New releases from Barbie - photos are here

In my regular newsletter from Vogue's Collectibles, and I was delighted to see several new photos in there. Both sets are ready for pre-order from your favorite Barbie dealer.

First, a set that is terribly tempting to the shoe fetish that reside deep in my sole, is the Christian Louboutin Shoe pack. This Gold Label set retails for $69.95 and includes nine pairs of adorable shoes (replicas of actual shoes from the Louboutin line) and a few shoe boxes. They are so cute. These are due to ship in September 2010.

Second, the next in line for the Ladies of the 80s series, Jennifer Beals from 1983's Flashdance. She retails for $39.95, and I believe she uses the Mackie face mold. Her outfit uses the sweatshirt and leg warmers. The chair isn't included, and the pillows are chipboard and a part of the packaging. My only comment here is one noted by Dolls of Color's latest blog, and that's the color of her skin--she's very white, which I find rather interesting, to say the least.
These aren't quite ready for pre-order yet. From the Barbie Basics line, we've seen photos of the new Barbie Basics Wave 2. I must add Wave 2 #2, as Steffie is a staple in this house. Additionally, I've finally found real promo photos of the Basic 1.5 Shoe Pack Accessory #8, which includes 18 pairs of shoes. CUte! Love the zebra! And more fun clothing, jacket, skirt and purse accessories are included in Basic Look 1.5 Accessory #5 set. Both retail for #22.99.

Photos property of Mattel.

The No. 10 "Scandal"

Barbie Fashionista Glam, originally uploaded by alington.

I think I first read about the scandal on a doll blog this morning (and of course, I can't remember which), and it was all over Twitter. If you read about Barbie on the web, I'm sure you've heard of the latest Barbie "scandal" involving the gorgeous Basic Barbie No. 10, who is considered "too busty" for younger girls.

When I saw the original interviews (and the "extensive" one minute 25 second story), I noticed several things:

1. The reporter of the story is comparing collector dolls designed for adults (Barbie Basics) to playline dolls. It occurs to me that the general public perhaps really doesn't know there is a difference. Would a mother really buy her daughter a $20 doll dressed only in a black dress and shoes? 
2. The first woman who is interviewed is wearing a deep v-necked shirt, which is quite flattering for her figure. While she isn't quite as perky as the Barbie, it's still fairly low cut. I wonder if she realizes that her wardrobe choices possibly minimizes the importance her complaint about the doll.
3. Then, when the woman holds up the "right kind" of doll, she displays an older style Doll of the World Barbie, who is dressed in traditional costume. This is one type of collector doll which included world heritage costumes. Barbie Basics are fashion models, and they are fashion dolls. They shouldn't be wearing ruffles, turtlenecks and full-length gowns, because, even this woman's own wardrobe reflects, this is not what current fashion dictates.
4. The second woman discusses the idea of introducing age-appropriate Barbies to her girls, and is fascinated by "middle-aged adult women" who pay "up to $100" for a doll. This sort of points out an extreme lack of awareness in the public of doll collectors. Check out Mattel's press release of the most expensive Barbie by Canturi, which was valued at over $545,000 for more on this subject.
5. Finally, the doll in question is a black doll. Both women interviewed in the story are white. In the women's homes, I only saw white dolls. This doesn't mean that they don't have any non-white dolls, of course. But I wonder if the underlying source of this "wardrobe complaint" wasn't really rooted in something more subversive. One of the things I really like about the Barbie Basics line is the dolls' diversity. I was impressed with the variety of sculpts and skin tones that Mattel usually doesn't tackle very well. It seems to me that racism is very deeply rooted in our society, and if Mattel will fight this tooth and nail to keep this gorgeous doll on the shelf, I think that's one more tiny step towards progress.

Finally, I have to speak out as a mother of four children. Seriously now, when I take my children to Target, here is my experience:

• Yes, they ask for toys. But I do not buy them every toy in the store, nor do I buy them everything they want. 
• Yes, they often want age-inappropriate toys. But I did not buy them toys with small pieces before they were three, and I still do not allow M-rated video games in the house.
• And no, the toys do not jump off the shelves into my cart without my knowledge. (Well, if I am alone, that might happen, especially at Target, since it can go under the "household" category in Quicken. But it's more like a case of my right hand not knowing what my left hand is doing.)

So if you don't like it, you'll be relieved to know that you don't have to buy it! It's as simple as that. Get over it. It's a doll. I'm just amazed at what passes as news. Isn't there anything more interesting to report? Though heck, it does make for an interesting blog post. ;)

Vintage Talking PJ

Vintage Talking PJ, originally uploaded by alington.

Here is a slightly better shot of a 1969 vintage Talking PJ. She's been squeezed into a current playline Barbie swimsuit and coverup, and she's holding a martini. I think it's perfect for beach season.

I just adore this girl.

Vintage Barbies on Display

Glass diplay vintage Barbies, originally uploaded by alington.

It's mint green and blue month at my house. I would have just one color, if I had more outfits, quit spending so much money on BJDs, and actually sold unwanted dolls rather than trading them, I suppose. But what would be the fun in that?

From the left:

• 1968 Brownette Talking Barbie in Zokko repro outfit
• 1969 Talking PJ in a current playline outfit (flip flops and martinini glass were also included in the set of three outfits, and the clothes barely fit)
• 1975 (rebodied) Free Moving PJ, also redressed in, current playline Barbie clothes which barely fit
• 1968 Talking Barbie (brunette), wearing current playline Barbie dress and Barbie Basics accessory pack boots

Do you rotate your displays? Do you have themes or redress your dolls? How often?

You can see more photos of my May display on my Flickr photostream.

Red, White and Warm Barbie Barbie Vintage Repro 1969 Made for Each Other My Favorite Career Vintage Student Teacher Sixties Fun Barbie Vintage 1974 Mattel Three Floors Townhouse

Barbie Basics - Target Exclusives

Barbie Basics LRD - Target Exclusives, originally uploaded by tru_fashionista.

Hang onto your hats--this adorable set of three Barbie Basics will be a fun Target exclusive available in the fall of 2010. The set will also include a red and white accessory pack and a second accessory pack.

Additionally, the Barbie Basics line will also release two more shoe packs and another Fashion accessory pack.

(Eeek--one of these ladies is Steffi, no bangs! And we actually don't have either of the other two dolls in black dresses yet, either. Love them--all three!)

Photo property of Mattel.


  

Got an extra 1,600 Euros?

According to a short blog post in BoingBoing, there is a hotel in Paris (called the Hotel Plaza Athénée), which has two Barbie-themed rooms. Designed for guests, aged three and over, these rooms are modeled after Barbie's dream house. Including in the 1,600 Euro (per night) cost, a "special girlie gift" is also included, which is apparently "designed by Barbie."

For you fortunate parents, you can have a connecting room for a mere 2,500 Euros per night.

I noticed that there are quite a few strongly negative comments on this post on BoingBoing post. And while I would agree that spending $5,200 per night at a hotel does seem a little pricey (and certainly more than I'd like to spend), I would be the last person to pass judgment on how a wealthy person spends his or her travel money. I still don't understand what the big deal is--I have four children, and I know it's possible to spoil them. But it's also terribly fun to splurge on them occasionally. But it's quite possible I just don't have enough experience as a mother. Or a doll collector.

What's your opinion?

Photo property of the Hotel Plaza Athénée.

New Barbies announced and available for pre-order!

Several new Barbies (and friends) have been announced. I heard about these from My Favourite Doll in Canada.

• Mad Men Roger Sterling--Sterling Cooper partner's silver haired companion doll. He is ready for pre-order now, for $79.95. Estimated delivery is July 2010.
• For you Twilight fans, I'm thrilled to announce the lovely Alice. With her wonderful short brown flip and golden eyes, she comes dressed in her standard fashionable outfit: a peasant blouse, velvet vest, and skinny jeans. She's available for pre-order for $34.95 with a fall 2010 delivery date.
• Victoria is also available. Fashionably dressed in a glamorous coast, striped vest and purple blouse, and skinny jeans with black boots, don't let her beautiful fiery red curls distract you from her evil intentions. Retail price is $29.95 and she's expected in fall 2010 as well.

MFD will be closed for the holidays next week, from May 10-15. But they also advertise that they have both the Christian Louboutin Anemone Barbie in stock now, and will have Palm Beach Coral (Silkstone) next week.

Photos courtesy of Mattel/My Favourite Doll.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!

In celebration of this holiday, check out the following cuties, courtesy of Amazon:

• Barbie Peek-a-boo Petites: Girls of the World Collection - #48 Maria of Mexico Doll
• Dolls of the World Mexican Barbie Doll 1988
• Bratz Party Yasmin New in Box
• Dolls of the World Collection Mexican Barbie Doll
• Barbie "Teresa" - Quinceanera 15
• Festiva Barbie
• Barbie Collector - Dolls of the World - Princess of Ancient Mexico Barbie
• Nivica Dba Falcon Miniatures - Dollhouse - Nachos Grande sold at Miniatures
• Madame Alexander Dolls, 8" Mexico, International Collection

Enjoy the holiday!

Great prices on 1990s era Barbies!

Check out these fantastic prices on the 35th Anniversary Barbie (both blonde and brunette), Hallmark Victorian Elegance from 1994 and 1995 (all 10% below retail) and also Avon exclusive Spring Blossoms Barbie from 1995, listed for only $12.

These dolls are all available from Let's Play Dolls. Better yet, you don't have to mess around with eBay and last-minute bidders coming in to swipe your auction.

Image courtesy of Let's Play Dolls.

1968 Vintage Talking Barbie, Brownette

1968 Vintage Talking Barbie, Brownette, originally uploaded by alington.

One of my new additions, she's older than I am. :) Can I just say... I'm smitten?

She's a brownette 1968 Talking Barbie, and yes, she actually talks. I got her nude, and I need to probably find some real vintage clothing for her next--as soon as my budget starts to recover. She's in very nice condition--her face has yellowed a bit, compared to the rest of her body, but her hair and rooted eye lashes (and talking!) distract me so much from this that I just can't help but love her to pieces!

For those of you who haven't been following my budget issues, you can read about them on my blog. Click on Newer Post for the next one. There are three posts about this issue, if you're interested, or if you are currently arguing with your loved one about your dolly dollars. Read through my posts and then you can talk to your significant other and claim, "Look at this girl. I'm not nearly as bad as she is!"

See the rest of this lovely lady's photos on Flickr.

April Doll Meet

April Doll Meet, originally uploaded by alington.

According to our Spring Green and Easter Dress theme, here are several Silkstone Barbies and a Joe Tai doll in front. A Jazz Baby Barbie is wearing Dressed to Thrill (Integrity) in front. Also I believe that's Metal Maven Vanessa in the black and pink cocktail dress in the front row. More photos from this meet are on Flickr.

I love doll meets. Especially when you know the rules of the club in advance, like if children are permitted or not. I prefer clubs with very few rules, which are run more like a get-together of doll enthusiasts who like to sit around and talk dolls for hours. And eat. And drink.

But that's more my style. To each his or her own, I say!

Solo in the Spotlight

Solo in the Spotlight, originally uploaded by alington.

Another eBay find, this is a 1994 repro of Solo in the Spotlight and my second vintage Barbie sculpt doll. I think her face is just wonderful. I also adore her outfit, and the fact that her hair is brunette.

I am not sure that these repros are such a great idea. For one, they have sort of ignited a hidden passion for the original Barbie doll in me that I didn't even know was there. These repros and also seeing original mint Barbie in other collections possibly was an influence. But what a wonderful way to broaden your collection's horizon!

Anemone Barbie pre-sale list is now open

The Anemone Barbie by Christian Louboutin is up on the BarbieCollector.com website. Only 7,700 will be made (2,500 for the BarbieCollector online store), and you will be able to purchase this doll for $150 online. She will also be available from your favorite Barbie dealers, but you probably should pre-order her now, just because she's such a small edition number.

The pre-sale event is April 28, 2010. If you fill out your information online, you will be put on the contact list for the event on April 28.

Glimmer of Gold Barbie

Glimmer of Gold Barbie, originally uploaded by PrinceDonte.

The first Platinum Label™ Barbie Fan Club Exclusive, Glimmer of Gold™ doll will go on sale tomorrow, April 14, 2010 at 9:00 AM PST. The doll was created exclusively for fan club members, and is available at the price of $84.95. Items are limited one per fan club member.

She's dressed in Grecian-style draped ivory cocktail dress embellished with gold embroidery, gold shoes and coordinating purse and earrings. The listing on BarbieCollector states that the fashion is actually designed for Silkstone® dolls, so she must be using a new facial sculpt. I think she's gorgeous. Almost pretty enough to make me join the Barbie Fan Club!

Peaches N Cream

Peaches N Cream, originally uploaded by alington.

I still need to take some real photos of her, but here is a fun silhouette shot of the new 2009 repro Peaches.

I had the original when I was growing up. The repro is not as tan as I remember. Plus, I could have sworn the original Peaches had purple eyes (I bought her when I lived in Germany). I could easily be mistaken.

Even with the differences, this doll is truly gorgeous in her own right, and I don't mind at all that she isn't as tan and has blue eyes and purple eye shadow. LOL! It's almost less embarrassing to my daughters.

Superstar!

Superstar!, originally uploaded by alington.

Another shot of one of my Ebay lot Barbie purchases. She has straight arms, and the blue eyeshadow of the original Superstar Barbie, but her hair is too light, and her arms are straight.

Here she is dressed in Day to Night's bodysuit and Dream Date's convertible skirt with stole.

Dream Date Barbie in Springtime Magic

Dream Date Barbie in Springtime Magic, originally uploaded by alington.

One of my favorite outfits of the 1980s era, Springtime Magic, is being modeled by classic 80s icon, 1982 Dream Date Barbie.

I grew up in Germany, and when I originally owned this outfit, it was actually sole on a dressed doll. Neither the doll nor the outfit is in my collection anymore, unfortunately, but I'm trying to rebuild the collection I once had. Without, of course, digging too deeply in my BJD pocket. It's not going too well, as you might imagine!

At any rate--a lovely outfit, in the spirit of a Easter dress. Happy spring!

Crystal Barbie

Crystal Barbie, originally uploaded by alington.

She was the envy of every girl on our block growing up, and at the risk of sounding dated, I went to one of my formal dances (or a prom) wearing a Jessica McClintock gown with a similar iridescent fabric.

It's Crystal Barbie! I'm nearly 40, and she's finally in my collection! Now, I feel like I have accomplished something.

(I am so just kidding! She is adorable, isn't she?)

Barbie® I Can Be...™ Computer Engineer* Doll - Shop.Mattel.com

Barbie® I Can Be...™ Computer Engineer* Doll - Shop.Mattel.com

The computer engineer Barbie I Can Be... doll is now available for pre-order from Shop.Mattel.com. She's $12.99, and has a shipping date of October 15, 2010. That's a pretty heavy lead-time, but heck, I guess if you're sure you want her...

Enchanted Evening Barbie

Enchanted Evening Barbie, originally uploaded by alington.

This is my very first "vintage sculpt" Barbie. She's from 1995, and a great buy from Ebay, Enchanted Evening. She was also available as a brunette.

You can see more photos of her on Flickr, including her see-through sparkling "glass" slippers.