Doll News 2/28/0

Master Collector's visit to Toy Fair was a huge success. There are so many great dolls on the way for 2001 that will make collectors very happy campers. Make sure to check in with us weekly for updates on all the new releases of your favorites.

 
One of the 2001 collections that really wowed us this year is Robert Tonner's Tyler Wentworth line. After seeing preview photos, I was prepared for a fantastic showing, but it far exceeded expectations. The new dolls and ensembles set a new benchmark for quality, interesting fabrics, innovative design and are just plain fabulous. By the way, eToys.com has blonde Tyler Signature Style dolls reduced 40% to $47.99. Also check out Enchanted Attic's Gene sale.
Trent Osborn, the new male companion doll to Mel Odom's Gene was another Toy Fair highlight. He was due out in March. Word from Ashton-Drake is that the release is being postponed till summer. Ashton-Drake is releasing a full line of costumes for him as well as full collections for their Gene and Madra dolls. The sense of humor that that sparked the initial Gene and Madra collections is back in full force this time out. And as usual, lots to choose from. The new "Simply Gene" will have articulated elbows as well as knees and waist.

Madame Alexander's Alex and Cissy continue their reign in the fashion doll world. The addition of a stunning new African American friend of Alex really adds to the line. The "Santa Baby" holiday gift set not only comes with a dressed doll and tons of holiday party accessories.it also includes a room setting with a fireplace! The Cissy dolls shown this year were just exquisite. I particularly loved the "Day in the Life of Cissy" trunk set.
Mattel's Fashion Model Barbie collection for 2001 continues the excellence created last year with the introduction of this highly collectible series of dolls and outfits. The black haired basic lingerie model is on the top of many collectors' doll lists already. The new finely detailed ensembles are evocative of the "vintage" quality that Barbie doll collectors really appreciate. "Boulevard" borrows from the vintage classic "Gold N Glamour" and updates it. "Blush Becomes Her" echoes "Gay Parisienne" in its profile and workmanship. I was told that there will be another doll in the popular Collector's Request series this year, but that's all our press rep would tell us.
     

In the Barbie doll play line, the Nutcracker series dolls look wonderful and the line is backed by a feature film release. The Tommy Gingerbread Man is a gotta get. Those who remember Ideal's 1970s Tuesday Taylor will get a kick out of the "Jam Œn Glam" Barbie and friends dolls. They have a rotating scalp that allows the doll to have two colors of hair. This is real flashback fun. And finally, fans of Barbie structures will want to add the huge "Grand Hotel" to their dolls' real estate dynasties.
Whoever is doing Mattel's celebrity head sculpts is a miracle worker. The Cher and Vivian Leigh dolls look absolutely alive.
    

 

 

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