THE FASHION DOLL REVIEW

Spring Kissed in jennygrey

2012-01-30T14:37:00.000-08:00

OK, I am in trouble....

I love Integrity's new FR16 line of dolls. Spring Kissed is just so pretty and her hands and face paint are delicate and soft. She poses well (even without a stand) and the hairstyle will be easy to maintain. I've ordered the entire IDEX line. Sigh...I said I was in trouble. Time to rearrange the doll cabinet and make room for another line of dolls.

Integrity Toys, I would like to know the name of this character. Is she Saskia? Spring Kissed was named for her fashion, but her character was unnamed. The entire IDEX FR16 line of dolls have names. (Saskia, Anais, Elsa, and Freja) Also, could we have a pronounciation guide for these lovely ladies? I think I can handle Elsa, but the other pronounciations are a bit of a mystery.

Spring Kissed has been redressed in a jennygrey fashion and is wearing Horsman's Vita sandals.

JAMIEshow Winter 2012 from Angelic Dreamz

2012-01-28T09:32:00.000-08:00

Angelic Dreamz has revealed five new dressed resin fashion BJDs for their 2012 Winter collection. They are stunning! The dolls are limited to 50 each, retail for $395, and are due to ship at the end of February and the end of March. They are available for pre-order now--with Angelic Dreamz generous payment plans available.

Grace is styling in a fresh winter look with furry high heeled boots, a short skirt, black tee, coat long wool scarf, and matching hat.

Eshe comes dressed in an elegant silk two-piece suit with fur-trimmed jacket, large waist belt, black blouse and fabulous sparkling pumps.

Sun dons a gorgeous silk gown which captures the essence of the Chinese New Year celebration and the year of the dragon. She also wears fabulous yellow geta sandals.

Sasha is dressed in a lovely white silk dress with fringed trim and an asymmetric shape and pleated collar. Her gorgeous Gaga-styled musical note shoes finish her whimsical look.

Last but not least, Angelic Dreamz introduces a new character, Cameron. He is dressed in a winter cap, leather pants with zipper detailing, belt, black boots, black tee, colorful tie, and a black fur vest.

All photos property of Angelic Dreamz.

DOLLS Magazine and The Doll Reader to merge

2012-01-28T09:15:00.000-08:00

According to a DOLLS Magazine email sent this morning, and more information from the DOLLS website:

The two premiere publications covering doll collecting, DOLLS and Doll Reader, will merge into one title in 2012 published under the name DOLLS by Jones Publishing. The deal was announced Jan. 27 at the Debut of Dolls and DOTY Awards Banquet during the IDEX trade show in Orlando, Fla. Jones Publishing also presented its Lifetime Achievement award to Maggie Iacono at the same event.

DOLLS and Doll Reader's sister publications, Teddy Bear Review and Teddy Bear & Friends, will also merge this year. Jones Publishing will retain the title Teddy Bear & Friends but increase the magazine's frequency to TBR's bimonthly schedule.

"By working collaboratively with our industry partners, we know that we can help make the industry stronger," said IDEX Vice President Susan Fitzgerald. "This new merger will allow us to reach more people and, in turn, grow the publications and their content. We believe this will also help to develop and expand IDEX, which remains the leading industry show."

DOLLS Publisher Carie Ferg agreed, saying "Uniting two great, long-standing doll magazines into one dynamic title, as well as partnering with IDEX, presents us with a terrific opportunity to use the combined strengths of Jones Publishing and Madavor Media to grow the industry."

The new DOLLS magazine will be sent to both DOLLS and Doll Reader subscribers beginning with the March 2012 issue, which mails Feb. 2. This issue features a sneak peek at what dollmakers have planned for this year. The new combined magazine will continue to feature fan-favorite columns and features from Doll Reader on a regular basis, including patterns by Marsha Olson and Antique Q&A by Jan Foulke, and well as DOLLS' readers favorites.

The big change will come for Haute Doll, which has appeared for the past year as a special section with a flip cover in Doll Reader. With the merger DOLLS will move from 10 issues to a monthly publishing schedule, with one special-focus issue every quarter appearing as DOLLS Presents: Haute Doll, entirely devoted to high-fashion and ball-jointed dolls. The regular issues of DOLLSwon't neglect popular fashion dolls and BJDs, but the content will remain suitable for all ages, while Haute Doll specials will venture into edgier fashion and ball-jointed doll releases.

Doll Reader subscribers will have the remaining issues of their subscription applied to DOLLS; readers who subscribe to both magazines will have their DOLLS subscription extended by the number of issues remaining on their Doll Reader subscription. An FAQ is posted on the DOLLS website, www.dollsmagazine.com, to answer questions about the merger, and Jones Publishing has issued an invitation to readers to send feedback, suggestions, and additional questions to DOLLS staff. Contact information and links are posted on the DOLLS website under the "Contact Us" link at the top of the home page.

Jones Publishing and DOLLS magazine have committed to have a strong presence at IDEX, which will continue to be owned and managed by Madavor Media. Look for some exciting events sponsored by Jones at the 2013 IDEX show, including the presentation of the 2013 Lifetime Achievement Award!

Poppy Parker Fashion Teen

2012-01-28T09:09:00.000-08:00

One of the biggest surprises was the release of Poppy Parker Fashion Teen, a brand new line for Integrity Toys. This line is a new 16" version of Poppy Parker, which uses a similar body to the new FR:16 line. Her face, to me, is close to the original Poppy Parker, but she looks similar to the W Club doll Spring Kissed.

I think she's really cute, and I can't wait to see real life photos. The dolls retail for $150, and are limited to 300 worldwide, and are scheduled to ship in late June.

The first doll in the line-up is called Spring Morning. This doll looks like the fabric of her coat would go well with Spring Kissed's outfit. She's really cute. She has red hair, and comes dressed in a yellow dress, warm tweed coat, stockings, adorable heels, gloves, and includes a bag and jewelry.

Shop Around is a platinum ponytailed Poppy with a fun summery outfit and jewelry. Her lace crop top has tiny sequin details. I'm including some detail photos of her accessories as well.

You gotta love those handles, the bag and those wedges! Adorable.

The new Poppy Fashion Teen face: I think she's slightly more sophisticated, and maybe a tad more snobby-looking--possibly not as sweet as the 11" Poppy. I really like her!

Love Letters is a blonde fashion Poppy with a great purple brocade sleeveless dress, white "fur" cape, white gloves, silver shoes and clutch, and fun lavender facial screening. She also includes pearl jewelry.

No, she isn't getting married. Precious Love is merely a photo shoot, with a gorgeous two-part wedding dress, including an elegant sleeveless dress with a rushed waist, and a lace bolero with pearl detailing at the front. The short veil is trimmed with flowers. She includes delicate shoes, pearl jewelry, a ring, and bouquet.

Photos property of Integrity Toys.

Poppy Parker, please!

2012-01-28T08:52:00.000-08:00

Poppy Parker's collection made quite a splash at IDEX this year, including several exciting surprises.

Baby It's You is a brand new gift set of Poppy Parker and boyfriend Chip Farnsworth III, retail $150, LE650. It's Chip's dashing first appearance, but (more importantly) for those of you who missed out on the blonde I Love How You Love Me gift set, I think this will be your chance for a similarly styled doll. And a "bump" on a 1960s era doll who actually needs one! (Yay!) They are due to ship in late March.

Moonlight and Kisses is a new Darla Daley--limited to 350 for just $89. This fabulous girl has lovely facial screening and a simply gorgeous gown. She includes jewelry, a satin clutch and a microphone. She's due to ship in late February.

A delightful surprise for Poppy fans is the new addition to the line, Poppy Parker as Sabrina. All dolls are due to ship in mid June. The first doll is Miss Fairchild, LE 450, $125. An adorable version of Audrey Hepburn, Poppy does a great job in this portrayal of a little black dress, complete with a miniature daiquiri.

Sabrina is one of my favorite Hepburn movies of all time. And this look, Isn't it Romantic? is probably my favorite of the movie. This dressed Poppy is limited to 450, $125. It includes the iconic white and black flocked dress with "yards of fabric."

Most Sophisticated is a fun gift set which retails for $180 (LE 450). It includes Sabrina as she returns from Paris. She returns home with her French poodle David, a chic suit and hat, with luggage. She also includes two casual outfits--including a wrap-around plaid shirt and white shorts and sandals, as well as her black embroidered ballerina flats, black skinny cargo pants, reverse V-neck sweater, and overcoat.

The Chauffeur's Daughter features Sabrina before her transformation. This gift set includes a longer-haired Poppy, dressed in her cooking school uniform, and her brown jumper, and overcoat, before her trip to Paris. This set is limited to 350 and retails for $150.

Photos are property of Integrity Toys.

Nu.Fantasy news

2012-01-28T08:34:00.000-08:00

Hansel and Gretel are the two new releases from Integrity's Nu.Fantasy collection, also released at IDEX. Dolls are limited to 350 pieces each, retail for $135, and are due to ship in mid February.

Rare Treat Hansel has platinum rooted and flocked hair, light grey eyes, and a gothic-inspired outfit, including a houndstooth jacket with leather trim, pleated white shirt, cropped pleated pants and black boots. He includes and earring, sun glasses, backpack and wristwatch, too.

Sweet Nothings Gretel also has platinum hair in braids and curls. Her dress is shirred tulle and satin with embroidery. Her accessories include fabulous lace-up boots, a necktie and harness, bracelets, and earrings.

Photo property of Integrity Toys.

New FR:16 collection by Integrity Toys

2012-01-28T08:27:00.000-08:00

Integrity's fabulous new FR:16 collection made its official debut at IDEX this weekend. The dolls feature new body sculpts, rooted hair and eyelashes, modern clothing, and incredibly detailed accessories and shoes. Four new 16" dressed dolls have been added to the collection, and each doll is limited to 350, retail $175.

Press Magnate Saskia Tate is due to arrive in late March. She is chief owner and publisher of "The Wall" beauty magazine. She includes a faux leather skirt, top, "fur" collar, earrings, bracelet, clutch, and tie sandals.

Fit to Print Anais McNight is the fashion editor. She's wearing black satin skinny pants, a black and white top, fur cape-let, bracelets, earrings, sandals, and is carrying a portfolio style bag. She's due to arrive in late March as well.

Main Feature Elsa Lin makes her debut in Late February as beauty editor. Her brightly colored evening gown includes a matching bracelet, ring, earrings, and a gold clutch.

Perfect Layout Freja Mossimo is scheduled to arrive in late March. As the magazine's art director, Freja is dressed in a knit color blocked sweater, navy skirt, black purse, bracelets and earrings, and black cork wedge sandals.

All photos are property of Integrity Toys.

Nu FR: Monograms by Integrity Toys - IDEX release

2012-01-28T08:10:00.000-08:00

Integrity Toys has unveiled some fabulous new dolls at IDEX this year, and I'll be doing a recap in a couple of posts. The FR:Monogram dolls are back in flying colors--the details on the clothing, accessories and facial screening are lovely! Each doll retails for $160 and is limited to 350 pieces. All of these girls are scheduled to arrive at the end of February.

Echelon is scheduled to arrive February. Her fun, swing suit also includes a modern pleated blouse, summery sandals, a purse and oversized earrings.

Inspiration is dressed in a flowing mint gown with matching lift-off heeled shoes. Her retro-inspired auburn hair-do is tripped with a rhinestone jewel. She also includes drop earrings, a bracelet and an adorable little satin clutch.

Exaggeration uses color in a wonderful way, combining navy and taupe with color and lime. The wears a coral and taupe day dress with a modern oversized skirt with a short military navy blazer, and includes rose earrings, a three-rose brooch, a feathered and flowered hair decoration, reptilian print shoes and bag, and lime green gloves.

Admiration wears a classic white suit with a black bow trim, and includes red polkadot blouse, adorable black, white and red shoes, red purse, fabulous hat, and antiqued jewelry.

Last but not least, we have Allure, an elegant white beaded gown with a dramatic oversized red coat with white lining. This doll's look reminds me of Marilyn. She includes silver platform peep toes, silver earrings and bracelets, and a diamond ring.
Photos are property of Integrity Toys.

Diorama photo contest: Get published and win a prize!

2012-01-28T07:27:00.000-08:00

Check out Maryann Roy's blog, Welcome Home, for all the details of this upcoming contest.

Maryann has been working with Gems & Jewels jewelry store in Australia, and has received a contest challenge from the store owner, Suzy Allan: Create a diorama setting which includes a piece of human-sized jewelry.

Any doll scale and size may be used, only it must be included with human-scale jewelry in order to qualify.

For all the rules, and to see how to submit your entry, check out the latest edition of FDQ, or visit Maryann's website for details.

First prize: A beautiful doll-shaped charm (so adorable) chosen by the shop owner and created by Gems & Jewels, worth $675! (Check out the samples--ack!)

Second prize: A $75 gift certificate from Welcome Home!

Third prize: A copy of FDQ's fabulous IN FOCUS - Digital Photography for the Doll Collector.

The contest deadline is approaching soon--February 14, 2012, and it's open to collectors world-wide. Good luck!

Tonner's Nu Mood - and mine!

2012-01-25T17:16:00.000-08:00

Tyler's Nu Mood

The much anticipated release of Tyler Wentworth's Nu Mood has been released, and I'm excited to be able to post about it. I cannot decide which of the fabulous photos to post--a great site to see the entire collection in one place is Dreamcastle Dolls (and yes, this link will actually take you to the dolls site), as well as Tonner Doll's new website.

Some new inspiration for designer Robert Tonner, the Nu Mood dolls are available in three different body types for $59.99 per doll:

Fashion (wigged) - includes Tyler and Sydney. I'm noticing what looks like an articulated waist.

Dance (rooted hair) - includes Carrie, Parker and Jess. Smaller bust, it seems.

Curvy (wigged dolls) - including Bettie and Paige. Larger bust, but it appears she too has an articulated waist.

There are two skin tones:

Tyler skin tone and

Spice. So far, you may choose from seven different face sculpts:

Tyler

Sydney

Carrie

Parker (Friday Foster)

Jess (Cinderella or Cami)

Bettie

Paige

Additionally, for play, you can add In Step or Nu Mood Hands to your doll, which gives you three pairs of hands and feet in either of the skin tones for an additional $24.99 per set.

Eight styles of wigs are available for $39.99 each. My favorite is this one:

Then--the clothing and accessories! Three different pairs of ballet shoes, ten pairs of heels (including boots) and five pairs of flat shoes are available, for $34.99 per pair, except the ballet sets, which retail for $39.99. I admit, I've fallen for the ballet shoes.

There are three tops available ($49.99), and three pairs of pants ($34.99 per pair), and six different skirts (ranging from $44.99-69.99). Additionally, five bags are available as well ($34.99). Here are a few sample outfits:

Nu Mood™ Carrie Dance with Finishing Touch Ballet, [kitty magnet] Black Ballet Skirt and Black Top - retail $219.96

Nu Mood™ Tyler Fashion with Rose Top, Lilac Chiffon Skirt, High Heel #2 and Pink Bag - retail $229.95

Nu Mood™ Jess Dance with Champagne Top, Ballet Skirt, and Finishing Touch Ballet - retail $194.96

Nu Mood™ Jess with Black Top, Black Chiffon Skirt and Ankle Boots - $204.96

Interestingly, the outfit pieces say that they will fit all the dolls in the Nu Mood™ collection, so while the dolls have new bodies, the size differences must not be terribly significant, or the designs are such that they fall nicely on various body sizes and shapes. (This might be a good news for original Tyler body fans!)

In looking at this first release, I have to say there are a lot of choices. The concept is a little like build-your-own Tonner Doll. I'd be very interested to know if the bust is interchangeable with previous bodies, and exactly how the body has changed. I wonder if you might be able to swap the upper torsos of dolls in order to take advantage of the new foot options. (Specifically, I'm thinking of some older, lovely Theatre de la Mode Tyler Wentworth dolls I've been ogling lately.)

Also, some collectors might complain about the prices. Taken as a full set, as above, I'd say they are comparable to the other dressed dolls in Tonner's currently release, with a slight premium on being able to design the doll yourself. (Additionally, these are retail prices listed--not what you would pay from a dealer, and they aren't licensed products, which generally have a premium.)

The playability of the hands and feet are a plus, and the option to use the hands on the other dolls is intriguing. I really adore the ballet feet--and not just for dance. I think it would make for a fun photo shoot to pose dolls barefoot (I'm pretty much a California girl, now, I admit), with one en point foot stretching out to relax. I like that you can style the same doll in many different ways--with hands, feet, wigs, and bodies.

I'm thrilled to see Carrie and Friday again. Plus, I really didn't care for the Pin Up sculpt--till Paige. The styles of clothing are light, airy, whimsical--they remind me of something Tyler would design herself, if I may go that far.

The downsides to this collection: First, the number of choices and options are overwhelming. I know I'd like to add Paige, but I also want Jess. Having a single skin tone would be easier as far as sharing hands and feet (I'd really only need one foot/hand package per skin tone, I think). How to decide?

It would be easier for me if all the dolls were wigged (but I know there are collectors out there who can't stand wigs). Already, I've seen comments about having a brunette Jess.

Or if you could order upper and lower bodies separately--but what a mess that would be! However, that would solve the problem of wanting a truly design your own doll. Prices would probably increase then, too.

I can't even imagine what went into designing this collection--how to decide which sculpts go on which bodies. You just can't make every collector happy--but this comes close. I'm thrilled to see new body sculpts--and I think Mr. Tonner has needed some inspiration in the Wentworth arena recently. I'm glad to see the dance/fashion/1950s styles of dolls, attention to detail in facial screening to correspond for those styles, and hope to see more in the future.*

Plus, finding a new basic Tonner Doll for $59.99 is really a pretty good deal. Adding a foot or hand package to make the doll you want (or perhaps swapping with someone, or selling the extra pieces on the secondary market) is a price I'm certainly willing to pay.

Now all that's left for me is to decide which one(s) I'd like the most!

All photos are property of Tonner Doll Company.

More Tonner Spring 2012 releases...

2012-01-25T15:40:00.000-08:00

From the Gowns by Anne Harper collection (am I going to have to go there?), it's another to-die-for Rococo era outfit for my cotton candy historical fashion doll collection. This is Madame de l'Amour, retail $139.99, LE150, ship date to be decided. Check out those brocade shoes! The outfit includes the wig, and the model is a wigged Carol Barrie.

The Cami & Jon collection has added a dressed doll and two new outfits to the line, including above's Just Right dressed Cami. She has new facial screening, brown eyes and the cameo skin tone, a brown velvet suit with turquoise trim, and a fun chiffon printed blouse. $174.99, LE 500, arriving early February.

Radical Red is a new outfit, which will fit the Antoinette/Cami & Jon body, and it includes a red on red dot cardigan, not shown here in the photo. Retail $79.99, edition size 300, this outfit is shipping immediately.

The other C&J outfit is Soho Jaunt, an adorable casual look with lots of layering pieces. It includes a jean jacket, pink cardigan, cream camisole, cargo pants, boots, and pink check hat. This outfit is also limited to 300, retails for $99.99 and is arriving the middle of March.

The Freedom for Fashion™ collection has added two more dolls, including Neo Tokyo, a dressed bald Yoshio doll. He's wearing a faux leather coat, molded shoes, black twill pants, white tee and a scarf. He'll arrive mid February, retails for $199.99 and is limited to 500.

Akemi is a dressed Aiko doll with mink saran rooted hair on a cameo Antoinette body. She's limited to 350 dolls with a shipping date to be announced. I love her softer look and warm color tones. Her retail is $179.99.

A new Goth Antoinette basic doll is arriving right away, retail $89.99, and is limited to 400. She uses the lily skin tone, has blue grey eyes, bright red lips and rooted raven hair.

Starshine is a new outfit for Antoinette, retailing for $89.99, LE200. It includes a jersey wrap jacket with faux fur trim, skirt, belt, gloves, necklace and sandals. (Any guesses which Antoinette that is? She's lovely with the blue eye shadow.) This will arrive mid March.

Belladonna is a new 22" American Model outfit, which includes a sleeved corset, satin skirt, embroidered head piece, ribbon necklace, lace gauntlets, and fishnets. I just noticed shoes aren't included. Ship date is to be decided. Retail is $189.99, limited to 200. Additionally, three new styles of boots have been added to the American Model line up: Prim, Proper and Specs. All are open editions and are arriving mid March. They retail for $34.99 per pair.

From the Pirates of the Caribbean collection, we have Captain Jack who retails for $224.99 and is limited to 2500 dolls, according to the Tonner website, though some dealers have him listed limited to 500. He uses a new Johnny Depp head sculpt on the 17" Matt body with rooted mink and grey hair. His ship date is to be announced.

Penelope Cruz as Angelica also makes an appearance as a new head sculpt, brown painted eyes and mink hair. She's limited to 500 and retails for $199.99. She is scheduled to arrive in all her glory in mid February.

A new Dorothy Gale makes her debut to the Wizard of Oz line, and will ship mid February. She's limited to 500 and uses a brand new head sculpt on what Tonner calls the 16" teen body (she's wearing heels). Her hair is rooted, and all she's missing is Toto. Retail $149.99.

For Gone with the Wind fans, two new 16" dressed Scarlett dolls have been released. Both use the Vivian Leigh portrait sculpt (I'm not sure if this is different than the Scarlett sculpt). Also, both dolls' shipping dates are to be announced. Above, Scarlett's Wedding Day is limited to 325 and retails for $325.

Heartbroken is limited to just 300, and is a dressed doll retailing for $249.99. I'm really digging her up-do (similar to Royal #82) and slightly upturned side-glancing eyes. (I loved the GWTW movie, but I really haven't gotten into any themed dolls--this one, however--wow!)

Rogue (Marvel) is still to be decided on shipping and promotional photos. She'll be limited to 300 and retail for $159.99. But we do know she uses the Emily head sculpt with dark green eyes with rooted brown hair with platinum streaks.

More to come with Tonner's Nu Mood release!

Photos property of Tonner Doll Company.

Tonner's new releases part I

2012-01-25T11:59:00.000-08:00

Whee! This perhaps isn't news for those of you on Marl & B's mailing list, but I still wanted to wait for the rest of Tonner's releases to post to FDR. Of course, I have an appointment right now, if you're reading this at noon, so I'm actually missing the actual new release, but I do have some news for you now.

Update: I'm back, and I'm updating the prices and details of the dolls now.

First--a few movie releases from Tim Burton.

Above, Tim Burton's Corpse Bride Doll - Emily. Limited to 500, this doll uses the Monica Merrill head sculpt in a whole new way. She also uses the curvaceous body, lily skin tone, has blue saran hair and blue inset eyes. She's due to ship in later February. Retail $224.99.

Next, Tim Burton's Ms. Beetlejuice Doll also uses a lily toned Monica Merrill sculpt with the 16" curvaceous body. She has inset green/gray eyes, pale green rooted hair (not blonde--I think I might need this doll), and a fabulous outfit. She's in stock and retails for $224.99, and she's limited to 500.

DC Stars - 22" Batgirl 2012 - she uses the cameo skin tone on the 22" American Model body and head sculpt with inset blue acrylic eyes and rooted flame red hair. Her outfit is pretty fabulous--I can't wait to see her in person. She's gorgeous. She limited to only 150, and her retail is $324.99. She's due in mid March.

Star Sapphire is a Hermoine Granger head sculpt on a heroic 16" Tyler-tone body, with painted lavender eyes and raven hair. She includes two pairs of hands (one pair of painted gloves). Her outfit is pretty amazing, too. She's limited to 500, she'll be available to order on February 1 with shipping TBD. Retail is about $149.99.

Two new heroines are available from Marvel - Elektra uses the Renée Devereaux head sculpt on the 16" heroic body, with raven hair and brown eyes. She includes two knives, as well. She's limited to 300. Shipping to be announced, and retail $159.99.

Black Cat uses the Breathless head sculpt on a cameo 16" heroic body with blue eyes and blonde hair. She includes a black vinyl jumpsuit with faux fur trim. She also includes two pairs of hands (one gloved). She's due to ship in late March with a retail price of $159.99. Limited to 300.

I'll be updating shipping and pricing information shortly. As always--order these dolls from your favorite Tonner Doll dealer! (Sheesh--sorry about that earlier typo!)

Photos property of Tonner Doll Company.

One more update about the Barbie Fan Club...

2012-01-25T07:48:00.000-08:00

BFC 2012 is starting soon! Save the date - February 8, 2012 - registration begins for the Barbie Fan Club.

The cost is $24.95, and it really pays for itself. The entire year gives you:

$80 in shop rewards - These are $20 gift certificates that are available separately BarbieCollector.com, one per quarter.
The opportunity to purchase three dolls and one Silkstone Francie, available only to BFC members (one doll per membership)
Free Silkstone dress form (gift with purchase of membership)
Exclusive downloads and avatars
Limited membership to 7500 members
Access to online chats with designers, sneak peeks, and more!

You can see the newest BFC Exclusive, Afternoon Suit, available to active members only here. She looks like classic Dior to me.

BFC Email

2012-01-25T07:40:00.000-08:00

Oh! So--I'd been wondering why I hadn't been receiving much email from the Barbie Fan Club lately, and I came across a rather helpful post on the message board today.

First, with the new message board, your default setting is to not receive messages from BFC. I checked, and sure enough, I hadn't set my preferences to receive promotional email. Here's how to do it:

Log in to your account at BarbieCollector.com.
Click on Your Account (first drop-down menu at the top of the screen, under "Hello, [your name]."
Click on Edit Preferences (about a third of the way down the page in the My Account tab, it reads, "Edit Profile" and "Edit Preferences."
Scroll down to just above the bold Privacy Preferences section, and click the checkbox that says, "Sign up for email updates from BarbieCollector.com."
Click the pink Save button.

That's it. Just so you all know, the BarbieCollector email is a little different than email you get from ordering a catalog or placing an order.

So. That's not so hard. I'm embarrassed to admit I haven't done this sooner!

Kardashian dolls from Mattel?

2012-01-25T07:31:00.000-08:00

A clarification from the official BarbieCollector message board, dated January 20, 2012:

As popular as the Kardashian doll rumor has been, at this point in time we are not manufacturing Barbie-branded Kardashian dolls. For information on products that are currently available, please check out our websites often to see all the new and exciting products that are coming out at www.mattel.com.

Why is this such a giant relief for me?

New Barbies from 2012

2012-01-25T07:23:00.000-08:00

Walking Suit Barbie BRFC

Angelic Dreamz has posted new 2012 Barbies that are now available for pre-order at their website.

There are two new additions to the Twilight collection: Breaking Dawn Part I Edward and Bella, who retail for $34.99 per doll, both finely dressed in wedding attire. Bella has a particularly lovely facial screening, I think. These dolls are due in the spring of this year.

Ken has a new eco-conscious car, a MINI Cooper, which is available and in stock now for a price of $39.99. While no dolls are included with this set, it's high time Ken quits mooching off his girlfriend and gets his own wheels. There's lots of great detailing on this vehicle, including side mirrors that move, MINI logos on the hood and hubcaps, and a Ken vanity plate.

Two have particularly caught my eye, even though I don't collect Silkstones anymore (I don't, I don't, I don't--and telling myself this isn't working, LOL!).

Walking Suit Barbie, shoe above, is a fun tribute to the 1950s, dressed in a slightly oversized printed black and whit houndstooth suit. The tiny upturned collar and oversized chiffon white bow add interested and class to this blond side-glancing girl. She includes a handbag, umbrella, black hat with netting (I'm sure that's what gets me), and hatbox. She's due to ship in March, and retails for $75.

Party Dress Barbie BFCM

Party Dress Barbie also caught my eye. Her brown hair is styled in a gorgeous updo, trimmed with a Tiffany-style tiara. She's dressed in a cream-colored cocktail dress with gold and lace overlay and turquoise satin bow trim, along with a matching bolero, gloves, and shoes. Her rhinestone and pearl earrings give her just a touch of elegance, without being overdone. She is also due to ship in March, with a retail price of $100.

Photos are property of Angelic Dreamz and used with permission.

Today at noon EST - Tonner release!

2012-01-25T06:12:00.000-08:00

Visit TonnerDoll.com for the latest releases today at noon! There will be some new surprises in there, including new DC Stars, Marvel characters, and more!

No phone, no lights, one kitty cat...

2012-01-21T12:54:00.000-08:00

As some of you have probably heard, we had a major "weather event" here in Washington State. From Thursday at 11:30 am, to 5:30 am this morning, I had no power.

The following picture pretty much sums up Washington every single time we get snow:

Whoops!

My beloved, oh so goofy Cute, Fuzzy, Doll-Seeking Missile of Mass Destruction, better known as Stormy, decided he was going to try darting out the door every time I wanted to go out to snap some doll pictures. My brother Chet finally decided to put his leash and harness on.

Daddy, it's COLD outside!

Stormy was less than THRILLED with his outdoor adventure.

After about two minutes of doing some rather fast footwork, he gave Chet the "Big, sad eyes," and was doing his air raid siren impersonation to be let back in! All this without getting a chance to eat a tasty doll, which is what I think started the little excursion. Wouldn't you know, he was still trying to get outside today.

The Waif

2012-01-20T16:51:00.001-08:00

The Waif, a photo by alington on Flickr.

A birthday present from my brother- and sister-in-law (from an Amazon gift certificate, what a great present!), this is Tonner Doll's The Waif, from the Sinister Circus line. She's been on my wish list a long time, but because of her 15" teen body, I just have been hesitating.

I shouldn't have. This doll is gorgeous. She's photogenic. Her outfit is beautiful. Her long hair is thick and rave. Her eyes glow. Her face is really gorgeous. I love how she displays with my taller girls.

She uses Alice's Sister's sculpt.

You can see more photos in my Flickr photostream.

Ellowyne Wilde has finally won me over!

2012-01-20T11:18:00.000-08:00

Lizette Dionne, new Essential Wigged Out doll, photo property of Wilde Imagination.

No, it's not a resin Ellowne Wilde that has won me over, but her brand new friend Lizette! She's available now in three different designs, and you simply must pop over to Wilde Imagination to check her out.

Essential Lizette Wigged Out $119 - includes two wigs and basic lingerie, in the spice skin tone with gorgeous brown eyes.

Lizette - A New Girl in Town $149 - This gorgeous dress doll comes in a lovely off-white tied shirt, shantung skirt with pleated trim, socks, buckled shoes, gloves and Sunday hat.

Pretty Little Lizette $149 - This girl comes in a honey skin tone with a red wig and gorgeous floral print ruffled dress, blue stockings, stripy sandals and faux leather bag.

Through January 31, all Lizette Dionne dolls ship for free within the continental US. International customers may email customer service with the subject LIZETTE and your order number and name, and receive a $9.95 shipping credit, when your order includes at least one Lizette doll.

Sale at Angelic Dreams!

2012-01-20T11:07:00.000-08:00

Take 15% off all in-stock Barbie, Integrity, Tonner Doll, Ashton-Drake, Celebrity Dolls, Sideshow Toys, Madame Alexander, 2010 Gene Marshall and some Barbie, too. Get free shipping on orders of just $75 and more from Angelic Dreams!

Discounts on items not already on sale, January 20-22, 2012. No coupon necessary!

Doll Duels widget...

2012-01-16T09:01:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Tonner Doll's social media team, you can actually play Doll Duels right here on the Fashion Doll Review now:

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Click here to visit the actual Doll Duels website.

While it's fun to play around with the gadgets, and for me, a great way to build my grail list of Tonner Dolls from real-life (and some photoshopped) photos, I have to say the Doll Duels site does have a pretty cool purpose. Its primary reason for creation was to feature one-of-a-kind doll artists and their websites.

When you go to the Leaderboard, Categories or Newest Pics pages, you can click on the specific photos you like best. Each photo lists the person who submitted the photo and URL, and information about hat specific photo. Additionally, you can share the photo via Twitter and many other methods.

Save 15% at Tonner Dolls today!

2012-01-15T16:28:00.000-08:00

Use the promo code THANKYOU15 and save 15% at Tonner Doll Company. I just saw this promotion today at the Doll Duels website, so I'm not sure of the expiration date or details. Happy shopping!

Update: This promo code expired January 16, 2012. However, there will be promotional codes listed like this on the Doll Duels website from time to time, so keep your eyes open.

Perfectly Purple Poppy Parker

2012-01-11T16:23:00.000-08:00

When it rains it pours. Yesterday I received three new dolls from the Poppy Parker line. The first is Perfectly Purple and she is Mary Tyler Moore all the way! I love her. The suit is darling and check out the details on her shoes. The only part of her outfit I don't like are those odd three-part white gloves. This Poppy was a limited edition of 400 (which sold out quickly) and was part of the mainline 2011 collection. She has green forward-facing eyes and medium-length brown hair. Just darling...

Notes on various eBay posts...

2012-01-11T06:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was my birthday, and I spent a lot of the day wasting it online. I was browsing eBay--you know, research--and I came across some eBay auctions that were interesting to me as a collector and enthusiast.

Probably the best deal ever, listed at just $109 for a starting bid: 10 CLASH OF THE TITANS BY ROBERT TONNER, NEW, NEVER BEEN REMOVED FROM BOX
The photo, however is for a single doll. I believe her name might be Io.
Interesting information about this lovely In Bloom nude Antoinette, and not so funny, which is that she has a stain around her ankles from her blue pantyhose. I haven't had a doll with dark hose stain for at least a year. Is it because I'm in a desert climate? Any other experience with this doll?
Fun stuff with new real-life photos of the lovely Allure Antoinette--I loved her promos, but wow! She is gorgeous!
The new In The City Dynamite Girls are showing up on eBay... keeping in mind these girls retail for $60, here is You Sexy Thing Jasper starting at $125, Mighty Real Reese at $80 (she's adorable!), and Good Times Dayle starting at $80. As of this post, Hot Stuff Cruz is at $109.49.
You'll be able to see fashion shots of Poppy on FDR soon, but if you can't wait, here's Foto Fab and Perfectly Purple. Hit Single Darla Daley is an adorable surprise as well.
OMG--It's Ready, Steady, Go Poppy Parker! 11 hours left and still $175!