The Doll Cafe

Barbie Raises Money for Charity!

2011-12-08T22:57:00.001-08:00

Heavenly Trio of Barbie Angels & Display Case , a photo by The Doll Cafe on Flickr.

Now available at Charity Buzz are many OOAK Barbies and unique Barbie gift items being auctioned off for charity. This year brings another beautiful holiday Steffie. She is in the set Heavenly Trio of Barbie Angels. Other amazing OOAK Barbies include a stunning Hollywood beauty by Bill Greening. A cute Francie gift set and the celebrity dolls of Nicki Minaj and Katy Perry. Check out the OOAK Barbie Dream House. There are so many amazing details that it almost makes me want to customize my own Barbie house! Help out Project Angel Food and receive a beautiful one of a kind Barbie in return!

I Love My Nighty Brights Francie

2011-11-14T23:19:00.000-08:00

I love this new Francie! She is much more than I expected! Now I would really love to go back and get Check Please Francie but there are so many new dolls that I want! Here is one of my fave pics. Click to see more of the pics on my Flickr page!

Silkstone Francie Exclusive for Barbie Fan Club Members!

2011-10-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

"Francie, Check Please! by mood4mod, on Flickr"

Just as anticipated, Barbie Collector has announced the new Silkstone Francie! Her name is "Nighty Brights" and she features her nighty outfit and a cute yellow mod shift dress. Barbie Collector also announced some cute collectibles honoring Francie! Francie will be available on November 2 at 9:00 a.m. Pacific. Here is her page at Barbie Collector. If you would like her, it's not too late to join! I'm hoping this one will be more of a hit with collectors but as you know repros always bring up strong feelings for collectors. Mattel tries to please vintage collectors but sometimes the new interpretations are not exactly what the collectors hoped for. Recent comments about the repro Check Please Francie were mixed. Some collectors have noted that Francie's lips and eyes were too cartoon like! I think this is an interesting addition to the Silkstone line but I'm still a big fan of the classic looks and tailored outfits of the earlier Silkstone offerings. I think this Francie is a cutie who may end up on my list sooner or later! If you are a Barbie Fan Club member check out this exclusive content!

Barbie Collector: Hollywood Icons Sale at Gilt

2011-10-24T22:28:00.000-07:00

Don't think I blogged about the previous blog sale so I hope you see this in time! The last great sale at Gilt Groupe allowed me to buy the Russian Silkies I was seeking for just $50! This time they are having a Barbie Collector: Hollywood Icons sale featuring the Grace Kelly vinyl and Silkstone dolls, Elvis, Sinatra, Dynasty, Lucy and Ricky and more Barbies. If you haven't signed up use this link and you will be ready for the sale tomorrow morning at 9:00 a.m. Pacific time. You can get into the sale at 8:00 a.m. Pacific if you go to the Gilt Children's page and look for the Exclusive Sales tab. I already got my Sinatra and Elvis Barbies but maybe you can find one with your name on it!

Can you Believe the Tokidoki Barbie Firestorm?

2011-10-23T10:17:00.001-07:00

Tokidoki Barbie, a photo by ShellyS on Flickr.

Wow, who could predict that Miss Tokidoki Barbie would cause such a firestorm! I'm sure you've read the articles and may have even seen the news reports on CNN and other outlets. I loved this doll from the moment I saw her pictures from Toy Fair. There is no way this is a child's Barbie doll and I'm not buying into all the articles and new stories that the media has picked up on. Now that Barbie Collector announced on 10/21/11 that this Barbie is really sold out she seems to have gone up in price considerably! A few weeks ago I was able to meet the designer Simone Legno in Santa Monica, California. I hope you enjoy the pics!

Katrina Kaif Barbie Pics

2011-08-28T00:49:00.001-07:00

Katrina Kaif Barbie , a photo by The Doll Cafe on Flickr.

I finally had the chance to take some pics of the Katrina Kaif I Can Be Barbie. As Barbies go she is a regular playline belly button Barbie with the Lara/Drew face mold. Her accessories include a female Oscar and a gold purse with matching gold jewelry that's a little nicer than most recent playline dolls. It's too bad that playline dolls no longer feature this face mold. The face mold gives her more of a collector doll look. I was hoping the doll would look more like the prototype that I posted about in my last post but this doll is very beautiful and she could easily be rebodied to a model muse body as the skin tone is the usual Barbie tan color that a lot of MM bodies come with!

Barbie goes Bollywood with the Katrina Kaif Barbie Doll

2011-08-26T10:42:00.000-07:00

I have heard a lot about Katrina Kaif and her upcoming Barbie doll but I don't know much more about Katrina apart from the fact that she is an actress born in England who became a big Bollywood star! I remember reading about the doll last fall and there were even prototype pictures available. As you can see from the pics, the prototype is wearing an outfit similar to an outfit that Katrina Kaif modeled for Barbie's 50th Anniversary. The doll was also a Model Muse doll. It looks like Katrina Barbie went through some changes for the final product. Now you can own her Barbie doll from the I Can Be series. Barbie I Can Be a Movie Star, Katrina Kaif features the Barbie I Can Be a Movie Star packaging that is similar to the US Version. Katrina Barbie also holds a female gold "Oscar" in her hand. I was able to obtain one of these dolls from a friend in India. I will post some pictures in my next blog post.

Barbie hits the red carpet in first UK TV campaign

2011-08-25T11:19:00.000-07:00

Barbie is a star, but I'm shocked to learn that this is her first UK TV campaign. According to Adpraisal, ad agency Ogivily has created two adverts aimed to strengthen and build Barbie’s relationship with 4-9 year old girls. I hope the stores are well stocked with Barbie items for our UK Barbie fans. May this be the beginning of a nice successful campaign. Since Barbie is heading off on her Grand Tour for Barbie Convention in 2012, maybe the UK decided to get in on the fun. This looks kind of like a teaser since I doubt these Barbies will ever actually be produced. Look at the Ken. He seems to be the glamorous Ken staring in ads this year. Barbie looks like she is wearing a dress based on the Heidi Klum Barbie dress. The Barbie also looks like a glammed up Fashionista Barbie. Hopefully the UK will see increased interest and sales for our favorite girl in their future!

Barbie Basics 2.1 or 2.5?

2011-08-12T00:16:00.001-07:00

Barbie basics, a photo by Jesús_Doll Addict on Flickr.

The Metallic Basics are now available! We've seen several pics of them on ebay mostly from a foreign seller. These boxes are labeled 2.1! Today, Barbie Collector placed the collection for sale in their shop, for the nice price of $19.99 I might add, and listed them as 2.5. Well, 2.1 or 2.5 take a look at this Flickr stream with some great pics of two out of the three new Barbie Basics! Wow! What do you think of the body? Is it what you expected? I ordered my dolls today and ordered two of each of these dolls. I want one on the pivotal body and one on MM. I am waiting to get a second of Model No. 8 because I'm not sure if her skin tone will match any MM bodies I have. I know, I'm strange. LOL!

I saved a lot of money because of the sale that Barbie Collector currently has going. I hope my dolls arrive soon!

Enjoy!

2011 Barbie Convention Report Part 2

2011-08-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

Check out this great video that convention goers at the 2011 convention were treated to promoting the 2012 Barbie Convention The Grand Tour. Credit goes to co-chair Rocky! It is beautifully produced and I think you will enjoy it. It brought me back to the fun times of 2011's convention! After seeing this, I'm super excited for 2012!

2011 Barbie Convention Report Part 1 of . . .

2011-08-07T12:37:00.001-07:00

Barbie Basics 3.0, a photo by The Doll Cafe on Flickr.

It has been an exhausting couple of weeks. I was preparing for, attending and recovering from the 2012 National Barbie Doll Collector's Convention in Ft. Lauderdale Florida! The convention was amazing! So many things to see and do! Please see my Flickr set for the pictures I took of the Barbie Basics 3.0 and the two accessory packs that will be available. These dolls were available for viewing at the Barbie Fan Club event on Friday July 29, 2011. BC Shannon was hosting this table display. Sadly, it has been reported that this collection will be the last in the set of Barbie Basics.

Halloween Haunt Coming This Fall

2011-07-15T11:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a doll I am excited about. I like the vintage look with the modern styling. She is much cuter than the upcoming Dracula Mackie doll. I cannot post pictures but if you are a Barbie Fan Club member you can take a look at the recent sneaks. This cutie is much more up my ally. What do you think? She is a Bill Greening Barbie.

Halloween Haunt Barbie

I hope her production issue is similar to the prototype shown here. I think she would look great paired with the vintage Bewitched Barbie. I missed out on this one but there is always ebay!

Great Couples: 50th Anniversary Barbie and Basics Ken

2011-07-13T22:57:00.001-07:00

50th Anniversary Barbie and Basics Ken, a photo by The Doll Cafe on Flickr.

Welcome to the first pic in my Great Couples series. 50th Anniversary Barbie is so glamorous even in Model No. 3's black sleeveless T.

Happy Birthday Ken!

2011-03-11T01:46:00.001-08:00

Model No 15 a photo by The Doll Cafe on Flickr.

Dear Ken: You are sure looking good at 50. I think you have never looked better! Can you please ask Mattel to make you with articulated arms, legs and wrists from now on? That would be the best birthday gift ever! Well, a girl can dream can't she? Gotta love you!

She Said Yes!

2011-02-14T21:02:00.001-08:00

Model No. 3, Model No. 16
Originally uploaded by The Doll Cafe

After splitting on Valentine's Day 2004, Barbie and Ken announced today that Valentine's 2011 is the day they found love again! Ken's campaign has been nothing short of amazing! From the fabu Magnolia cupcakes to the billboard campaign to declaring his love in Times Square for all to see, how could Barbie say no?!? Of course she couldn't. These two were meant to be. I always knew they never stopped loving each other! To celebrate, Ken was on hand New York and in Los Angeles at the Grove to let Barbie and Ken fans pose with Ken and make it an all around happy day! Click here to watch a cute vid summarizing how they got back together! Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

New Barbies Announced

2011-02-13T15:06:00.001-08:00

BarbieToyfair2011_MG_3387a
Originally uploaded by mawphoto.com

Toy Fair always brings amazing new Barbies to behold! Check out this amazing Tokioki Barbie. She uses the beloved Steffie mold and check out her amazing tattoo! Earlier this week Barbie Collector also posted pictures of the Barbie Basics 2.5. There is no Steffie doll, but that's ok. With this pink haired beauty I'll forgive whoever made the decision to leave Ms. Steffie out of Collection 2.5. I know I will be getting more than one of these beauties. Take a look at the amazing pictures. Her toe nails are black and look at those glittery peek toe pumps! Bravo! Take a look at the new Farrah packaging. Other new collections include Barbie Art Collection, 2011 Holiday Dolls, and a new Couture Angel! Check out all the pics posted by MAW photo. I see an amazing likeness of Rock Hudson and what looks like a Barbie Loves Elvis and Frank Sinatra set. Enjoy!

Barbie, Ken Wants You Back

2011-01-30T00:00:00.001-08:00

You're the Only doll for me ♥ Ken
Originally uploaded by The Doll Cafe

Although he's just about to hit the big 50, Ken is working hard these days to win Barbie back. The couple last spotted together in 2004 reunited last summer in Toy Story, and word has it that there may be a reconciliation! Ken has been taking out full page ads in major magazines asking his old flame to reconsider. Additionally, a new website lets you vote, maybe Barbie will listen to the fans? It's not an overwhelming yes, take a look! This week Magnolia Bakery helps Ken woo his favorite doll with the creation of the "Barbie" Cupcake: a classic vanilla or chocolate cupcake iced with Barbie's favorite shades of pink buttercream and sparkling sugar crystals, topped with a white chocolate heart inscribed with a special message from Ken. I couldn't resist and had to try these cupcakes myself. I know sweets are always a way to my heart! LOL! So, what do you think? Should Barbie enjoy her single days or should she give Ken another chance?

Still Having Fun with Basics Collection 2.0

2011-01-28T16:00:00.001-08:00

Barbie Basics Collection 2
Originally uploaded by The Doll Cafe

I just recently went "Pro" on my Flickr account and have had tons of fun posting pictures of the Barbie Basics Collection 2. I was lucky enough to find all of them at Walmart and Target a few weeks ago and I just completed my collection with the Louboutin Model No. 14. This collection has something for everyone. With the variety of facemolds and the addition of the Ken Basics this collection is a real winner. Barbie Designer Bill Greening posted on the Barbie Collector board that there will be a collection 2.5 and this collection will have some articulation! The dolls in the collection have not yet been revealed. It seems like this will be a mini collection until there is another full collection! Exciting!

Barbie Basics Collection 2

2011-01-07T18:56:00.001-08:00

Model No. 1 close-up
Originally uploaded by mo1160

The Basics Collection are popping up just about everywhere, except Amazon! They showed up about a month ago very briefly. It appears some third-party sellers are selling them for the ridiculous price of $45.99. Hopefully Amazon instead of a third party seller will stock these dolls soon!

So far, I've managed to find the dolls at Target and Walmart but for the last few that are difficult to find Amazon might be a great bet. Of course, Barbie Collector is now taking pre-orders but the dolls will be available on January 13th. Get your orders in now, scour your Targets and/or Walmarts, and get your hands on some of these beauties. They are the hottest thing sweeping the Barbie Collector community since Barbie's big 50th! Wow, with three new Basics guys and this year being Ken's 50th, who knows, we might be celebrating even bigger than with our girl!

Barbie Friendships

2011-01-04T22:01:00.001-08:00

Holiday Harmony Close-up
Originally uploaded by mo1160

Today I was reflecting on all the fantastic friendships I have made through my Barbie collecting hobby. I never cease to be amazed at the beautiful hearts that Barbie Collectors have. Not only that, so many of my Barbie friends are extremely talented! There is something about this little vinyl doll that brings a lot of warm feelings to my heart. Who knew the doll I played with as a child would continue to bring me such joy and such friendship! On that note, this is Holiday Harmony. A beautiful OOAK Birthstone Steffie I received from my friend Helen from Christmas in 2008. Helen, also known as @dollsaga is a talented doll artist, blogger and all around great lady. I encourage you to visit her blog and her ebay auctions. You never know what will pop up there. In the coming weeks I will feature more beautiful OOAK dolls I have received from Helen.

Happy New Year From the Doll Cafe

2011-01-02T14:08:00.001-08:00

Sorry for the lack of updates! I hope you are reading our forum and following our Twitter for the quickest updates! The Barbie Basics Collection 2.0 have been released, new So in Style dolls are out and new Barbie Collector Dolls are out and more are on the horizon. I'd love to keep in touch here more regularly. I guess the easiest and quickest way is to bring you a Doll Cafe Picture of the day!

As a Steffie fanatic, here is The Sun Set Malibu PJ from 1972 by robincua©. Sheer perfection don't you think?

Have You Seen the New Kens? What do You Think?

2010-10-15T12:17:00.000-07:00

Take a look at the new Kens. Thank you Mattel, you do listen to us, but a few steps are always taken back before they are taken forward aren't they? With the dawning of the Barbie Twilight Edward Doll and the Barbie Harley - Davidson Ken Mattel brought us some much needed improvements. A new body sculpt with more poseability and a more manly physique. Poseability has now reached the playline Ken dolls but what happened with the facial sculpts? I guess Bieber Fever has hit toy shelves! The new Kens have a face sculpt that gives off a more squarish jaw but also a younger appearance! Remember the shorty dolls from a few years ago? I think these new Kens would look great with those dolls but we all know what happened with those dolls!

Don't get me wrong, I'm not saying I wouldn't purchase these dolls, but it will take a while for me to get used to them. Because of the new neck knobs it will be difficult to switch the heads on these dolls if you are buying them simply for the new body. Let's hear what you think. Running out to by them, um... I don't think so, or I'm still undecided . . .

Shaving Fun Ken

Barbie Princess Groom Ken

Where is the Doll Cafe Forum?

2010-09-29T19:48:00.000-07:00

Just a quick note to let you all know that our forum is undergoing some much needed maintenance. We are hoping to have all our maintenance completed by this weekend. Please check back here for more info. In the meantime you are welcome to join us at our Doll Cafe Facebook page or our Twitter!

Sorry for the inconvenience. If you need further assistance or info please contact sandra at the doll cafe dot com!

Do You Like the Brand or The Doll?

2010-07-08T00:59:00.000-07:00

I found this interesting article today called "Case Study - Barbie." The article describes how Mattel went about marketing the Barbie brand in China. Since the Barbie doll is not a doll that most mother' have grown up with in China, Mattel is using the store as a shopping experience that will actually bring the consumer to a one stop boutique featuring products and services like a spa, a make-up counter and clothing. The article relates that Mattel is using the store almost as an experiment to see what will help them sell more product, i.e. dolls. I thought this was very interesting. I've always thought of Barbie as a doll, not a brand. The more I thought about it, this is an impressive marketing scheme. Actually, I would love to see more Barbie and Mattel branded product than the dolls and I would love to see it in a one stop shop store like Shanghai's store. It would certainly help sell more product! According to the article, this may not be feasible in many markets. What do you think?

Harley Davidson Giftset is on Sale

2010-07-05T02:31:00.000-07:00

I just logged into Amazon and noticed that the Harley Davidson Giftset is on sale for $42.49. The set is also on sale at Walmart for the same price! I'm glad I held out for this set because it looks like it's time to buy! What is great about this set is that the Ken features the new body sculpt first found on Edward Twilight Ken, and the HD doll is a model muse style body with articulated knees. On that note, here is an amazing picture of the Ken courtesy of Therese, one of our forum members. You can see more pics here! For your convenience here is a link to ordering this set on Amazon! I noticed Debbie Harry and Cyndi Lauper Ladies of the 80s are also on sale!