many W Club members complained about the rise in cost for a gift set with such minimal accessories; others were uncertain about the doll. When both combined, less than 400 were sold. This is quite shocking for an exclusive doll that is made to order based on purchases. The actual production doll has a nice face up in my opinion.

This gown has received no fanfare. It is unlined (unless you count the polka dot underskirt as lining - there is a chiffon overskirt). It does have a satin slip sewn in. The chiffon overskirt is sewn directly onto the black hemline which, in my version, is sewn incorrectly. I believe the pattern was too complicated for the unskilled labor who tried to duplicate it.

I added a crinoline underskirt (from Talking Drama Adele) and replaced the thin belt with a black ribbon and bow. It helped, but I think I will be contacting Patient Care about this garment. I don't care for the earrings she came with, so I added a different pair.

Many collectors are looking for the sheath on secondary market - I bet they'll be looking for a long time since most who purchased the collection wanted the sheath as well. The belt is a real booger to close. It's best to stretch the fabric and thread as much as possible off the doll before trying to close it around the waist. It's quite a well made, lined, sheath.

The box coat is a nice light weight tweed but doesn't seem to go with the summer yellow dress. I added a hat and pin to help the look a little.

The lingerie is quite good! But a pair of thigh high black hose would've been a nice addition.

For me the worth of any doll is how she looks redressed. Here she is wearing her sister Full Spectrum's red dress.

I wanted to show you the hairstyle from the side.

I think she looks great in black. She borrowed Dovima's Woman Who Thinks black dress.

And since so many are comparing her to Agnes, here she is with Aristocratic (released earlier this year).

I think she actually holds her own and the two complement each other. My final thoughts, for what they are worth:

I believe IT missed an opportunity here. It wouldn't have been a major cost to include another pair of shoes, some hose, better jewelry (including a pin for the coat), and a hat. That would've tipped the scale. I believe the Royal Treatment is a lovely doll, but they overcharged for a gift set that wasn't executed well. It's left a bad taste in the mouths of their loyal collectors.

Integrity Toys (IT) introduced the Fashion Royalty line in 2001-2002 with two characters - a white doll named Veronique Perrin, the owner of an acclaimed fashion house, and her black supermodel friend, Adele Makeda. These were the only two characters until 2004 when we met Veronique's sister, Vanessa, and Veronique's fashion competitor, Natalia Fatale, who had an Asian model named Kyori Sato. In 2005, we received SE Asian superstar Isha Kalpana Narayanan. I think this cultural diversity was a driving force for collectors who wanted dolls who represented all races internationally.

There were three separate editions of Isha in 2005, and two versions of a single edition in 2006.

IT decided to do something it had never done in 2007. They changed the skin tone on a mold and gave collectors a separate character. The white version of Isha became Luchia and turned out to be more popular with collectors than the SE Asian counterpart. There were three Luchia dolls produced that year and only one Isha. This happened again in 2008 with three more Luchia dolls and only one Isha.

In 2009 Isha disappeared altogether and Luchia appeared solo in two editions. The mold did not make a showing at all in 2010. In 2011 Luchia became a different mold altogether and has only appeared twice (but somehow showed up at the convention with the original Isha mold). In 2011, IT decided that Isha could be any color they produced, but just not the SE Asian skin tone as they retired that color. Confused yet???

This summer, collectors received their very first FR2 Isha, Style Notes.

I love the dress (especially the little black panels under the arms). The accessories included were a great pair of stiletto pumps and cream purse.

She has a lovely screening.

Here is a comparison with Age of Opulence Isha in the original SE Asian Skin Tone. I think she's lost some of her ethnic identity.

But she is still a very beautiful doll and I like having her in my collection. I've seen photos where collectors have taken her hair down and she looks phenomenal.

First, I feel the need to apologize for seemingly abandoning my blog. For those who don't know, I am an elementary school teacher. This year I was assigned teaching math to gifted children in grades 1 - 5. I teach about 120 students each day and am learning the Common Core math curriculum as I go. To say I am overwhelmed, would be a grave understatement.

I have received comments from readers regarding how much they would enjoy seeing my display of dolls. Sadly, it is quite minimal. I have very limited space for display, so many of my dolls are boxed or in containers. Only my very favorite dolls are on display and are nude for fear that their clothing may stain their bodies (which are near impossible to replace reasonably).

Due to these limitations, it takes a special doll to come out of the box. When a doll arrives here, she is immediately inspected with jewelry repair goggles. Those goggles allow me to identity flaws before photographing her. Most dolls remain stored in their boxes or are sold. I cannot justify keeping a doll around that is inferior to those already living here. That's why I have my rule "One doll comes in, one doll goes out".

When Timeless Adele was ordered back in May, most of my dolls felt quite secure in their spots. "We needn't worry. There's only one Adele mold 3.0 that has made it as a resident and she's sentimental due to the Tropicalia Convention." Of course they are referring to Main Event (2012). There's something I like about her "Street Smart" attitude and it's true that Tropicalia was the only doll convention I've ever attended.

I've ownedStyle Counsel from the 2011 Integrity Convention:

I've owned Main Attitude (2012) and still have that remarkable suit.

Paparazzi Darling (2013) resides in the closet NRFB (the only African American FR2 body produced so far!).

And Vivid Encounter (2014) became a body donor.

Obviously, I am less than impressed with mold 3.0 and don't believe this mold has received much love from anyone in the Fashion Royalty collecting community for that matter, so my girls were feeling confident that Timeless would not live up to her name here.

Timeless Adele (mold 3.0) arrived yesterday and quickly jumped ahead of other dolls that have arrived recently from this line. I wish I had taken a photo of her hair when she arrived as it looked like a big cotton ball sitting on top of her head. It took me some "Got2be Glued", a micro comb, two corsage pins, a Vintage Barbie black hair band, and a whole lotta patience, but I finally came close to achieving my goal with the hair. Here is a photo of her in box .

Here are the accessories. NOTE: One of the earrings broke as I was removing it from the card, so her dressed photos include a pair of other earrings that actually match the ring quite well.

I am NOT a gown person but have fallen in love with this one. She looks fantastic standing between Midnight Star Elise and After Tonight Eugenia.

Unfortunately, the girls have realized someone needs to move over and give up her spot. "Wouldn't it be just as easy to purchase another display case?" asked in a small wavery voice.

Timeless Adele definitely will be spending quite a bit of time around here. I am excited about the possibility of redressing her. I'm not sure if it's the hair, the skin tone, the face up, or the combination of these, but in my opinion this is the best presentation of mold 3.0 yet!

Picking and Choosing

No Baby In The Bath Water

And the Award for Biggest Integrity Dress Goes To ….

Randall Craig Part II

Waiting For A Girl Like You ...

Returning To Work on Monday

A Legend In Her Own Mind

I STILL Do NOT Collect Poppy Parker

Happy July 4th, 2015

I Need to Plug Up My Mailbox

Introducing "Shea"

Introduction #2 - Nimue

And Here's ... Aryn

"It's Rayna Dolls … hallelujah!"

I've Been Busy

I Guess I DO Collect Poppy Parker

A Veritable Poppy-Palooza

The Royal Treatment?

Style Notes Isha

Timeless