Charlotte Olympia Barbie

July 13, 2017, 8:11 pm

≪ Previous: East 59th Street - Part Deux - Ladies Who Lunch

When this Charlotte Olympia Giftset was released at Barbie Collector last fall, it sold out in minutes. I didn't even try to get one. A "Gold Label' Barbie means that less than 10,000 are produced. In this case, the box states "No more than 2,700 Worldwide". In Barbie terms, that's a truly limited edition!

Charlotte Olympia Barbie immediately started its eBay run, selling for up to 4x its original retail cost of $125. I gave up hope. The prices have come down quite a bit, but the average is still almost double.

Earlier this month, I thought I would do a random eBay search. You cannot imagine how excited I was to find a seller offering her at original retail price. Yes, dear reader, that's right! I actually bought a NRFB Charlotte Olympia Barbie for $125. And it actually arrived in perfect condition! I was almost afraid to open it.

But open I did!

Charlotte Olympia is a London based designer who started her business in 2008. Her products are produced in Italy and are inspired by "old Hollywood Glamour". They are quite expensive! (If you haven't figured out the spider web connection, think "Charlotte's Web". )

Here is a photo of the Barbie. She uses the "Shani" body which is like a twist n turn waist doll with legs that click at the knee. The head looks like s silkstone head! She is quite a lovely doll.

Then you have all the accessories that are included. There is a the small clutch and the iconic banana shoulder bag (that's 3 purses). There is a pair of cat eye sunglasses and a "web" fascinator/hat. You get the red shoes which are a miniature version of the "Dolly Shoe" which sells for $795.

Then there are the green "Eve" shoes. Which are just gorgeous!

Constance couldn't resist the green shoes!

And then there's the iconic kitten flats that can also be purchased on her website. (Do yourself a favor and just go browse the official website. It's some very special eye-candy.)

These shoes actually look good on the Made To Move Barbie foot. Here is a photo.

And then a closeup.

Her earrings are also web-inspired. She is wearing some very lovely red "leather" gloves that match the purse, but the coolest part is there are plastic protectors inside the gloves! Love this idea. (Pay attention IT)

There is also a torso protector under the jacket! The packaging on this collector's edition is amazing! The details are intricate and superb. The leopard is the Charlotte Olympia mascot whose name is Bruce. He has a shopping bag in his teeth. The set also contains a shoe box with shoe protector bag.

Now, the important question: Can this ensemble can be shared with IT dolls? The sheath is closed with velcro, so there is some "give and take". It looks amazing on Shapeshifter Natalia Fatale. "Nice kitty!"

This is an exceptional giftset with a lot of fun play time! Had I been able to secure one last fall, it would have easily made it into my top 10 of 2016. If you can find one at retail, jump on it! It's worth every penny!

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Dolls, Dolls, Dolls

August 19, 2017, 3:39 pm

≫ Next: Feeling Wild Giselle Diefendorf

≪ Previous: Charlotte Olympia Barbie

With the flood of new dolls, the song "Girls, Girls, Girls" by Motley Crue keeps running through my head. It seems, no matter how hard I try, I'm just unable to get a firm hold on my collection.

For those of you who have followed me over the past years, you know that my collection has been quite organic. Even with my guidelines for collecting dolls, I sometimes feel overwhelmed. I have narrowed my scope considerably, focusing on Ellowyne and dolls produced by Integrity Toys (IT). Of course, like everyone else, I get an occasional "fix" from a play line doll, and I still haven't been able to let go a couple of my favorite Pullips.

As new dolls come in, I really have to consider them carefully. I ask myself, "Can this doll replace one that is already here? Does this doll bring something different to my collection?"

It used to be relatively simple to manage my doll collection. Originally IT only produced a few doll lines and they could share much of their clothing. Dynamite Girls, Poppy Parker, and Misaki swap out ensembles readily. NuFace and Monogram often shared with FR. (Remember when Mattel was producing nice clothes that IT dolls could borrow??)

Add to that the convenience of selling dolls on The Doll Page and it was quite an enjoyable hobby. Dolls were produced in edition sizes that allowed a collector to move their collection along. It was easier to be financially fiscal with your collecting habits.

I find myself trying to be more selective and have made a few mistakes along the way. I try to resist purchasing dolls on secondary market (excluding convention items). The edition sizes are becoming ridiculous as more and more opportunists have joined as scalpers - the latest releases at 1200+. It's difficult to take a chance on the purchase of a $150 doll when it can't even be sold on secondary market at original retail. (Not to mention e-bay, paypal fees, and shipping!) When you are selling dolls to pay for those coming in, you find yourself losing money as you have to sell two or three dolls to pay for the new one.

Add to that how quickly the lines are being released and it takes my breath away. The Heirloom Collection of the NuFace line went on sale before the last doll of The Reckless Collection arrived!

Within the last few weeks, 7 dolls have shown up on my doorstep! I haven't even deboxed one because I feel so overwhelmed (Not to mention that Fresh and Delightful, Total Betty, and Mad Love are still in their boxes as well.) Let's take a look!

Let's do FR2 first, starting with Fresh and Delightful Veronique Perrin. This doll was the last doll from the "Delicate Bloom" collection of 2016. It was originally stated that this doll would use the "water glide decals" for her eyes. I believe the actual production doll did not. She was produced to order on the W Club and many members were reluctant to take a chance on her. I'm glad that I did. (Hopefully, I will be able to do more complete reviews of these dolls soon ...)

This doll combines the forward glancing eyes of Breaking The Mold with Sweet Smell of Success and Breathless. Surprisingly, I think she may be my very favorite version mold 2.0.

I ordered all three of the W Club upgrade dolls to get the diorama free. Here is Riviera Drama Agnes Von Weiss. Agnes Von Weiss is typically produced in the Japan skin tone. There are variations, such as Firefly, but IT has been having trouble with their Japan skin tone being too gray. The last couple versions, including Riviera Drama, have shown up in cream skin tone.

Again, I see elements combined from past versions. Although not quite as dramatic as High Gloss or as polished as Silver Zinger or Intimate Reveal, Riviera Drama can fill that void for collectors who do not own the other versions. I actually like the green eyes!

Next, let's look at the NuFace line. Here's Total Betty Ayumi.

She is probably my favorite doll from the Reckless Collection. This is the first time we've seen the new Ayumi mold in this skin tone. The face up is amazing. She is often compared to model Chrissy Teigen.

Next up is Mad Love Rayna.

I own every version of Rayna. Many collectors were not happy with the extreme side glance, but it is a very different version of this mold.

The last doll in this series just arrived. Although I wasn't lucky enough to win Trouble Eden in the W Club lottery, I was fortunate enough to get her nude at a reasonable price. (Personally, I prefer this doll to Style Mantra, the other red haired version. I think it is primarily due to the fact that I am not a fan of the layered cut on SM.)

The twins are always popular. Using the W Club purchase opportunity for Smoke & Mirrors Lilith was a no brainer. I believe most collectors agree that she is the preferred twin this time around.

I am surprised that I am alright with the mulberry lipstick, but it works great with the silver hair. I even like the smoky gray "leather" more than the black version.

Next, is the second doll from the W Club upgrade. The NuFace upgrade was Majesty Giselle.

For some reason, I'm not terribly impressed with this version; I'm not sure why. I have seen some gorgeous photos of this doll redressed. She may be one of those dolls that need to be released and played with a bit to "come to life".

Now, it's "Poppy Time"! After such an impressive year in 2016, I didn't think IT could keep the momentum. The last doll of the 2016 collection arrived a few weeks ago; First Taste of Champagne was a W Club Exclusive.

I was reluctant to purchase this doll, but I was afraid I was missing something from the promotional photos. This doll reminds me of a "formal" version of Traveling Incognito which is one of my favorite dolls.

Next up is the W Club Poppy upgrade doll, Popster.

I really do adore this one. She's so cute. She sort of reminds me of the earlier Misaki dolls. I really like a doll that requires minimal hair care! There is a lot of play value here.

And the last Poppy to arrive here is Welcome to Misty Hollows. She is another W Club Exclusive.

This doll just pushes all the right buttons for me. I can't say enough about how much I love everything about her. There is so much expression in the screening. It's obvious that Poppy plans to keep the center stage again this year.

I've not been very lucky with W Club lotteries over the past few years. For some reason the IFDC dolls were not very popular with collectors this year. Even though a "few were reserved" for the W Club, it seemed like there was a large number of winners for each doll.

The only doll from the IFDC collection that I was interested in adding to my collection was Feeling Wild Giselle.

Feeling Wild is like a supercharged version of Giselle. She's so mature and regal. I LOVE this doll. She may be the first to be released from her box.

That's 10 dolls still in their boxes that have arrived since this spring. Seven of them are exclusives from the W Club and Feeling Wild was W Club Lottery win of an IFDC doll.

Why do I feel so overwhelmed? How about the fact that I have 2 Poppy Parker, 6 FR2, and 2 NuFace on pre-order with my dealer? And the convention collection hasn't even been released!

I must give credit to IT though. Many of the production and quality control problems of the last couple years seem to have gotten under control. The screenings are better, hairstyles nicer, eyelashes better placed, and clothing better constructed. Obviously they are back on track ... but I am left feeling like a "runaway train"!

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Feeling Wild Giselle Diefendorf

August 20, 2017, 8:52 am

≫ Next: Coquette Jordan Duvall

≪ Previous: Dolls, Dolls, Dolls

After I completed my last blog entry, I told myself that I may feel less overwhelmed if I started deboxing.

The doll that I have been most excited about is Feeling Wild Giselle Diefendorf. She was one of three 2017 IFDC dolls from the Dollton Abbey Collection. I feel I need to mention that I am a huge Downton Abbey fan and never missed an episode.

Here are the promotional photos (all are property of Integrity Toys and are being used for informational purposes only).

First we have Never Predictable Adaline King (mold 2.0). She is obviously representing Lady Mary.

Next up is Touch of Whimsy Finley Prince. I immediately got the connection to Cousin Rose.

And last is Feeling Wild Giselle Diefendorf taking on Lady Edith.

I thought I was "safe" from the temptation of purchasing any of these dolls ... until IRL photos started showing up. All of them are quite lovely! I like Never Predictable a great deal but I am not a fan of the eye screening with the lower lashes, nor do I care for the sheerness of the gown. Although I love the boots and jacket from Touch of Whimsy, I don't like the hair at all. I'm not sure how Feeling Wild changed so much from promotional doll to production doll, but all I have to say is, "Lady Edith would've been the star of the show had she looked like this!"

Here is Feeling Wild in the box.

And a closeup.

Here are the accessories. I can't say how much I adore the little bee hair pin. It is so on point for Victorian/Edwardian jewelry! The jewelry has small sapphire stones that contrast with the plum color of the gown nicely.

I don't care for the netting - it only messes up the hair as far as I'm concerned. The hose are beautifully designed with a seam and "peep toes". They are plum colored like the dress!

Here she is out of the box.

I had a friend ask me how I keep my collection in such good shape, so I am going to show you what I do as I dress and prepare a doll.

First, I never throw anything away, especially those clear rubber bands that often come with play line dolls. It is too easy to destroy a doll's hair when redressing her. If I plan on leaving the doll's hair alone and it is wavy, I take a couple of these rubber bands and put them on at the waves. you see them from behind, but they "fit inside" the wave from the front. Here is a photo from behind.

This helps keep the hair from being pulled out of its style. (You don't want to use the smaller bands because they will pull the hair too tight.)

Personally, I am a big fan of how the newer bodies come apart. I pull the legs off to put the shoes on!
I use magnifying glasses and tweezers. (When I put gloves on my dolls, I actually use spare sets of hands I have here and leave the gloves in the hands for storage!) With the removable legs, you could actually switch off the whole leg with a doll of the same skin tone! The pedicure wouldn't match, but who cares - you wouldn't have to worry about destroying the shoes.

Just throw a lampshade on and it comes from Italy - Fra-gi-le! (BTW ... the straps on these shoes are short - there isn't a lot left over when putting them.)

I use a corsage pin to pierce the earring holes. It opens the hole and makes it easier for the post to slide in. It has saved me quite a bit of frustration and broken jewelry. I try to be very careful with my dolls because the money I spend on them is a lot out of my budget.

It takes me a long time to remove a doll from her box and dress her properly. But the result is always worth it. Here she is ... Feeling Wild is feeling pretty regal if you ask me!

I know this doll is going to redress beautifully, but I think I am going to enjoy her in stock for a little while.

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Coquette Jordan Duvall

September 9, 2017, 8:48 am

≫ Next: eenie meenie miney mo ...

≪ Previous: Feeling Wild Giselle Diefendorf

Apparently, dolls have not stopped coming to my front door. It's obvious I better try deboxing immediately.

The only doll convention I've ever attended was The Tropicalia Convention of 2012. I believe there are only four dolls from Tropicalia that remain residents in my collection. In my opinion, the latest Integrity Toys (IT) release, Coquette Jordan Duvall, is an example of what the dolls of that convention should've looked like but, unfortunately, did not.

Here is Coquette Jordan in the box.

And a closeup.

Here are the accessories.

The shoes are quite well made; the ties are like real ties and not cheap ribbon. The ring is exactly like the jewelry used for Haute Societe Veronique. The purse also reminds me of Haute Societe. Here is a link Haute Societe Accessories. It does deserve its own photo.

Here is a full length photo of Coquette out of the box. I really like the ensemble. It feels like the quality we've come to expect from Integrity Toys and has been missing until recently.

The only thing I'm not "feeling" is her hair. I swept it all to the side for now. My doll's eyes do not seem to have as much white under the iris as some I've seen in photos.

It's been a while since we've seen Jordan Duvall. She shares her sculpt with Tatyana 1.0 and Lana Turner 1.0. Personally, I like this version quite a bit yet still prefer Platinum and Splendid.

I believe this is the very first time we've seen the upgraded body in the original A-Tone skin tone (I believe it is sometimes referred to as A-Tone 2). It will be a great match for Splendid Jordan and My Desire Isha/Luchia 1.0. It's a close match for Entice Kesenia and Buxom Veronique. Although not a close match, some collectors are satisfied with using it with Second Skin Vanessa. After seeing it in person and comparing it to other dolls in my collection, I actually decided to order a second as a body donor.

So Mood Changers Red Head Poppy Parker screams, "No harm: No foul!" and runs off with Coquette's pants!

We prefer things a little more casual around here anyway. Here is Coquette Jordan wearing Old Is New's jacket and a pair of jeans.

There is something about this doll's hair that is bothering me. I think her faceup is so strong, that the hair needs to be pulled away from it. I tried putting it in a ponytail and slipped her into Anja's In Sequins dress. I think I am getting somewhere with this character now.

She's a little more "polished" feeling. I'm beginning to find her inner diva.

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eenie meenie miney mo ...

September 23, 2017, 8:56 am

≫ Next: Majesty Giselle Diefendorf

≪ Previous: Coquette Jordan Duvall

I should stay off flickr. It's just a simple fact, but I'm addicted to seeing the photos taken by other doll collectors.

I really like Coquette Jordan Duvall. Thanks to friends on flickr I discovered that her body was the same skin tone as earlier Jordan versions Splendid and Trust Your Instincts and three of the 2015 ITBE Basic Lingerie Dolls, Buxom Veronique, Entice Kesenia, and My Desire Isha. Many of these reside here and have never been removed from their boxes.

Usually I am a purist with most of my doll collection. I am not one of those collectors who jumps from one body type to another. Although I have changed almost all of my shorter dolls to the taller bodies, I don't mind the more womanly figure of the earlier body, so I've not moved those dolls to the FR2 body. Of course there are a couple exceptions.

So, I surprised myself when I broke down and bought multiple nude Coquette Jordan dolls for body switching. I know that each Integrity doll is completed by hand, so there have always been subtle differences in each doll. Here are my four girls redressed.

The first doll is my original and the one from the previous post and review. Even though the fourth doll seems to have the best hair, she became the first body donor.

Next, was the difficult choice of which doll would get the new body. I don't have a version of the Kesenia character on a FR2 body, so I decided to finally release her from her box.

She was so appreciative.

So ... which Coquette is my favorite?

I think this example had the best eye placement and screening (there is less white under her irises). Her hair seems rooted well.

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Majesty Giselle Diefendorf

October 8, 2017, 1:35 pm

≫ Next: Vivacite Eugenia Frost

≪ Previous: eenie meenie miney mo ...

I have been a member of Integrity Toys' W Club since it began in 2006. It's hard to believe it is already 11 years old! I enjoy the perks afforded by the membership such as upgrade dolls.

When the 2017 upgrade Nuface doll, Majesty Giselle, arrived, I took a couple quick photos of her in her box and then shoved her in the closet with the other dolls waiting to be released.

Recently during a discussion, some doll friends were talking about which dolls that had arrived in 2017 were their favorite. Majesty's name came up more than once. I decided that maybe I had missed something here when I opted to take out Feeling Wild first.

And here is a closeup.

Here are the accessories.

Here they are out of box.

The purse is a large bead and is quite heavy. The little boots are somewhat vintage looking. I love the bracelet/ring piece of jewelry!

So this is how she looks out of box. She's a lovely doll, but her hair seemed heavy with product.

I decided to wash the hair with some shampoo and hot water. For me, it wasn't enough. I decided to take her hair down, boil perm it to straighten, and then give it a little trim to even up the ends.

Anyone named "Majesty" must have a throne, right? But, sadly, it is Autumn and she needs to return to classes to the morning.

It looks like IT has fixed many of their quality control issues of the past few years. The new dolls are feeling very high quality with many lovely accessories. The faces and hair seem to be more consistent and the clothing is very well made. I am looking forward to future releases.

Until then, Majesty Giselle is definitely a doll that demands redress and play time. She is excellent in just about anything she puts on.

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Vivacite Eugenia Frost

October 14, 2017, 11:43 am

≫ Next: Through the Eyes of a Spectator

≪ Previous: Majesty Giselle Diefendorf

My followers know that there are four molds that I have a difficult time resisting: Agnes Von Weiss, Eugenia Frost, Vanessa Perrin 1.0, and Adele Makeda 2.0. I was so excited when Integrity Toys (IT) revealed their 2017 mainline collection "La Femme". Vivacite Eugenia was a "no-brainer" for me.

And a close up in the box.

The accessories in this line are very reminiscent of older IT releases.

The shoes are excellent, the purse is just amazing, and the jewelry quite impressive (yes, that is a watch you are seeing!).

The hair is rooted nice and thick! It needs to be washed to get out the product that makes it feel heavy and greasy. The cotton blouse has a very long tie in the back. I crossed it and brought it to the front like a belt. The capri pants are nice. Everything is very well made.

I love the screening on this doll. I also like the Hungarian skin tone that was used. She is easily one of the best versions of Eugenia Frost in a few years.

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Through the Eyes of a Spectator

October 22, 2017, 6:55 am

≫ Next: 2017 Fairytale Convention Collection

≪ Previous: Vivacite Eugenia Frost

I wasn't sure about the "Fairytale" theme of the 2017 Integrity Convention. After all, those among us who have been collecting for any length of time have seen this one done to death - just about every doll designer has produced one version or more.

The Style Lab opened early Friday morning. Integrity Toys (IT) opted this year to return to the old way of letting collectors in according to their place when they line up in the morning. (In the past couple years, collectors were assigned a random "cue number" that decided when they got to enter the lab.)

The Style Lab has gone through several changes over the years. It originally supported the "Dynamite Girls" line, moved to "Color Infusion" in 2012, and has now progressed to "The Industry". Collectors purchase nude dolls and can choose among different ensembles sold a la carte. The theme this year was an amalgamation of the movie cult class "Clueless" with the Lewis Carroll fairytales Alice's Adventures in Wonderland and Through the Looking Glass. I can think of nothing more original than pairing these two storylines.

All photos are the property of Integrity Toys and are provided for informational purposes only.

First up, we have Alice. This is Tulabelle True wearing "I'm Curious".

Merging the Lewis Carroll storyline with Clueless was definitely a challenge for creating the Alice character. Although I love the modern interpretation (and the doll's face-up is gorgeous), there is really nothing here that says "Alice in Wonderland" to me; it is very dark and sinister which may support the story more than the Alice character herself. I think the ensemble is extremely well made and I wouldn't mind having it in my collection; however, Alice is always portrayed as very innocent, wearing multiple layers of petticoats and an apron. I guess IT was trying to be careful to stay away their earlier interpretation with 2010's IFDC Convention Companion Doll, "Curiouser and Curiouser Alice" worn by Dynamite Girl Gavin.

We also got Tulabelle True in African American skin tone wearing "Who Are You" as the caterpillar.

My favorite nude doll of the collection. but the ensemble is just way over the top. This concept is quite fascinating.

Next up is Binx Barone as the Queen of Hearts. The ensemble is called "Heartache".

She is wearing what looks like a sandwich board fuzzy heart which is actually a faux fur coat. I appreciate the broken heart bustier and wouldn't mind having this piece in my dolls' closet. The pants are very similar to a DG pair used in the Style Lab several years ago. Although very modern and edgy, I'm not a fan of this interpretation of The Queen of Hearts. However, I LOVE the Tatyana "Checkmate" version from 2010.

Liu Liu Lang showed up as the Rabbit, wearing "Just A Second".

I do love the mask!! Again, I think it is unfortunate IT has already produced a better version of this character with "Red Rabbit Misaki" from 2008. (Liu Liu does remind me of Quicksilver Kyori Sato, who is one of my very favorite IT dolls.)

Something that was very exciting for collectors was that Poppy Parker made an appearance in the Style Lab this year. Her first character is The White Queen wearing "Your Move".

This is obviously the character "Sher". I always considered the 2008 Misaki Pure Evil IT's interpretation of the The White Queen (since she came with "Red Rabbit") and think the Misaki version is superior.

The second character portrayed by Poppy was one of the Tweedle Twins (not sure which is which and am not sure how I feel about them being fraternal). She is wearing "Clueless".

I really like both the doll and the ensemble. From the collection, this is my favorite combination.

The other Tweedle Twin seems to be an homme character, Milo Montez, wearing "Dim the Lights."

The same fabrics are used and both have the black striped accessories. I think the twins are the best of the concepts here and I am sorely tempted to add them to my collection wearing these exact ensembles! The designers really got this set right!

The last three characters were also male dolls. Going left to right, we have Tate Tanaka as the Mad Hatter wearing "Completely Mad", Cabot Clark as the Knave of Hearts wearing "Lover Boy", and Daley Daniels as the Cheshire Cat wearing "Not All There".

There were also two accessory packs. One for the ladies called "Eat Me" and one for the gents called "Totally Bonkers."

I really appreciate the fact that designers were being mindful to stay away from "costumes". I like the fabrics chosen and the design ideas a great deal. It was weird combining the themes, but I guess it's like the characters from Clueless decided to put on a play of Lewis Carroll's books but read the Cliff Notes version and decided to use clothing from their closets??

As a collector, had I been attending, I wouldn't have been disappointed in the least. The entire collection is quite cohesive and well made. The screenings are great and the there are many mix and match possibilities with clothing. Had I been there, I would've unfortunately been pulled into collecting The Industry line.

It has been reported that The Industry clothing can be shared with the NuFace dolls to a point; however, the shoes will not fit. Personally, I don't have any Industry dolls or clothing. I no longer collect hommes, so that temptation no longer exists. Although I really like both Poppy Parker versions, I passed at this time. Fortunately, I was able to walk away from this performance financially unscathed.

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2017 Fairytale Convention Collection

October 22, 2017, 9:35 am

≫ Next: 2017 Fairytale Convention - Event Dolls

≪ Previous: Through the Eyes of a Spectator

The "Convention Collection" is the group of dolls attendees can purchase prior to convention. IT announcees the list of dolls (without photos) and they can be purchased as a bundle and either picked up at the convention or shipped directly to the attendees home after the convention is over. Even though there are merits to doing this, the collector is actually purchasing dolls sight-unseen.

In 2015, W Club members got the opportunity to direct purchase a doll from the convention collection from a sketch, Reigning Grace Eugenia. Attendees got a discounted price, but every W Club member got the right to buy her. It was a big hit with W Club members, and we were excited to get that opportunity again in 2017.

This year's Direct Purchase Fairytale Convention doll was based on Cruella Deville's character from 101 Dalmatians. (Not an actual fairytale character but one from a Disney film based on a 1956 novel by Dodie Smith.) The doll was Tatyana Alexandrova and the version was a gifts called "Fashionably Ruthless" ($175 or $200 at Convention). The actual production doll could be picked up by the convention attendees since they paid a discounted price for her as an upgrade to their convention package. (W Club members will be billed balances next week and the doll will be shipped directly to them).

I am so glad I had the foresight to purchase this doll. I think she is going to be a big hit with collectors. Fortunately, I have Bloodlines Tatyana from the 2013 IFDC Convention to go with her!

Other dolls in the Convention Collection included Veronique Perrin (mold 2.0) wearing "Sea Devil" representing Ursula from "The Little Mermaid" ($150).

I'm on the fence with this doll. I was expecting blacks and purples or maybe shades of ocean blue. The platinum hair was a surprise as well. I'm just not sure about adding her to my collection. I think the doll will redress well, but I've seen a lack of consistency with the hairstyle. I don't think I would purchase one unless it was an actual photo of the doll and the hair was exactly the way I wanted it.

You simply cannot have a Fairytale theme without The Wizard of Oz. It just can't be done. The designers, fortunately, looked to the musical Wicked for inspiration. First up is Natalia Fatale (mold 2.0) as the Wicked Witch of the West, Elphaba, wearing "Wicked Behavior" ($140).

I really want to love this doll - the Natalia 2.0 mold is a favorite of mine, but I'm totally on the fence. I love the dress! The doll reminds me of 2009's Heat Seeker, but I like Heat Seeker's screening a lot better. I think this doll will redress beautifully though.

You can't have the Wicked Witch without her sister, Good Witch of the North, Glenda. Vanessa Perrin (mold 1.0) wearing "Spell of Kindness" ($150).

Again, I'm not feeling this one even though Vanessa mold 1.0 is one of my very favorite molds. I already have the silkstone dress that is similar and the Poppy Parker "Miss Amour" from last year. The screening is a lot like 2007 Vanessa Perrin"In Bloom". The doll is gorgeous, but when you've been collecting a while it seems to be getting harder and harder to add dolls with a "special quality" to your collection.

That gives us four Fashion Royalty characters in the main Convention Collection. It was a sure bet that Poppy Parker was going to show up as Dorothy ($135). She is wearing "Rainbow Connection" (try getting Kermit out of your head all day!)

I so long for a little dog with this! It's super cute. I even like the looser curls. This is very cute and accurate interpretation with some mix and match possibilities. (The purse reminds me of Vivacite Eugenia's)

The other Poppy Parker in the Convention Collection represented Rapunzel and she is wearing "Shining the Starlight" ($135).

I Love that Poppy Parker is in a different skin tone! Love the hair (it's a long braid almost down to the floor). Hate the ensemble! I wouldn't mind picking this one up nude on secondary market, but I don't think it will happen because I sense she will quickly become very popular and difficult to get.

The NuFace line was well-represented in the Convention Collection this year. First up is Ayumi Nakamura as Mulan wearing "Rarest of All" ($140).

This is quite an extraordinary doll. I really like her, but I am passing since I already have an oriental Ayumi in my collection. The ensemble, faceup, hair, and fascinator are all amazing. I love the eyebrows! It was a difficult pass.

The next doll was the first to sell out in the salesroom. Eden Blair (I'm not sure why it is Eden since Lilith is usually the dark-haired version) appears as Pocahontas wearing "Changing Winds" ($140).

The twins are always a fan favorite. As much as I want to love this version, I'm not feeling it for some reason. I really like the hair a great deal. The faceup isn't bad. The ensemble is ok (I am old enough to remember chenille bedspreads!). The accessories are fantastic. I think I passed because she reminds me a great deal of 2012's Fame by Frame Imogen which is a favorite of mine and already lives here.

Each doll in the Convention Collection had an edition size of 600. As lovely as they were, I didn't dip my toe in the secondary market pool for any of them. I feel comfortable waiting to see if the prices come down or if there are any left for W Club lotteries.

In addition to the Convention Collection, there are "salesroom" dolls offered to collectors with purchase tickets randomly put in their convention packets. This year there were three.

The first was a tremendous surprise. This is the first time the IT Nippon line has been made available at a convention. (It is only the second time Nippon has been sold domestically - the first being a Haute Doll Magazine exclusive in 2006 "Metallic Moment".) This was a giftset of Miaki and Amelie called "Drawn to You". It had an edition size of 500 and retailed for $175.

They represent Mickey and Minnie Mouse! What a wonderful giftset. Amelie's hair even has two buns to look like mouse ears! I love this. I have been a fan of Misaki since the very beginning and own many of them. As cute as they are, they were, with regrets, a pass for me. My dolly budget is very tight lately.

Poppy Parker made another appearance in the salesroom. This time she is Tinkerbell wearing "Believe in Me" ($135).

As cute as this one is, the dress reminded me of Lash Out's from a couple years ago.

The final advertised doll in the salesroom was Erin Salston as Rumpelstiltskin wearing "24K" ($140).

Holy Brothers Grimm Batman ... stop the Batmobile ... I cannot put into words how I feel about this doll. She is amazing and was the second doll to sell out in the salesroom. I have to give a shout out to Leandro Romero on this one. I was able to get one from him at a very reasonable and fair price. Thank you! You have no idea how happy you made this old schoolmarm.

In addition to the advertised dolls there were five color infusion dolls that had never been previously released sold in the salesroom. Three of them were male and two were female. IT did not release photos of them.

Love the direction IT went with this theme. There is a little something for everyone. I think all of the dolls will redress beautifully. Faces and hair look better than they have in many years. It looks like quality control is back!

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2017 Fairytale Convention - Event Dolls

October 22, 2017, 1:52 pm

≫ Next: Oh no! Not A Tulabelle!

≪ Previous: 2017 Fairytale Convention Collection

Attending an Integrity Toys Convention is not for the faint of heart. Collecting these dolls is not a cheap hobby. I know many individuals choose to eat in rather than dine out, buy less expensive items rather than name brand, and try their best to stretch their dollars as far as possible to be able to afford their collections. But, oh the joy of a new Integrity Toys doll!

The registration fee for the IT Convention is $550. That fee includes one lunch and two dinners, the Convention doll at the banquet, any gifts at the Welcome Dinner, and any gifts from the "Poppy Parker" luncheon. Sometimes there is welcome doll. There was also an upgrade cocktail party $85 and a W Club Luncheon option for an addition $130.

When guests arrived they received the box for their "Build-A-Doll" giftset. This is always a favorite of collectors. At different events you get different parts of the giftset! At the Welcome Dinner attendees received the doll, Sweet Dreams Nadja Rhymes, wearing a blue dress. At the Poppy Parker luncheon on Friday, the sleeping head and lingerie were received, and the final pink ensemble was given out at the Banquet. She represents Sleeping Beauty

I have the Vanity & Glamour Nadja ordered from the mainline collection. She, too, is blonde. I would be very tempted by this doll had I not already paid for the mainline version. I think she is lovely and one of the best welcome dolls produced (next to Glamour to Go Agnes).

The theme of the Welcome Party was Snow White. All convention attendees received Fairest of All Poppy Parker as Snow White. It seems there were 600 attendees this year and that is the edition size of each gift doll.

Oh ... this is everything Snow White should be. Look at that pale complexion. Look at that raven hair. Look at those red lips. Wonderful. I am as tempted by this doll as Snow White was tempted by the apple! I wish I had more money.

Since we have Snow White, we need the Evil Queen. At every meal there is a centerpiece doll. It is produced in limited number and each person is assigned a number at their table when they sit down. Numbers are drawn for each meal and the corresponding attendee gets the opportunity to purchase the doll (almost always $150). One number is identified as the individual who can purchase the actual centerpiece and then additional numbers may purchase a doll NRFB. This year the table centerpieces were limited to 420 dolls.

Ladies and gentlemen, I give you Agnes Von Weiss as "The Queen of Everything".

And yes, she is! I can just hear the name Agnes Von Weiss and I start salivating like Pavlov's dog. It's embarrassing. I was a goner the minute I saw the first photo on flickr. Shamelessly, I watched until one was offered at a decent price and grabbed it up. I can't wait to get this doll. She is perfection in my eyes.

Following the Welcome Dinner there was an upgrade Cocktail Party. It cost $85. The dolls were from the East 59th Street Collection that debuted earlier this year. The doll received was Constance Madssen representing Lady Tremaine, the wicked stepmother from Cinderella, wearing "Wicked Glamour" (edition size of only 200).

Although I like both the doll and the ensemble, the doll looks a great deal like Luxurious Leisure and dress reminds me of 2013 Victoire Roux's "Story of My Life". I have to admit I do prefer "Wicked Glamour" though.

Cinderella was not available, but Evelyn Weaverton will be Cinderella wearing "Midnight Glimmer".

I was so excited to learn that this will be offered through the W Club. Convention attendees will get a discount at purchase, but all W Club members get the opportunity to purchase her. Another great reward for joining the W Club!

The next day is typically the "Poppy Parker Luncheon". It is included in the registration price. I was wondering how they were going to get around the fact that most fairytales have an element of evil and there is just no way to make Poppy Parker evil! The solution was simple. The centerpiece doll was Poppy Parker as Little Red Riding Hood wearing "Through the Woods" (edition size 420, cost $150).

As much as I can appreciate this interpretation, it can't hold a candle to IT's 2008 Yuri as Little Red Riding Hood. It is a lovely alternative to that version which is extremely rare.

So, who's the big bad wolf? Eugenia Perrin Frost shows up in "Bite Out of Life". Each attendee received her as free gift.

I love me some Eugenia. I have owned every version of her. I'm not sure about this one. I like my Eugenia fierce, not evil.

On Friday Night they have a big sales bazaar, so there are no convention items that night.

The next day is the optional luncheon for W Club members only. It costs $130 to attend, but each member gets a doll. The theme was NuFace and the dolls were from Aladdin. I squealed when I saw my first photo of the table centerpiece, Rayna Ahmadi as Jasmine in "Natural Wonder". Edition size 420, cost $150.

There was simply no resisting this doll. I hated paying secondary market price on this doll, but I know she will not go down in price. She is just amazing.

I held my breath. Aladdin was portrayed by Giselle Diefendorf wearing "Wanderlust".

That's an interesting twist. I really like this version of Giselle, but I have too many of this mold already. Unfortunately, she reminds me of a young Cher. I may have to chase her down when I get my bank account built back up a little.

There's always time for a last minute visit to the salesroom and room sales to spend any last bit of cash before the Farewell Banquet!

As guests entered the banquet hall, who should be waiting for them but Adele Makeda (mold 2.0 - my favorite!) as the Ice Queen dressed in "Frosted Glamour".

Gasp! That dress is perfection! The hair! I totally get the whole concept, but they should have left it at that point. I do not like the frosted lips or frosted eye makeup. She's too shiny. I'm not sure how she will redress. I am going to have to wait and see IRL photos of this doll redressed and in collectors' hands.

And the moment everyone has been waiting for. By this time, everyone has figured out it must be Elyse Jolie or Kyori Sato since they were the only dolls in the "core group" who has not made an appearance. Since we have Sleeping Beauty in Nadja Rhymes, it's only fitting the missing Evil Queen, Maleficent, be the last to show up. (Maybe she wasn't invited.) Here we have Elyse Jolie wearing "Malefique".

As much as I can get on board with this whole look, I do not like the purple hair at all. I already own Midnight Star who is similar. I also own Dark Romance Giselle's gown which she can wear. I can almost create this look without having to pay secondary market price. She is a very beautiful doll; I just don't need to pay secondary market prices to add her to my collection. Sigh of relief.

As a recap:

Hommes: 4 from the Industry + 3 Color Infusion from the salesroom = 7
Color Infusion Females: 2 in the salesroom
The Industry Females: 4
Poppy Parker: 2 Convention Collection, 1 Salesroom, 1 Centerpiece, 1 Gift, + 2 Style Lab = 7
NuFace: 2 Convention Collection, 1 Salesroom, 2 gifts, + 1 Centerpiece = 6
Misaki: 2 doll giftset in salesroom
East 59th: 2 dolls
FR2: 4 Convention Collection, 2 Gifts, + 2 Centerpieces = 8

Grand total: 38 dolls

I think this deluge of dolls is one of the things that may be burning out collectors. I have already received 22 dolls this year and have six on order. That's added to all the dolls I've purchased and held onto in the past 10 years. I can't believe I only added 3 from the convention, but I have so many why do I feel like I need more? I need counseling.

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Oh no! Not A Tulabelle!

October 28, 2017, 10:04 am

≫ Next: Sister Moguls - Agnes and Giselle

≪ Previous: 2017 Fairytale Convention - Event Dolls

One of my "Guidelines for Collecting" is that I not add any more lines to what I am collecting. I have been very careful to stay away from "The Industry" line for fear of having to buy separate clothing for those dolls.

When I reviewed the Style Lab from the Integrity Toys Fairytale Convention, I wrote that my favorite doll from this line was the AA Tulabelle. Leandro offered this doll for sell, and when I inquired about her, he said he could ship her for free inside Erin's box. I caved ...

The good news is that The Industry body can wear a great deal of the clothing I already have here. That is very exciting! The better Mattel and Silkstone clothing fits, as does some of the Dynamite Girl, NuFace, and Poppy Parker clothing.

Here is AA Tulabelle wearing the Hudson Bay Barbie ensemble with the little dog!

And here is a closeup.

I REALLY LOVE this doll's faceup and hair. This doll is gorgeous in person and she is still selling on secondary market at prices the fraction of the other Fairytale dolls. I believe she is going to be the "sleeper hit" of this year's collection.

Girls around here tend to get casual quickly. She looks very nice in this older FR sweater.

I can't wait for more photo opportunities with her!

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Sister Moguls - Agnes and Giselle

November 5, 2017, 3:51 pm

≫ Next: The Tale of Rumpelstiltskin ...

≪ Previous: Oh no! Not A Tulabelle!

I have gotten very behind with deboxing dolls this year. Apparently, my rules have all been thrown out the window. I've been blaming too many things: my accident in December, my damaged knee, the cancer diagnosis of my little dog and the subsequent loss. It's time to get back on track.

The very first doll(s) to arrive this year were the Sister Moguls giftset. This giftset was a W Club Exclusive from 2016. All W Club members were able to purchase this set, and it was produced based on the preorder - edition size 1250. Cost $200.

This is a full length photo in the box.

The dolls are actually quite similar. They were originally supposed to have two different skin tones, but a decision was made during production to give them the same Japan skin tone.

Here is a closeup of Agnes Von Weiss.

I love her screening. Her eyes are gorgeous.

And here is Giselle Diefendorf.

Another beautiful face.

Here are the accessories.

(Sorry about the fuzzy photo on the right.) There are two pair of earrings, four rings, two magnetic pins, a veil, an extra set of hands for each doll, a set of photos and pencil for autographing them, and a pair of shoes for each doll.

Here is a photo of the dolls out of box.

My only concerns (and they are minor) are that the dress is a little short in the front and the sleeves aren't long enough. When sewing stretchable lace, the seamstress needs to allow for the fabric drawing up. I really like the black "leather" pants and Giselle's top.

Another closeup of Agnes. She is truly drool-worthy.

And her sister, Giselle.

I wanted to see how Giselle would look redressed. I have her wearing In Rouge from the 2015 Integrity Convention.

I couldn't stop photographing this girl.

She is wonderful.

I hate that it took 11 months to open this giftset. I could've been redressing these girls all year!

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The Tale of Rumpelstiltskin ...

November 11, 2017, 10:01 am

≫ Next: 2017 - The Year of Gigi

≪ Previous: Sister Moguls - Agnes and Giselle

Once upon a time there was doll who almost didn't make it to the Integrity Toys (IT) Convention. The doll's designer, Jessy Ayala, had created a hair design so intricate that it took production workers more than two hours to recreate it. Similar to the real story of Rumpelstiltskin, one individual stepped up who could obviously turn straw into gold in about an hour, thus saving the day.

Most of my followers know that I usually like to open dolls with a "countdown"; starting with my least favorite and building dramatically to my most favorite. This isn't the case for the IT Fairytale Convention. On the first day of the convention, all of the convention collection and salesroom dolls were announced. There was one standout from the entire collection in my eyes, 24K Erin Salston. I immediately purchased this doll at a very good price from a convention attendee.

Here she is in her box.

Many believe that 24K Erin Salston represents Rumpelstiltskin, but I think she is the miller's daughter from the fairytale. Here is a closeup.

In the fairytale, a miller boasts to the king that his daughter can spin straw into gold. This relates to the fact that the daughter has beautiful blonde hair that looks like gold when it catches the sunlight. The king locks the daughter in a dungeon room filled with straw and threatens to cut off her head if she doesn't turn the straw into gold. She is rescued by an imp who trades his talent for her necklace. The next night, the king locks the daughter into an even bigger room filled with even more straw. This time the imp trades his skill for the daughter's ring.

Here are the accessories. It appears the designer knows the story well as the jewelry consists of a necklace and a ring.

The ring is a little big on her finger, so another collector shared a trick for keeping rings on fingers. You take a small clear rubber band (often used in packaging dolls and accessories) and slip knot it through the ring shank. Then you take the other end and bring it around the hand tab before putting the hand back into the arm. By putting the rubber band on the palm side, it doesn't show in most photos. Neat trick, huh?

The third night, the king promises to marry the daughter if she can repeat this feat a final time. Having no jewelry to trade with the imp, she makes a deal to give him her first born child.

Here is a photo of the dressed doll standing next to the coat.

After the king marries the daughter they eventually have a child. When the imp appears to take the child, the girl doesn't want to give her up and is so overwrought with sorrow that the imp feels sorry for her. He gives her the chance to keep the child if the queen can say his name out loud. She has three days and three tries each day.

There are different versions of the story here ... some versions have the queen sending someone out to try and discover the imp's name, another version has the queen sneaking out of the castle at night and finding the imp celebrating before a bonfire. He is so joyous that he will be getting the child that he inadvertently mentions his own name.

If the designer was using the version of the fairytale where the queen sneaks out, that would explain the coat and boots, as well as the stars and moons on the bodysuit. This ensemble would represent what the queen wears when she sneaks out of the castle at night to find the imp. This coat is a true miniature piece of fashion art.

When the imp arrives the next night to claim the baby, the queen says his name "Rumpelstiltskin". The imp gets very angry, stomps his foot so hard that it sinks into earth, and pulls himself into pieces trying to get his foot unstuck. (In some versions, he flies out of the castle window.)

The body suit 24K Erin Salston wears is just amazing. The pants are a velvet like texture. This doll, from head to toe is just perfection. The modern interpretation of Rumpelstiltskin is spot on.

Way to go Integrity Toys! One of the best Fairytale dolls I've ever seen in my life and a must have for an IT collector. Her price has been rising consistently; I believe we have a true grail on our hands.

The only thing I would've liked to see would've been some sort of fur head covering. But that would've hidden the detail of the hairstyle, so I understand the choice to not include one.

Whether Rumpelstiltskin or the miller's daughter, 24K Erin Salston was definitely the golden doll of the entire collection in my opinion.

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2017 - The Year of Gigi

November 25, 2017, 9:03 am

≫ Next: Welcome to Misty Hollows Poppy Parker

≪ Previous: The Tale of Rumpelstiltskin ...

I've been collecting Integrity dolls for over a decade now, but I still find myself making mistakes in choosing which dolls to add to my collection.

When the 2016 NuFace Collection, Reckless, was advertised I decided to skip AKA Gigi Giselle Diefendorf. I already owned Glam Addict from 2012 which is one of my favorite versions of this mold. I reasoned that Glam Addict was so much like AKA Gigi that I didn't need both.

Months went by and I had put AKA Gigi completely out of my mind. Then, this spring, IRL photos started being posted. I kept telling myself that I didn't care for the ensemble. When another collector posted photos of the braids in her hair, I did a double take. Of course, by that time, there were none left at retail and the secondary market prices were just too high.

In October, a retailer listed one for sale at almost $50 more than the original price. It has become a disturbing practice that many dealers are beginning to mark up dolls above the suggested retail price. I've even read where dealers are canceling orders on collectors and then are found selling dolls on e-bay. I'm not sure how to think about this practice. I wonder why IT isn't monitoring this practice, but, then again, there is one seller on e-bay who has been doing this for years.

Here is a photo of AKA Gigi full length in her box.

IT should be giving a nice Christmas bonus to Jessy Ayala. He really has brought the Nuface line to the front of collections. Unfortunately, there was a "film" of glue over my doll's right eye. This is exasperating since I paid more than retail from a dealer.

I always hate finding a problem with a new doll. It means I have to contact Customer Service, warm up a heating pad and remove the head, mail the head to Canada, and wait months for a replacement from China. It sucks the joy right out of buying a new doll. I decided to go online and look for another (with the intention of selling the replacement when it arrives).

Someone was selling one nude for a reasonable price which had a perfect screening. As a collector, I have actually paid more on secondary market for a doll with perfect screening - since IT dolls are finished by hand there are many opportunities for mistakes and many differences can be found within one version of a doll. Here are the accessories:

Just look at all these accessories: extra set of hands, beret, cute little quilted purse, two rings, fresh interpretation of earrings, necklace, socks, and yellow spike heels. That's a lot of loot!

I had to undress the original doll to put the ensemble on my replacement. (You will immediately see the difference in the screening - I LOVE the one I purchased nude online. Her screening is perfect!) The green blouse is actually a bodysuit!

Here is a full length version of AKA Gigi dressed in stock.

And a closeup.

The "proof in the pudding" for any doll is how it looks redressed.

... Apparently, I totally missed the mark by passing up AKA Gigi Giselle Diefendorf. This doll has one of the most beautiful faces ever created for this mold. I love the hair with the two little braids. I actually prefer her over Glam Addict.

This year there have been five Giselle versions produced by IT (two of which were advertised in 2016). I have already reviewed Majesty, Feeling Wild, and Sister Moguls. The fifth was the Convention doll, Wanderlust. Each of these versions is very beautiful in its own right, but I believe AKA Gigi is extraordinary!

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Welcome to Misty Hollows Poppy Parker

December 10, 2017, 9:28 am

≫ Next: You Won't Believe This ...

≪ Previous: 2017 - The Year of Gigi

I guess its the wrong holiday to be opening this doll, but I'm not waiting until Halloween 2018.

When you join the W Club, one of the perks is IT Direct Dolls that are offered exclusively to W Club members. One of those dolls in 2017 was Welcome to Misty Hollow Poppy Parker. After a Poppy Parker overload in 2016, I have had to be very selective in adding this mold to my collection, but I simply couldn't resist this girl.

The packaging for the "Swinging London Collection" is very cute. The box actually looks like an old London phone booth.

Here is what Poppy Looks like with the lid off the box. Notice that the accessory drawer was moved to the top of the box (probably so Poppy could look out the windows of the phone booth).

The textured hose are adorable. The dress is black velvet material with a little lace ascot. The bow is actually pinned into her scalp, so you don't take a chance of ruining the hairstyle removing it.

Here is a closeup. I am not usually a fan of the upper painted lashes or gray irises, but this doll captured my heart immediately.

Here are the accessories.

The pin is magnetic. The shoes are really cute and unlike anything we've seen for Poppy. The ring is quite substantial and looks great on! The little candle and holder are a cool accessory. (Be careful, the first time it hit the floor, it broke and had to be reglued!)

She is very cute out of the box. She easily stands on her on in these shoes. (My only complaint with this collection is the revised PP doll stands. They are painted like the British flag. As a collection, I like all my doll stands to match when I display the dolls. Otherwise your attention is drawn to the doll stands instead of the doll. I know that is an odd observation, but I tend to be OCD about things like this.)

And another closeup.

As with all dolls, they tend to get redressed. Since I am trying to participate in a flickr group doll advent calendar, I wanted to dress her for Christmas. I was excited to see how nice she looked!

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You Won't Believe This ...

December 30, 2017, 10:22 am

≫ Next: Well, Hello Mattel!

≪ Previous: Welcome to Misty Hollows Poppy Parker

It isn't often that I share something in my blogs that I find online, but I couldn't resist this.

I follow a couple hundred collectors on flickr and love looking at how they redress and style their dolls. Sometimes collectors share ideas, and I was blown away when Deb Buckner posted what she had created with the boxes from the Fairytale Convention.

Here is the photo (used with Deb's permission) ...

And here is the link to the actual photo Deb Buckner's Creative Diorama Idea. I bet you are as impressed as I am.

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Well, Hello Mattel!

December 31, 2017, 7:28 am

≫ Next: Well, Hello Mattel Part Deux

≪ Previous: You Won't Believe This ...

As a collector who redresses my dolls, I get very excited when I find an inexpensive way to add to my dolls' closets. Since Integrity Toys doesn't release clothing packs and Mattel has turned to throwing glitter on everything, I've had to use on-line clothiers such as Clear Lan to stock my dolls' wardrobes.

I got downright giddy recently when Mattel released its newest clothing pieces. It appears Barbie has just returned with a vengeance! Here is one of the $5.00 complete ensembles. (I don't know what the names of these individual paks are, so please excuse the absence.)

There is a knit crop top and matching skirt. There are some very cool sunglasses but no shoes. Here is what it looks like on the older NuFace body compliments of a frankendolly.

It looks like she is coming back from holiday in a warmer climate!

In addition to the regular Mattel Barbie line, Mattel has joined forces with Hello Kitty again. Here is one of the dresses ...

And another Frankendolly. This time I took a Fashionista from a Model Muse body and put her on a Mattel articulated body.

Aren't those sunglasses just the most! And I love the clear plastic purse, even if you can't open it! Again, another $5.00 ensemble.

Even more impressive than the complete ensembles, there are the little individual paks which sell for $2.44. I have tried these on different body types to show fit.

First up is a pink Hello Kitty top with a newer Barbie knit skirt.

And here is Wild Think Poppy Parker from 2014. (I added the running pants, Doc Martins, and skull cap to make the ensemble a little more street edgy.) What do you think?

Let's see if we have anything that will fit the NuFace 2 dolls? What about this red Hello Kitty blouse and a knit Mattel skirt?

Just add a belt and voila! The model is Be Daring Imogen from 2016.

In addition, I got extravagant and spent $8 on a Mattel mix n match set.

I purchased this for the rose t-shirt (oh yeah! we'll get some mileage out of this one!) and the red skirt. The big surprise was how much I liked the plaid dress once it was on a doll. Here is The Industry's Liu Liu modeling it.

It fits very well and looks super cute on. I may add some tights and boots.

At this point, I realized I had tried items on almost all body types. I wondered if my FR2 women could get away with one of these looks. I wanted to try that red pleather skirt on someone, so I reached for Coquette Jordan Duval. I decided to add a "Hello Kitty" blouse. It is urban and different.

This is only a sampling of what is currently being offered in the Barbie aisle at the local Walmart. I assume these items will sell out quickly because they are so appealing. I know scalpers are already trying to profit from their sale on e-bay. If you find any of these interesting, you may want to check it out the next time you're near Wally World.

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Well, Hello Mattel Part Deux

January 2, 2018, 6:42 am

≫ Next: Best of 2017 - Number 10

≪ Previous: Well, Hello Mattel!

I had a follower who was concerned about how the new Mattel ensembles looked from behind. That follower is correct that many of the recent ensembles are printed on the front only and look horrible from behind.

It seems Mattel realized this problem and tried to correct it with the newer lines. Here are my models from behind (the red Hello Kitty dress isn't pictured because I couldn't get them all in one frame; however, that dress is printed on the back as well).

This is just a "down and dirty" photo. The pink skirt is the only one where the fabric on the back is a little different, but the colors are so close, it's not that noticeable. I don't usually photograph my dolls from behind, but side shots can also be disrupted when there is an obvious difference in the print.

I hope this helps!

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Best of 2017 - Number 10

January 2, 2018, 7:44 pm

≫ Next: Best of 2017 - Number 9

≪ Previous: Well, Hello Mattel Part Deux

I truly struggled with putting together my Top 10 Countdown for 2017. This will be the 8th anniversary for my listing of favorite dolls, and there has never been so many beautiful examples from which to choose.

One of the reasons I had trouble with this year's countdown is that I was trying to be objective and choose dolls that were popular with collectors. Unfortunately, I was finding that other collectors' favorites were not my choices. I guess dolls around here pretty much fall into four categories:

Debox immediately and let the redressing begin!
Debox but display the doll in stock because she's just too beautiful to redress right now.
Can't make up my mind, so shove her in the closet.
Off to another collector who appreciates her more.

I decided to stop looking at other collectors' lists and think about the dolls that brought joy to me this year. I hope, if you are reading this, you keep in mind these choices are personal to me for various reasons and may not reflect what is popular in the collecting community.

... so let's get on with it. The first doll in my countdown came to my collection in June. I have been a supporter of the Victoire Roux line since its debut in 2011. Unfortunately designers changed the facial screening in 2013, and the line lost its attraction to many collectors. Integrity Toys (IT) tried to correct this in 2014 but failed to recapture the momentum of the original line. Victoire Roux went on sabbatical until Chris Stoekel joined the IT design team and launched the East 59th in 2017. The two new characters, Constance Madssen and Evelyn Weaverton, were supposed to be friends of Victoire. The style was vintage, classic, and glamorous! The bodies were compatible to the original Victoire body.

Here is the link to my original review of Luxurious Leisure Constance Madssen Review of Luxurious Leisure. Although I wasn't head-over-heels in love with the face screening, the ensemble was amazing, as were the accessories. The packaging was unique and exciting. The best thing about the East 59th dolls is that she can wear just about everything from the early years of Fashion Royalty. (The fact that my FR2 dolls cannot wear much of my accumulated doll closet has been a annoyance since their release.)

Here she is modeling Hot Topic from 2005. I love this brocade coat. The details (like the brown "suede" piping) are so fabulous! Even the sleeves are just the right length! (The shoes are snug, but with a little effort can stay on her feet.)

Because this doll brought back my joy of playing with the early FR fashions and returned classic glamour to my collection, Number 10 of 2017 is Luxurious Leisure Constance Madssen.

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Best of 2017 - Number 9

January 3, 2018, 12:13 pm

≫ Next: Best of 2017 - Number 8

≪ Previous: Best of 2017 - Number 10

The next doll in my countdown hasn't made an appearance since 2012, but she was in the Number 1 slot that year! It seemed that Jessy Ayala took it personally that Giselle Diefendorf has been missing from my Top 10 Countdown for the last four years and made it his mission to make sure she got listed this year, giving collectors five versions of this mold in a 12 month timespan!

Although previewed as a member of 2016 Reckless NuFace line, AKA Gigi did not make it into the hands of collectors until 2017. Unfortunately, I totally missed the mark on this doll and, due to secondary market prices, didn't add her to my collection until November. I reviewed her on November 25, 2017 - here is the link Review of AKA Gigi Giselle Diefendorf.

There has been some problems with "shiny face" on some of the production dolls, but neither of my dolls had this flaw. I love the way this doll photographs. Her stare is intense.

Because she brought me joy in remembering that I can be flawed in my initial decisions about a doll purchase, here is Number 9 of 2017, AKA Gigi Giselle Diefendorf.

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