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Passion Week Elyse Jolie - #13 of 2018

October 6, 2018, 10:01 am
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I can be very skeptical when it comes to interpretations of designer dolls.  There are just so many factors that can go wrong - cut, fabric weight, pattern size, etc.   When the W Club design challenge winner was announced I was so excited because it was the design for which I voted.   When it came time to purchase, I was worried that the factory would never be able to get all those little details correct.

After almost two weeks delay (due to customs), Passion Week Elyse Jolie arrived today.
And here is a closeup in the box.
I literally was flipping out!  This is one of the best, head-to-toe, doll productions ever.   Love the eye colors and the deep crimson lips.  Love the pale complexion and hair color choice.   Love the slight side glancing gray eyes.   Adore the pale blonde eyebrows.

The little tan cropped bomber jacket with gold buttons is amazingly detailed in construction.  The wide gold belt with padlock detail is well made.   I am a huge fan of IT knitwear, so the mock turtleneck is wonderful to own.

I can't get over the rivets and ribbon threading in those pants.  AND they are done perfectly!!

I believe I set a new record in deboxing this doll.   I couldn't release her fast enough!   I dressed her so quickly I didn't even take time to photograph the accessories separately!!!  (There are chopsticks for the hair, a magnetic rhinestone pin for the jacket, a super cute modern over-sized handbag with tassels, NEW earring design, red gloved hands and glove sleeves, and a serpent bracelet!

I've never been a fan of neoprene fabric (I think that's what is used in the pants, boots, and gloves) because it can break down over time.  NOTE:  If you take this ensemble off and store it, DO NOT put it in a plastic baggy.  Apparently when neoprene comes in contact with plastic it reacts negatively.
My only criticism would be the boots - they are similar to those that came with the mini dresses at the Supermodel Convention.  Be patient and carefully work them onto the feet!  The good news is that she can stand on her wearing these boots!

Her hair is styled in a long ponytail with two black holders (one at the top and one about halfway down.)  This doll is amazing!  I think she will be a future grail and I wish I had gotten another.  She is definitely doppelgänger worthy!
I usually like to remove the original ensemble and try something else on the doll to see how she redresses, but I love this so much!!  Redress pictures will have to come later.  I truly want to savor this ensemble and doll.
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Walking On Gold Adele Makeda - #14 of 2018

November 11, 2018, 5:36 pm
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Unfortunately it's not easy for teachers to take several days off from work to attend a doll convention.   I do, however, love watching from the sidelines.

When Integrity Toys (IT) released the theme for the 2018 convention, I felt badly that I couldn't attend.   The theme was "Luxe Life".  My mind reeled as I made the connection to the 2009 Iconic Convention Vanessa Perrin by the same name.   The dolls from the Iconic convention all represent grails.  I imagined luxury fabrics, jewels, furs, evening gowns, etc.

Jason Wu announced at the convention that he used 1980's Christian Lacroix for his inspiration.  Having lived in the 1980's "luxe" is not the word that comes to mind.   Yes, we had Dynasty, big shoulder pads, and animal prints.  But we also had parachute pants, over-sized denim jackets, and aerobic/workout clothes.

Even though there was a lot about the dolls of this convention that I couldn't appreciate, there were elements that I really liked.

The centerpiece doll for the Welcome Dinner was Walking on Gold Adele Makeda.  This version has the 2.0 mold, which is one of my very favorites.  Here is a full length photo in the box.
And a closeup.

She is wearing a gold long sleeve textured blouse with peplum.  There is a plum colored velvet bubble skirt.  Thigh high gold boots with plum colored laces finish the look.
The jewelry is gorgeous!  I really do like this doll's faceup.  The hair is simple, but the hairline is rooted beautifully.   Her skin tone is the new "sun kissed" color.  
This doll's ensemble was based on a 1988 Christian Lacroix design.  I really prefer the original version to the production doll.  
Although I prefer the original design, the gold blouse has potential when paired with other items.  The white skirt is from the 2006 convention and the black velvet pants belonged to 24k Erin.
I stole the idea of pairing Walking On Gold Adele Makeda with Love of Luxe Veronique's pink dress.  I added the Fame & Fortune Vanessa Perrin's jewelry.
I am in love with how Walking On Gold looks.  I think she is just about perfect.  I believe Walking on Gold Adele Makeda will be in my collection for a very long time! The hair is simple but very easy to maintain.  It is clean and soft.  The lips are a beautiful color.  The eye screening is awesome.  In my opinion, Walking On Gold was one of the best dolls from the Luxe Life Convention.  I don't understand why she isn't more popular and demanding a higher price.   I was fortunate enough to get her at almost her original retail cost.


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Luxuriously Gifted Natalia Fatale - #15 of 2018

November 25, 2018, 12:50 pm
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Natalia Fatale is one of my very favorite molds created by Integrity Toys.  Unfortunately, she rarely gets "preferential treatment" by the designers.  Sadly, this continued to be the trend with Luxe Life.  

When I first saw Luxuriously Gifted as the attendee gift doll for the opening dinner at the Luxe Life convention, I immediately connect her with Echelon Monogram from 2012.  
Fortunately, I've been lurking the boards trying to get this ensemble for a reasonable price and always come up empty-handed.  Although this version of Natalia Fatale seemed a "throw back" to other IT dolls:  most notably from the 2011 Convention - "Air Apparent Veronique,""Forever Veronique," and "Evermore Vanessa," I wanted that ensemble badly.  I was surprised that attendees had trouble selling this doll and collectors have given her such a poor response.  It worked out well for me as I was able to purchase her NRFB shipped for a little over $100.
When she arrived, I quickly opened her expecting a doll I would probably undress and sell nude.  I didn't expect to be so smitten.
The doll comes with minimum accessories.  A pair of cute earrings, another set of hands with "acrylic nails," and a pair of shoes.
The gold stands are cute!  .. BUT that bow just had to go.  For me personally, it ruined the whole presentation.
This is quite a cute doll!  Now, let's see that amazing bodysuit. 
WOWZA!  That is one well made little bodysuit!  I love it.  It will get A LOT of playtime around here!
Since this was Natalia, I had to get out the monogrammed dressing robe from Shapeshifter.
Okay!   She is really smoking HOT in black!

How about dressing her up a little.  The long mermaid skirt is from the "Black as Night" giftset circa 2006.  The fur belonged to 2005's "A Fashionable Life" Vanessa.  
What do you think?

After I got her redressed, it finally hit which other doll(s) Luxuriously Gifted reminded me of - and they are grails.  She is combination of two dolls.  The first was a table centerpiece from the 2006 IT Convention - a platinum version of Lights, Camera, Royal Veronique (edition size 150).  This photo was taken from the Fashion Royalty Website http://woodsky.lbx.free.fr/listeFR.php stating "courtesy of Amanda".
And the second is from a doll I owned but sold her last year to someone who had bought other dolls from me. 
Her father had passed away and she needed some retail therapy and wanted Optic Clash Dania.  I didn't mind selling Optic Clash, but I've always missed her and can never afford to replace her.  
I know it's not a perfect match, but I think she'll serve the purpose.  Platinum blonde hair, hot pink lips, blue eyes, pink eyeshadow.  It definitely gave me a new perspective and appreciation of Luxuriously Gifted Natalia Fatale.
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Love of Luxe Veronique Perrin - #16 of 2018

December 1, 2018, 2:51 pm
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I resisted this doll.  I really tried.   I had purchased her ensemble separately for Walking On Gold Adele Makeda, so I wouldn't be tempted by the doll herself.   Unfortunately, the more photos that are showing up post-convention, the more I had to have her.

This year's Welcome Gift Doll was Love of Luxe Veronique Perrin.   She has red hair (which is a shade that is difficult to catch in photos - it often photographs brighter than it actually is in person).  The hair is a high ponytail which was one of the hair themes this year.  It is straight and easy to maintain - you have no idea my fear of flyaway curly hair!

Love of Luxe shares the same screening with many other Veronique versions.  The first time this screening showed up was Sweet Smell of Success for 2012 and the convention Veroniques that year, Haute Societe and Workshop.  It turned up again in 2013 at the convention with Breathless and at the 2015 convention with Stage Presence.  This year we saw it again in the spring with Fetish Fatale.  Although it is a favorite among collectors, I think it needs to be retired for a  period of time.

Here is Love of Luxe Veronique Perrin in the box.
And a closeup.  I finally found a version with a hairline I could live with.  Most versions of this doll have truly messed up hairlines.  I think this issue needs to be addressed by IT.
She came with black shoes that tie up her ankles (not sure why because it totally ruins the look of the dress).   She is wearing cute pink lace panties (one of my favorite things about the ensemble).  The jewelry is a simple bracelet and flower shaped dangle earrings with a "green" stone in the middle.  It isn't a cohesive look, but I like the pieces separate for other uses.
As has been the case with most of the dolls from the Luxe Life Convention, they look much better redressed.  (I will probably be selling the extra ensemble on e-bay.)   It is cold and rainy here, so Vero had to put on a sweater.

She's a very cute doll and I think she will redress quite well.   I like the pale skin tone with the coppery red hair.  (When she is in the pink the dress, the camera wants to make her hair brighter red.) I thought the doll I was purchasing had a better hairline.  This one isn't horrible, but I it could be better.  She is easy to pick up around the $125 mark.   The ensemble and body are worth that.




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Merry Christmas 2018

December 9, 2018, 9:19 am
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Each year I try my best to post a digital holiday card for those friends who share their joy of collecting dolls.  May you each be richly blessed this season and find peace and happiness.   Hopefully there will be something special under your tree that will bring a smile and many, many hours of creative play.  I appreciate each and every one of you!


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... Before the Countdown Begins

December 27, 2018, 5:45 am
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This has been the strangest collecting year for me.   I decided that I simply would no longer allow myself to be stressed out by my hobby.   I did some very serious re-evaluation and came to some startling discoveries.

1.  I realized I had been "cheating" on my guidelines.  I had so many dolls coming into my home in previous years that I wasn't listing them all.  I rationalized this by telling myself, "If they may not stay, I shouldn't add them to the list." As long as they were NRFB, in the closet, and in the "consideration" stage, they were in Limbo Land.  This freed me to buy as many dolls as I wanted without any accountability.  Good for me, right?

2.  But bad for my bank account.   After remarrying, my husband and I focused on getting out of debt as part of plan for upcoming retirement.  We got very serious and cut out many luxuries from our lives.  We both actually paid off all of our credit cards!  Somehow over the past three years, I had gotten myself back into credit card debt to the tune of several thousand dollars.  ACK!  I decided to sell a lot of dolls that weren't being enjoyed.  By July, I had paid off my credit card and haven't carried a balance since.  

3.  This made me make some major collecting decisions.

  • I would not purchase dolls unless I had the money at the end of the month to pay for them.
  • I had to sell dolls in order to buy dolls.  
  • Any new doll had to be more desirable than the ones that I was selling.
  • I would not pay high secondary market prices for any retail doll.  CAP:  $50 over original cost.
  • I would never pay more than $325 for any doll.
     This put some serious restrictions on purchases.  This is one of the reasons that several dolls released in 2018 will not appear in my countdown.  
  • Jason Wu Special Release Elyse dolls are not included in my countdown because they cost too much on secondary market. 
  • The same is true for Summer of Love,  Peace of My Heart, and Miss Behave Style Lab versions of Poppy Parker. 
  • Affluent Demeanor Agnes Von Weiss will not appear in my countdown because I prefer Queen of Everything which is currently in my collection.
  • Public Adoration Eden Blair does not appear because her secondary market price is out of reach.  I'm also not sure about the texture of pink hair.  It usually feels coarser than other hair.
EDIT:  One of my Christmas gifts was an empty box with an "I.O.U." in it from my husband.  He explained that he had purchased me something that didn't get delivered before the holiday.  It arrived this week and was Public Adoration Eden Blair, so she may appear in my list after all.
  • Optic Illusion Giselle Diefendorf is not on my list because I'm still waiting on an e-bay coupon and didn't have the cash to pay for her this month.
Do I regret my decisions?  Not at all.  For once in a very long time, I am beginning to feel more in control of my hobby.  I am less stressed and happier with my choices.  All of the dolls I added to my collection this year were purchased at original cost (or less than $50 over retail).  Using e-bay coupons, I was even able to add a couple dolls to my collection that I had missed over the years.  I have managed to actually put some money in my savings account.  I was able to be more generous this Christmas with family and friends.  It feels good!




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Best of 2018 - The Industry - A Year in Review

December 29, 2018, 3:05 pm
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I am doing my countdown a little differently this year.   Since there are so many different Integrity Toys (IT) lines that have somehow managed to suck me in, I am going to do the lines separately.  Trying to combine the lines into one countdown of 10 was just too confusing and exhausting!

The Industry is IT's newest line of dolls.  A little history ... 

The Dynamite Girls line was a staple of IT Conventions (2007-2014) and even introduced the Style Lab "Build a-Doll" concept in 2011.  You could buy a nude doll and dress it from options available only in the Style Lab.  It was a very popular concept.   In 2012, IT replaced the DG Style Lab with a new line called Color Infusion (CI).   The CI dolls were noticeably larger, especially their hands and feet.  Many collectors were hesitant to get onboard, although some purchased dolls and rebodied them (me included).  CI only served as the Style Lab line for four years (2012 - 2016).

Many collectors missed the Dynamite Girls and the Color Infusion line wasn't selling as well as expected, so IT decided to start a doll line in 2016, The Industry, with a similar size body to the final version of the DG dolls.  There were only two dolls in the original line using the same new mold, character Tulabelle.  It got a lukewarm reception.  

In 2017 IT added two new female characters to the line (Binx and Liu Liu) and included four males (Tate, Cabot, Milo, and Daley).  The 2017 Style Lab even included the Poppy Parker mold on The Industry bodies (no ankle joint!).  Saying the 2017 Style Lab was a sensation would be an understatement.  

In 2018, IT introduced three new female characters (Janay, Alysa, and Jade) and a new male character (Bellamy).   IT started moving characters from other lines into The Industry fold!
Everyone was very eager to see what the 2018 "Luxe Life" Convention would have in store for the Style Lab line.  Although there were photos, the actual dolls did not make it to the convention - apparently they were delayed in customs.  (I think this must have been horrible for convention attendees.  Many collectors opt to purchase the convention line ahead of time and have it shipped to their home following convention, using the Style Labdolls and clothing for redress and play at the convention.  This year that didn't happen, and it ruined a lot of the creative fun of combining dolls/ensembles and sharing photos with the general public.  Not to mention there is usually a whole block of time set aside to spend browsing and shopping in the Style Lab.)

There were six nude girl dolls that could be purchased - Janay, Alysa, and Jade (molds already introduced earlier in the year) and five new characters - Gavin, Rufus, Lark, Ellery and Hollis.  Also included were two nude male dolls - Bellamy and Milo.   Each doll was paired with individual ensembles that had to purchased separately.  The whole concept was very "street smart".   

I actually purchased four of these ensembles (photos property of Integrity Toys):

1.  Cherry Bomb Fashion - So many individual items that will mix n match wonderfully.  Imagine the top with the silver pants below! or the shorts with the denim boots! (The doll is Lark Lawrence.)
2.  My favorite ensemble, Punk Rock being worn by Rufus Blue.
3.  I had to own those denim distressed boots!  This is Not Your Puppet with Janay.
4.  I really wanted the sweater from the next ensemble, but I found the dress to be quite nice.  This is Glitterati worn by Ellery Eames.
The remaining six dolls are below:
I also purchased both accessory sets.  The first is called Skirt The Issues.
The second one is Top This.
For me personally, this could've been the best part of the whole convention.  Too bad, customs wouldn't release the items.

There is currently a conspiracy theory that IT withheld the Style Lab on purpose.  Collectors could order the entire Style Lab line in advance.  This would guarantee them a special Poppy Parker, released for the first time in a cream skin tone.  It turns out this Poppy Parker, aptly named Miss Behave, was deconstructed and each body part and ensemble piece was included in a different package from the Style Lab!  You had to purchase the entire line to complete the Poppy and ensemble.
This is one of the most desirable dolls of 2018!  She is selling on secondary market for over $500.  Some collectors have mused that, had the Style Lab been present for purchase, buyers would've quickly figured out which item had the Poppy head and focused on that one item.  For me, I think the individual ensembles are pretty amazing and would've sold out regardless!

The collection sold very well.  In fact, it is now completely sold out.  There were only 400 in the edition size.  I was able to snag the top with attached train at a great price.  I decided to try and recreate the look as best as I could on my own.  This is one of my favorite dolls from last year, Poetic Beauty Lilith wearing my recreation.
Jewelry from 2016 Fabulous Fields Luchia
Gloves from 2018 Fame & Fortune Vanessa
Pants from 2012 Rock Me Baby Rayna Ahmadi
Shoes from 2016 AKA Gigi Giselle
Black hat 2010 Monogram Escapade

So, which doll from 2018 is my personal favorite?  That was an easy choice for me.  

Best The Industry doll for 2018 is Hollis Hughes.
I love the skin tone combined with this hair and face up.  My dolls were told they had to dress appropriately for their "Best of" photos this year.
Here she is wearing the Mattel Audrey Hepburn Silkstone Givenchy Sabrina gown.
Hollis Hughes looks great in so many different ensembles!  She definitely deserves the title "Best The Industry Doll of 2018" and Number 17 of 2018 in my collection!

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Best of 2018 - East 59th Street/Victoire Roux - A Year in Review

December 30, 2018, 9:27 am
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I have been a tremendous fan of the Victoire Roux line since its introduction in 2011.  I LOVE the vintage clothing styles.  I love the body and how it can wear Vintage Barbie and the oldest Integrity Toys (IT) ensembles, even the pants.  Here is Avenue George V wearing the Mattel Christian Dior Walking Suit.
And here is Faubourg St. Honore wearing Vintage Barbie Saturday Matinee.
St.  Tropez is wearing the IT Lustrous Silhouette gown from 2005.   The length still works!
I actually own eleven versions of Victoire Roux and have the newest on pre-order.   She is due to arrive in early 2019.  I was very excited that she was returning after a four year hiatus.

NOTE: From this point on, I only include photos of dolls that either joined my collection in 2018 or were actually shipped to consumers in 2018.

Convention attendees were able to purchase a version this year, Divine Evening. (Photo property of Integrity Toys)
There have been so many beautiful dolls this year, Divine Evening was not a "must have" for me.

While Victoire was "getting work done", IT introduced a supporting line called East 59th Street in 2017 which gave us two additional characters to the Victoire line, Constance Madssen and Evelyn Weaverton.  I purchased one of each that year and was very pleased with my choices.  I reviewed this line; here is the link East 59th Street 2017

In 2018, I played "catch up" and purchased Wicked Glamour Constance Madssen from the 2017 Fairytale Convention.
I just couldn't live without that gorgeous purple cocktail dress and she was selling very reasonably on secondary market (and still is if you can catch one!).  Additionally, I needed her to go with Midnight Glimmer Evelyn Weaverton which W Club members were allowed to purchase following the 2017 Fairytale Convention.  She didn't arrive until 2018.
In 2018, The Cocktails Collection was released and introduced us to a male character named Laird Drake wearing Cocktails for Men.  (Photo by Integrity Toys)
Another female character was introduced later in the year named Aurelia Gray, the first black character in the Victoire Roux/East 59th Street line.  She will not be shipped until 2019.  The other dolls from the The Cocktail Collection that I did not purchase were Mai Tai Sizzle Constance Madssen.  (Photo by Integrity Toys).  She also came a cute yellow shorts/jacket combination.
And Turquoise Sparkler Evelyn Weaverton.
For some reason, I think of Evelyn Weaverton and Constance Madssen as twinsies.  They always show up in pairs in my collection!  The two I ordered from this collection were The Americano Evelyn Weaverton.
And Tangier Tangerine Constance Madssen.
The only reason I purchased these two dolls were I took a chance on an eBay seller that was selling them for $80 each, NRFB.  I thought it was gimmick, but they arrived in perfect condition.  Great deal on some beautiful dolls!

... So who is the Best Victoire Roux/East 59th Street of 2018?  I have been completely smitten with Tangier Tangerine Constance Madssen.  Here she redressed with a change in her hair.
And representing Doll #18 of 2018 wearing Mattel's Fabulous Forties ensemble.
Definitely a Best of 2018 doll.  Tangier Tangerine is gorgeous!




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Best of 2018 - Poppy Parker - A Year in Review

December 31, 2018, 10:15 am
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Although I tease that "I Do NOT Collect Poppy Parker", I am actually one of the original collectors from back in 2009.  Summer Magic was my very first Poppy and she still resides in my collection.  It's hard to believe but she is the closest thing to a "mini-me" that has ever been produced in doll form (circa my 30's which was a very long time ago).   

I've owned many of the earlier versions of Poppy, including the elusive Bergdorf Goodman. 
Somehow this Integrity Toys (IT) line is like a revolving door around here.   I had originally hoped Poppy would be a good companion for Misaki, but they just don't work well together for me.   It seems I have extremely specific taste when it comes to our girl Poppy.

Of course there are some staples from the earlier years:  I Love How You Love Me, She's Not There, Hot Dots, To The Fair, and Irresistible in India.  And there's the occasional girl that steals my heart and requires a frankendolly body like Angel In Blue.
But it wasn't until 2016 that David Butry made Poppy Parker a more prominent fixture in my collection.  The Poppy Parker versions that year were AMAZING.  Poppy Parker was actually my #1 of 2016 - here is the post #1 of 2016 - Poppy Parker  Most of these dolls still reside in my collection.  It was official in 2016 that "I AM a Poppy Parker Collector".

Even though I collect Poppy, I rarely buy one on secondary market.  Almost all of my Poppy girls have either been purchased at retail, or close to convention prices.  This year, I found myself turning to secondary market to acquire some special dolls.

I actually sold 18 versions of Poppy that had been languishing in their boxes and finally secured Agent Lotta Danger, a personal favorite.  She is amazing redressed but is the most I've ever spent on a Poppy - $225.
In 2017, I found myself preferring the IT Fairytale Convention Poppy versions to the mainline releases.  Excluding Through the Woods and Believe in Me, Welcome to Misty Hollows is the only 2017 Poppy in my collection.  She was also in my countdown last year Best of 2017- Number 7 - Welcome to Misty Hollows Poppy Parker

I'm not sure about other collectors, but 2017's W Club Exclusive Golden Holiday arriving in April 2018 was a downer for me.  Why offer a holiday doll and send it out in April?  She left almost immediately upon arrival.  Nonetheless, she is a lovely version of Poppy.
The W Club Registration Poppy, Soda Pop Saturday, was also a miss for me.  Although she is a really cute doll, she looked too generic to me.  Photo by Integrity Toys.

In 2018, we saw dolls arrive from The Swinging London Collection (Wave II) that was also announced in 2017.  Photos by Integrity Toys.
I initially passed on all of these, but I realized I made a mistake with one of them.  (And have been sorely tempted by a second, Friday Night Frug.)  Unfortunately, I had to pay secondary market for Hold that Tiger. No regrets!  She is one of the most photographed dolls from my collection this year and was the subject of my 2018 Christmas Card!.  Here is the link to my review Hold That Tiger Poppy Parker Review

The W Club Registration Poppy, Soda Pop Saturday, was also a miss for me.  Although she is a really cute doll, she looked too generic for my tastes.  Photo by Integrity Toys.
It turned out that Poppy was a very busy girl in 2018!  Somehow that little vixen made her way to the Italian Doll Convention in May!  (LE 250 in blonde and an additional 250 in PINK hair!)  Both these versions, referred to as Ciao! Poppy,  have been very sought after and demand more than I am willing to pay on secondary market. (Being a teacher, this was announced at the end of the school year for me and I was just too exhausted to hunt them down!)  Photos by Integrity Toys.

Poppy made her way back to the U.S. just in time to appear at the IFDC in one of the most popular collections ever produced Psyche A Dollic.   Photos by Integrity Toys.
Although I won the lottery right to purchase Free Spirit, I couldn't bond with her and sent her to live with another collector.  My favorite from the collection was Summer of Love, but, once again, I refuse to pay her ridiculous secondary market prices; however,  I was able to acquire Time of the Season with an e-bay 15% off coupon at a price I could handle.  
She is another favorite in my collection and has received a lot of redress.  I reviewed her at Time of the Season Poppy Review

It seemed Ms. Poppy Parker was really on a roll!   The Mainline collection in 2018 was called City Sweetheart.  Photos by Integrity Toys.  
I actually passed on all these dolls.  There were some nice versions of Poppy in this collection, but I was spoiled by the Limited Release versions and was expecting some lovely dolls from the 2018 IT Luxe Life Convention.  Although Co-ed Cutie was a collector's favorite, it seems Peach Parfait is a sleeper hit!

Well, the Luxe Life Convention rolled around and Poppy Parker delivered in a major way.  (While attendees and collectors were complaining about the "lack of luxe", I could almost hear David Butry saying under his breath, "Just you wait, I'll show you luxe!" And "luxe" he showed us!)

The Luxe Life Poppies had metallic boots, metallic gloves, coats, sunglasses, amazing jewelry.  They even had little pieces of metallic luggage!  One version of Poppy even turned up hidden in the Style Lab The Industry packaging!  If a collector purchased the entire Style Lab (that's 10 dolls and 10 ensembles), they would find enough pieces to put together a Poppy Parker in cream skin tone, complete with ensemble!  Photo by Integrity Toys.
This version has been called Miss Behave Poppy and sells on the secondary market at $500 and up!  (I think she should be called "Brilliant Marketing Concept Poppy Parker").  Obviously, Miss Behave does not reside here!  I can't afford her.  

I did manage to get three of the remaining four versions though.  The one that continues to elude me is the Poppy Luncheon centerpiece, Snow Stopper Poppy. She will be mine one day! Photo by Integrity Toys.
I was able to get both Luxe Life Convention Poppies at very decent prices!  The first was Chiller Thriller.  I'm not sure why this doll isn't more popular.  I really like her hair/face up combination.  That silver suitcase is awesome!
The other Convention Poppy was Gold Snap.  She is beginning to gain momentum on e-bay.  I love the ensemble.  I have been pining for 2016's Model Living, and I think this one is similar but has better hair and screening.
The last Convention Poppy was the gift doll at the Poppy luncheon named Lemon Frost.  I am completely confused by why this doll isn't sky rocketing.  I think she is amazing.  She's the darkest skin tone produced in Poppy Parker to date.
So ... who's your favorite?  There are 23 Poppies that were received in 2018 (and a two-doll giftset announced that won't get to collectors until 2019).   I believe this year's collections actually rival that of 2016 (and may even be better!).   If Poppy Parker was the focus of my collecting, I would've had some serious fiscal problems!  One could easily come up with a Top 10 list just with Poppy Parker!  Unfortunately, I don't own the best ones - Miss Behave, Ciao! Pink Hair, Summer of Love, or Peace of My Heart.  

It was a truly difficult decision choosing my favorite.  Hold That Tiger has gotten the most redress and camera time of all the dolls arriving here in 2018.  The accessories, hair, and screening on Gold Snap quickly moved her to the top of the pack!  But the doll that combines these two together was the one who has stolen my heart!

Based on the Poppy Parkers actually residing here, my favorite and #19 of 2018 in my collection would be Lemon Frost Poppy Parker.
Look at those adorable shoes!  Had she come with a yellow purse or piece of luggage, she would've been total perfection!  

This doll is amazing redressed!  Here she is dressed up for "The Best of 2018 - Poppy Parker" Photo.
And since it is December 31, Lemon Frost would like to wish all of my followers and readers of this blog a New Year filled with good health and blessings beyond measure!  Happy New Year 2019!











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Best of 2018 - #10 Faces of Adele

January 1, 2019, 2:35 pm
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There have been a lot of delays with Integrity Toys (IT) production recently.   It seems that many dolls announced in one year aren't shipped to consumers until the subsequent year.   I only include dolls in my countdowns that I have in hand.  In my years of collecting, I've come to realize that a lot can change between promo photos and actual production.  

The first "doll" on my countdown was a W Club Exclusive from 2017 but was received in mid 2018.   It was an extraordinary giftset highlighting the changes in the Adele Makeda character and included each of her three molds versions.  Here is the link to my initial review Faces of Adele Giftset Review

The giftset included a lot of great items for collectors, and a W Club member could order the additional bodies to go with the torsos.  I got so much enjoyment and play with this giftset!  The giftset alone is enough reason to be included in the Top 10 of 2018.  The dress and thigh high boots have been worn by just about every FR2/NuFace2 doll residing here.  The gown is good quality, but I'm not fond of the cut.  The lingerie is pretty is awesome.  The whole concept was "outside the box" and very appreciated by collectors.

Mold 1.0 had flocked hair for the very first time.  She has donned many different wigs around here.  She is the only version of mold 1.0 here and I enjoy redressing her. 
Mold 2.0 looks like Beyonce every time she is produced with golden hair.   How can you resist such a face?
Mold 3.0 was produced with a NuFace2 body and I think it suits her to be a "younger" version of Adele.  
The dolls have incredible faces and each is worthy of sharing the spotlight.  #10 of 2018 is Faces of Adele Giftset.
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Best of 2018 - #9 Fetish Fatale Veronique Perrin

January 2, 2019, 12:07 pm
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I really love it when IT gives us a mini-boudoir capsule.  They did this in 2015 with dolls using the older FR handspeak bodies and I was able to acquire all the lingerie ensembles and most of the dolls. I was so excited when they announced a similar line in 2018.  Two of the five dolls from the collection were available through a W Club lottery.

I was very fortunate to win the opportunity to purchase Fetish Fatale Veronique Perrin in April.  She was immediately released from her box and showcased in a blog post Fetish Fatale Veronique Perrin Review

This doll has been commonly compared to Bettie Page.  Integrity Toys (IT) used the amazing Haute Societe screening.  It is so dramatic with deep red matte lips and black hair.

She's been enjoying her time in my collection and I love redressing her.  #9 of 2018 is Fetish Fatale Veronique Perrin.

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Best of 2018 - #8 Passion Week Elyse Jolie

January 3, 2019, 4:12 am
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There is a reason why collectors join the W Club.  You probably have been keeping up.  Faces of Adele was a W Club Exclusive giftset in 2017.  Fetish Fatale Veronique was a W Club Exclusive through lottery in 2018.  The next doll was also a W Club Exclusive.

Recently, The W Club has been holding a design competition for collectors.  W Club members vote and the doll selected is produced.  In 2017, the winner was Vasilen Milkov.  I can actually say that this was the design for which I voted!

This doll was deboxed the fastest of any doll that has ever arrived at my home.  There was nothing I didn't love about the original design.  My blog review of Passion Week Elyse Jolie can accessed from this link Blog Review Passion Week Elyse Jolie
Passion Week Elyse looks good in everything!  For her Best of 2018 - #8 photo, she decided to go vintage Hollywood and wear the "On Set" ensemble from the 2015 Cinematic Convention.
Even though I was a little disappointed that I wasn't able to acquire any of the Elyse Jason Wu Exclusive Dolls, I am happy that I have this version.  #8 of 2018 - Passion Week Elyse Jolie.


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Best of 2018 - #7 Daydream Dasha D'Amboise

January 4, 2019, 4:06 am
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The next doll was not a W Club Exclusive!  She was actually available through retail sales and was the first to sell out at all dealers almost immediately.  I have not reviewed this doll in my blog yet, so I will do a quick once over.  Dasha D'Amboise is not one of the "Core Dolls" in the Integrity Toys mainline; however, she had such favorable responses during the past couple releases that she's beginning to show up more often.  She has only been in my Top 10 list once before (Diva Dasha in 2016 was #5 Diva Dasha #5 of 2016.)

Here is Daydream Dasha D'Amboise in box.  (The little dog I consider a "stuffed animal" that she sleeps with.)
And a closeup.
These Boudoir dolls are more basic, but Dasha's lingerie is gorgeous.
She is a beautiful redhead!
I thought the lingerie would look great paired with the skirt from the 2006 Sound Advice giftset!  Now, all I need is a jacket.
I liked it so much I decided to pair it with the long skirt from the same giftset.
Daydream Dasha D'Amboise may be number 20 in my collection for last year, but she's Best of 2018 #7.





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Best of 2018 - #6 Metamorphosis Erin Salston

January 5, 2019, 6:52 am
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The next doll was another W Club Exclusive previewed in 2017 but arriving in 2018.   Being a member of the W Club in 2017 was a great thing for collectors.  There were multiple giftsets that year.  Each giftset seemed better than the one previous to it.

This is the second time Erin Salston has appeared in my countdown and the appearances are consecutive.  Last year 24k Erin Salston showed up as #2 of 2017.  Here is the blog entry #2 of 2017 24k Erin Salston and here is my original review of this doll Original Blog Review of 24k Erin Salston.

Integrity Toys (IT) decided to reuse this screening on the 2017 giftset Metamorphosis Erin Ralston.  How many collectors see Kendall Jenner here?
This giftset came with an incredible chiffon gown with blue floral pattern.  The second look definitely pays homage to Kendall Jenner's denim short ensemble from the Cannes Red Carpet.  (The blouse with train that Kendall wore was black).  Here is a closeup in the box:
Another extraordinary giftset and W Club Exclusive.  
The doll is so beautiful with this screening, skin tone, and hairstyle.  #6 of 2018 is Metamorphosis Erin Salston. 



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Best of 2018 - #5 Merveilleuse Agnes Von Weiss

January 6, 2019, 5:43 am
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Agnes Von Weiss is no stranger to my "Best of" countdowns.  As a matter of fact, she has showed up in six of them and has even appeared multiple times in one year.  

Queen of Everything set the bar pretty high in 2017.  She was my #1 doll that joined my collection.  She is still in my top five Agnes versions ever produced.   Such an amazing face.  #1 of 2017 - Merveilleuse Agnes Von Weiss

There were three versions of Agnes available to collectors in 2018.   All three were notable candidates for the honor of the "Best of 2018" list.   The convention version, Affluent Demeanor, is such a beautiful doll and would've joined my group here had she not competed with another brunette doll with a updo - most notably Queen of Everything.  In my personal opinion, there is no contest between these two dolls.  Vamp was another extraordinary version of Agnes, but she is so similar to 2013's Nightfall and 2008's Firefly.  The version that was most special and unique was Merveilleuse. Blog Review of Merveilleuse Agnes Von Weiss 

This is the first short-hair version of Agnes.  She came dressed to look like Carolina Herrera.  She was the third doll to join my collection in 2018 although she was a W Club Event Exclusive from 2017.   She is also my Avatar on the W Club.
She is wearing the AFL Vanessa gown.  She looks good in everything.  I love her eye screening.  She is easily in my top five dolls received in 2018 and definitely fits the bill as Best of 2018- #5.   Merveilleuse Agnes Von Weiss.

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Best of 2018 - #4 Karma Kyori Sato

January 7, 2019, 3:24 am
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This is the very first time Kyori Sato mold 2.0 has appeared in my countdowns (that's been eight years now!).   I have never warmed up to this mold.   

That is until Karma Kyori Sato was released as one of the Sacred Lotus Collection this year.   (Yes, she was actually previewed in 2018, arrived in 2018, and was available to purchase directly from IT dealers!)  Her eyes are a deeper brown color and it is difficult to capture them with a camera.  Had she light blue eyes she would look like Carmen Electra circa Baywatch. 
And a closeup in the box.
The ensemble is not as dramatic as the other dressed dolls in this collection, but it seems to fit her personality.
I decided I wanted to redress her.  I started with the Key Pieces gown.
It looks nice, but it doesn't fit her sensuous nature.
How about Sister Moguls lace gown?  Now that's more like it!


This doll was a totally unexpected surprise for many collectors.  She was the least pre-ordered of all dolls from the Sacred Lotus Collection.  I was able to grab her from a dealer weeks after she started showing up in collectors' pictures.  
Number 21 in my collection in 2018 and Best of 2018 #4 - Karma Kyori Sato. 
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Best of 2018 - #3 Goddess Tatyana Alexandrova

January 8, 2019, 3:05 am
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This is another doll from the Sacred Lotus mainline.   I love it when Integrity Toys (IT) produces something new and exciting.  As a collector who has been purchasing Fashion Royalty dolls for over a decade now, I am thrilled when one comes along that is very different and exciting from other versions.

Goddess Tatyana Alexandrova just pushes all the right buttons.
Look at that hair and face!
This is easily the best version ever of the Tatyana mold.  The red ensemble is gorgeous and very thought through.  The jewelry is amazing!   I am totally on board with this whole doll; she is so ethereal!  


Number 22 to join my collection in 2018 and Best of 2018 #3 - Goddess Tatyana Alexandrova.




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Best of 2018 - #2 Fame & Fortune Vanessa Perrin

January 9, 2019, 3:22 am
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If you think W Club members felt pretty spoiled the last couple years, you wouldn't be mistaken.  When you join the W Club, you get the opportunity to purchase upgrades to your membership.  There is usually one doll from the FR line, one from the NuFace line, and one from the Poppy Parker line.   You can buy one of each for each membership you purchase.  In addition, you are promised five "Club Exclusives".   Plus members get preview events for upcoming retail lines with a special W Club Exclusive doll for each event.   Then there are lottery opportunities to purchase special versions of dolls throughout the year.  It only costs $50 per membership to join, and you get access to a private website where members post news, photos, and share information about collecting.

If you've been following my "Best of 2018" countdown, you've probably realized that five of the first eight dolls have all been W Club Exclusives.  It's worth $50 to avoid secondary market prices on such beautiful collectible dolls!

And if that doesn't convince you, how about the next doll in my count down.  She is another W Club Exclusive from 2017 that didn't arrive until 2018.  (Please remember my countdowns from the past eight years have only included dolls that ship to collectors in the year highlighted since post-promotional changes can happen during production.)  I've actually already written a preview of this giftset as she was the 11th doll to join my collection in 2018 - Fame & Fortune Vanessa Perrin.
Such an extravagant giftset, could easily fill a #1 position.  There was an evening gown, casual ensemble, lingerie, special new gloves, and paired luggage!

Some collectors complained about getting versions of this doll with "wonky eye" or "wonky hairlines".   I was very fortunate to receive a perfect version!  This production uses the mold 1.0 version of this character which is a fan favorite.
She is quite gorgeous and definitely deserving of a position in my Top 10 of 2018.  #2 of 2018 is Fame & Fortune Vanessa Perrin.


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Best of 2018 - #1 - The Twins - Public Adoration Eden and Afterglow Lilith

January 10, 2019, 3:21 am
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It can't be denied that these were the most talked about Integrity Toys (IT) dolls of 2018.  Some collectors didn't like them; a lot of collectors loved them.  There's also no denying they stole the show at the IT Convention Luxe Life.
I was able to acquire Afterglow Lilith almost immediately following release at a very good price.  I had given up hope of ever owning Public Adoration Eden when she arrived as a Christmas present from my dear husband.
Afterglow Lilith was the centerpiece doll at the W Club Luncheon.  W Club members who purchased a ticket to attend the luncheon got the opportunity to purchase Afterglow there.  She is in the new "sun kissed" skin tone and has platinum hair with bleached eyebrows.  It's her gorgeous green eyes though that impress me most.
I can't even imagine the excitement when the slide was shown that Public Adoration Eden was the gift doll to all attendees who paid for the luncheon ticket!  Arguably the best gift doll ever given at a convention (right up there with Big Eyes Poppy Parker).  Public Adoration was an instant grail, being compared by collectors to Going Public Eugenia Frost.  She has the most gorgeous face of any doll produced in 2018.  The use of a blend of pink and platinum hair combined with the sun kissed skin tone propelled her to the top of many a collector's Best of 2018 list.
They are two of my favorite dolls in my collection.  I look forward to redressing, posing, and photographing them often in the years to come!  I think it is phenomenal how Jessy Ayala took one mold and created a set of twins with distinctly different personalities, yet work so well together.  Count me impressed!  Best of 2018 #1 - The Blair Twins: Afterglow Lilith and Public Adoration Eden.

I hope you enjoyed my countdown.  It does reflect my personal taste and what I enjoyed adding to my collection this year.  It was not an easy countdown for me.  

Several dolls are absent from this countdown that could've very easily bumped a doll off.  They are worth noting:  Affluent Demeanor Agnes Von Weiss, Optic Illusion Giselle Diefendorf, Serenity Vanessa Perrin, Seduisante Elyse Jolie, Walking on Gold Adele Makeda, Divinity Isha Kalpana, Vamp Agnes Von Weiss, A Fabulous Life Rayna Ahmadi,  Vanity & Glamour Nadja Rhymes, and Hauntingly Lovely Ayumi Nakamura.  It was a very good year for IT collectors.  


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2019 - Reset Button

January 11, 2019, 6:20 pm
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With the "Top Ten Best of 2019" list behind me, it is time to take a minute and reflect on my collecting.

2018 was a year of refinement.

1.  I have been a collector of Wilde Imagination Ellowyne dolls since the line premiered in 2006.  Several were stuffed away NRFB in a closet.  I found homes for 13 members of my Ellowyne family and purchased two of my favorites that had eluded me.   I decided to keep only one version of each of Ellowyne's female friends - one Lizette (2014 All Natural Spice), one Prudence (2010 Ennui and Me), and one Amber (2011 A Dark & Stormy Night).  Any male dolls left my collection.  Although there are several Ellowyne versions still residing here, I hope to fine tune my collection a little more.

2.  I found homes for all of my Pullip dolls this year except one - that was 6 more dolls out the door.

3.  I donated a few older NRFB Barbie/Bratz dolls to the a message board's birthday celebration.  There are no NRFB Barbie dolls residing here now.  That was the last of my Bratz clan.

4.  I am down to only one antique doll in my collection; hopefully, I will find her a new home in 2019.

5.  The daughter of a fellow teacher at my school is a younger "doll collector" and I introduced her to some of the better dolls.  I have given her a couple to add to her collection.  She is developing into a true collector!

6.  The following changes were made to my Integrity Toys collection as well:

Poppy Parker (18 sold/6 purchased)
Monogram (3 sold/0 purchased)
Victoire/East 59th (1 sold/4 purchased)
Nuface (9 sold/9 purchased)
Dynamite Girl (1 sold/0 purchased)
My Little Pony (1 sold/0 purchased)
Misaki (3 sold/3 purchased)
The Industry (0 sold/1 purchased)
Fashion Royalty (13 sold/20 purchased)

That's 49 sold and 43 purchased.

There is a Tag Game on flickr where you are supposed to create a photo collage of the additions to your collection.  I was little embarrassed when I finished mine.  There were 45 dolls that joined my collection in 2018.  That's almost one per week.  I felt miserable about this.  It doesn't seem like a lot when they are coming in one at a time, but when you put them all together, it really adds up!
10 of these were pre-orders from 2017, eight of them were W Club Exclusives, one came from the IFDC Poppy Collection, and nine were form the Luxe Life Convention. 

But then you have to consider how many dolls left my collection in 2018.  I had 75 dolls find other homes!
My goal of one doll out for every doll in was definitely met in 2018.  That felt good!  A few of my dolls to leave represented some grails that were not getting the display or attention they deserve.  It was hard to let them go, but it felt nice to be able to pass them to other collectors.   

The lists of dolls acquired and sold that runs on the left side of this blog has been reset!  Last year's success is now in the past as I focus on 2019.   I have several dolls pre-ordered that will be delivered this year.  I guess I better get to the doll room and start "weeding the garden".   I hope you have the best of luck in 2019 with your collection.
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