Mod Barbie Firelights fashion #1481

Barbie's Firelights fashion was on the market from 1969-1970. It consists of a paisley print evening pajamas with metallic braid trim and blue open-toe shoes. It can be quite difficult to find this jumpsuit in nice shape so if you locate one, snatch it up!

Angelic Dreamz Independence Day sale

Save 15% off all in-stock inventory (excluding JAMIEshow, pre-orders and special orders), plus free shipping on all orders over $75 at Angelic Dreamz. Valid today through July 4, 2011 only.

JAMIEshow will be debuting their newest sculpt, Grace, at IFDC next week. I can't wait to meet her!

Red, White & Blue sale at Tonner Direct

Antoinette Picturesque, in stock now

Use promo code JULY4 at checkout to receive 20% off your entire order and get free shipping (within the continental US only) at TonnerDirect.com.

Offer applies to in-stock items only, and expires Tuesday, July 5, 2011.

Dreamcastle Dolls July 4th sale!

Save 20% off any in stock Tonner or Horseman items (including furniture!) from Dreamcastle Dolls! Save 10% off any item on the Splits or Consignment Corner pages.

Email your order and use the code Freedom Rules!

Shipping is extra, and for this promotion, no holds or layaway. Offer expires Monday, July 4, at midnight.

Save 20% from the Mattel Store

Ghoulia by alington

Save 20% on everything at Mattel.com! Nothing is excluded. The 20% discount will be applied at checkout, and the offer expires at 11:59 PM on July 5, 2011.

Might I suggest:

• Barbie items--play line and collectible, including the new I Can Be...™ Architect doll. She even includes a miniature house!
• Monster High - including older dolls, Gloom Beach and Scream uniforms
• Disney dolls for the princess in you
• Rapunzel items

We're on Amazon!

We're on Amazon! Yay! For some of you, it may be cheaper to purchase our new book through Amazon.com than through my eStore. The Look Inside feature isn't up and running yet, but I'll let you know as soon as it's available.

Remember, the eStore code EXB3X2RR expires tomorrow, June 30, 2011 at midnight! Through then, you can save $10 off the $35 retail price!

Vintage Barbie knit top

This is Barbie's PAK knit top, available in 1963 in gold, blue, and multicolor stripes. There is a roll collar and a V back. This PAK also contained white sunglasses with blue lenses and a gold-tone charm bracelet. The striped version of this top was also issued in Barbie's Knit Separates in 1964 and a gold top in her 1964 Golden Evening fashion. These tops are great min-n-match separates and are very easy to find. Mint condition, loose, about $10.

Vintage Barbie fashion #944, Masquerade

Here is Barbie's Masquerade fashion from 1963-1964. It coordinates with Skipper and Ken's Masquerade fashions. It includes:

• black and yellow costume with tulle fringe and ribbon ties. Snaps in the back. This is where the Barbie tag is located.
• black pantyhose
• paper invitation
• yellow and black felt hat with elastic chin-strap
• mask
• black open-toe shoes with yellow poms

When purchasing this fashion look for pantyhose with no runs and good waist elastic. Also check the elastic on the hat and mask. If the elastics are too stretched they will not stay on the doll. The cost of this fashion near mint and complete (loose) is about $95.

Poppy Parker - in Carol Peters!

Portrait in Black Poppy Parker in a OOAK outfit by Carol Peters.

Another fun photo shoot from the doll meet yesterday, Portrait in Black Poppy Parker got to try on a brand new outfit. This doll belongs to Valerie, one of our contributors, who is desperately trying to get ready for IFDC. (As I am, though I was too excited not to share photos of this lovely outfit!)

Val had asked Carol Peters, another long-time member of the doll club, to make her a dress from this pre-pleated watercolor fabric, thinking it would be a great mod-era dress. Sure enough, it's perfect!

Carol thought Poppy needed something more, too, so she also added:

• A turquoise coat, with a closure at the neck, lined in hot pink
• A matching purse, with a beaded handle and beaded trim
• A hairband with an oversized bow

Poppy looks absolutely adorable in this outfit! You can see more photos on Flickr.

I'm trying to convince Carol to create some addition one-of-a-kind works and sell them. What sizes would you like to see?

I can't wait to show you what she created for my SD-sized Yeru!

Dynamite Girls: Downtown Darling Jett

Thanks to my one of my doll club meets on Sunday, I got to see Carolyn's brand new Dynamite Girl, Downtown Darling Jett, from the Plastic Inevitable collection yesterday. I took a few photos of her, and you can check out the rest (and larger sizes) on Flickr.

I have this doll on order--I think mine is on its way via UPS ground--and I'm really excited. I pre-ordered her because I adore her overall look. She looks like a 1980s era Madonna wanna-be. In fact, the entire Plastic Inevitable collection looks 80s-inspired to me.

I know there was a little fuss about the price increase of the Dynamite Girls line--okay, a lot of fuss about the price increases of the entire Integrity Toys collection, if I'm going to be precise. I'm sure some of the increase was due to the performance of the dollar, the overseas production costs, and marketing strategy. But I'm going to go out on a limb and say that, in the case of the Dynamite Girls at least, I'm willing to pay it.

Compared to the 2010 collection--the basic dolls (Vintage Vinyl) were $40 and the limited edition (Chill Factor) $54.99 retail--this year the dolls have increased by $5 each: basics (Check Mate) retail at $44.99 and Plastic Inevitable are $59.99.

After seeing Downtown Darling in person, her quality is very good. She includes a multi-stand necklace and hoop earrings, a distressed denim skirt, hose, bustier, and jacket. Jett's facial screening, usually quite cartoony, is much more detailed than in past editions. This is fun and gorgeous doll--high quality, yet playable and still affordable.

I would pay an extra $5 just for the stand included with Jett. It's a new style with two holes, so you can display two dolls on a single stand if you wish. You have the option of a saddle style or a waist gripper, which screws onto the metal stand, which fits onto the base. It's sturdier. Plus, being able to display two dolls on a single stand is really going to de-clutter my display. I can't wait!

Compared to what else is on the market in the $45-60 range, I don't think you'll find many other 11-12" doll with this much articulation, this quality of clothing and accessories, and this type of versatility. They appeal to box-collectors and redressers (they are so easy to dress!) alike, and they are definitely affordable.

My one problem with this line is the edition size. Each doll was made in an edition of 300. Especially for the premier of boys to the Dynamite Girls line, 300 is not enough. In fact, I did a search on eBay this morning, and I saw three Auden dolls listed for between $450 and $550. That is simply crazy. And OMG--they are actually selling with an average price of $370. Congratulations to those of you making that kind of return on your purchases!

Steffie of the day: Lights 'n Lace Teresa

1991 Lights 'N Lace Teresa, a photo by alington on Flickr.

From 1991, Light 'n Lace Teresa fits the early 90s era. She's dressed in opalescent glittered turquoise lace with purple trim, complete with a wrap, oversized hair bow, giant earrings, cowboy boots with lace garters, and a flashing buckle.

Her hair speaks for itself: the wall of bangs and poof just got bigger and bigger throughout the 1980s, and in 1991, the year of my prom, we did just about everything we could to get our hair B-I-G.

Ah. Those were the days. I sure don't miss them.

But isn't Teresa's face just adorable?

See more photos (of her outfit) on Flickr.

Secret of the Three Teardrops

Secret of the Three Teardrops, a photo by alington on Flickr.

Secret of the Three Teardrops Barbie is a 1999 doll that was made to go along with a Grolier children's book of the same name. I was able to pick up the NRFB book and doll for $15, including shipping, from eBay.

If you like historically dressed dolls, she's a good buy. She isn't a great quality, but she's very pretty.

Check out her simple yet elegant facial screening and gorgeous platinum updo. While her dress closes with velcro and is made from stiff, cheap fabric, it's cut and styled well, and it's fashioned in Rococo style. She even includes cream-colored ivory period-style slippers, similar to the pink Wedgewood doll.

I think she's a cute collectible doll. Plus, if you're looking for a French Revolutionary Barbie head, she might be perfect for a OOAK Marie Antoinette! More photos on Flickr.

Send me to IFDC!

Let me just apologize in advance - I'm sorry.

I'm sorry for making a sob-story sales post. The thing is, I -really- want to go to IFDC this year!

So I've been collecting BJDs for about a year now, but couldn't really tack down what was my favorite. I have recently discovered that it seems like SD is the size for me. As a result, I am parting with my adorable LittleFee Luna (Yo-SD size).

Here are some more pictures of this little sweety:









I am asking $425 for this little lady, and she will come with everything pictured, in addition to her original box and paperwork.

If you have any further questions, or are interested, please let me know at melissa.metheney@gmail.com

Here's hoping to a fun Vegas trip! ^^;

Patterns for download and for sale

The Adams-Harris Pattern Company offers a wide variety of doll patterns for sale--sized for large, mini and tiny BJDs, Marley, Kish, Tyler, Antoinette, Ellowyne, and American Model--at reasonable prices for your home use or for resale purposes.

This site was only recently brought to my attention, and I have to say, while I'm not personally a sewer, I am really impressed by the variety of sizes and patterns available.

There is also a portion of the website that offers a free section of clothing and accessory patterns for a variety of doll sizes, including an SD-sized 1790s era shoe. I read the instructions, and it looks really well-done and easy-to-use. Please check out the website, and support it!

Mod Barbie Ski Scene fashion #1797

Mod Barbie's Ski fashion hit the scene in 1970. It consists of a jacket (contains the Barbie tag), sweater, pants, hat, skis, poles, boots, and goggles. Barbie was sure not to be missed in these bright orange colors. This fashion looks great on a mod doll displayed next to Barbie's mountain ski cabin case (one of my favorites). All of these pieces are relatively easy to find. Check the skis and poles for melt marks and the vinyl pieces for stiffness. It's nice when the vinyl is still supple-it will be easier to get on the doll.

Ball-Jointed Dolls for Beginners: it's published!

BJDs for Beginners, a photo by alington on Flickr.

Hooray! It's finished, and ready to be ordered!

You can order directly through the website here and have it shipped directly to you.

The listed retail price is $35, but use the code EXB3X2RR (upon checkout) for a special $10.00 off, valid only through the end of this month!

If you have any problems, please let me know. This title is for sale in the US and internationally. If you will be attending IFDC in Las Vegas, I will have these books for sale as well.

Also, I'm officially inviting you to the book's coordinating blog, BJDs for Beginners, which includes active links to all the reference sources I've used in the book, plus additional tidbits of information I've used. Please follow our new blog--we'd love to have you!

You can download a rather large Preview here.

Vintage Barbie shoe PAK

This package of vintage Barbie shoes was available in 1963 and called "shoe pak" and again from 1964-1965 named "shoe wardrobe". The PAK consists of pink, orange, white, brown, green, mustard yellow, red, royal blue, black, and clear with gold glitter open-toe shoes. It also contains blue and gold wedge shoes.

Most of these shoes are relatively easy-to-find loose for $15 or less. The exception is the clear with gold glitter shoes which are difficult to find, especially without splits. When shopping for these shoes check to make sure you have a true pair of open-toes: one is marked Japan and the other unmarked. Also check the straps carefully for splits. The wedge shoes are unmarked.

Steffie of the day: Free Moving PJ

Free Moving PJ, a photo by alington on Flickr.

Nope, she isn't perfect. In fact, she needs one of her eyes and her brows repainted.

But she's got most of her original outfit (she's missing her shoes), and she has her original body. Like many of these dolls, it's stuck in the "free moving" state, so she's hard to pose, and the seller forgot to mention that one of her legs is glued on.

But she's very cute, just the same. I love this PJ!

Vintage Barbie fashion #937, Sorority Meeting

Barbie's Sorority Meeting fashion was on the market from 1962-1963. It coordinates with Ken's Fraternity Date fashion. It includes:

• cocoa colored sleeveless sheath with back snaps
• sweater vest. This is where the Barbie tag is located.
• faux pearl necklace and earrings
• brown open-toe shoes
• felt pillbox hat

This ensemble looks great on a titian Midge doll. The sheath and hat are very easy to find, the sweater vest almost always is found with holes so check it carefully before buying.

Steffie of the Day: Sun Gold Malibu PJ

Sun Gold Malibu PJ, a photo by alington on Flickr.

From 1983, this is one of my favorite pink box PJ dolls, Sun Gold Malibu PJ. She still has her glass tied to her hair (and yes, they are mirrored).

I've rinsed and restyled her hair--it sometimes gets a little greasy and stringy in the box. But I think her light pink lips and her gorgeous green eyes really make her stand out in a beautiful way.

Sun Lovin' Malibu Christie

Sun Lovin' Malibu Christie, a photo by alington on Flickr.

From 1981, another Steffie doll, Sun Lovin' Mailbu Christie. All the dolls from the Sun Lovin' collection have tan lines under their suits. (Even Ken, I wonder? Like the Coppertone girl?)

At any rate, I've been having my own little love affair over here with Steffie-faced Christies of late, and I just had to share them with you. ;)

Fashion Play Barbie

Fashion Play Barbie, a photo by alington on Flickr.

From 1991, this is actually one of the harder-to-find pink box Steffie dolls. She's a Fashion Play Barbie, the brunette or "Hispanic" version. As you can see, her original purchase price from Phar-Mor was $4.47. If you can find this doll in the $20 range, consider yourself lucky! (I certainly do!)

The trick to finding these Fashion Play and Special Expressions dolls in NRFB condition (if you're wanting Steffie) is to look for Buy-It-Now new listings on eBay from sellers who don't realize that they've got a Steffie. Also try antique shops and other Barbie dealers, who might just happen to have some of these dolls on hand. Be aware that there are some versions of these dolls out there that are also the Hispanic or Teresa sculpt.

I realized yesterday that after posting that Steffie list, I've probably made my own search for these dolls a little harder. So... have I? Do I have any competition out there?

That being said--I'm going to post a little WTB: I'm looking for a VG to EX condition Talking Busy Steffie. It's OK if she's mute. Let me know if you have one to sell! Have a great weekend. And be good to your dads tomorrow.

Mod Barbie fashion #1476, Dream Wrap

Barbie's Dream Wrap fashion was on the market from 1969-1970. It consists of:

• pink cotton robe with lace trim and floral print. Ties with satin ribbon. The Barbie tag is located here.
• matching panties
• pink felt slippers with or without white floral applique

This is a very affordable fashion at about $50 near mint and complete.

More items listed for sale on eBay and the DollPage

Check out my latest listings for sale on eBay and the DollPage. Free shipping for the items listed on eBay, and I have a gorgeous SD-sized resin Asian BJD for sale on the DollPage, Morphoa, with a OOAK face-up by Leah Lilly.

Feel free to ask me any questions! I ship internationally, too.

You can see Morphoa's full listing on Den of Angels, if you're a member and have Marketplace privileges on that board.

Before and after: personalizing a doll display case

Before: gold lining and all.

I inherited this glass display case from my friend, Alison (aka Alington) several months ago, probably because she switched over to 6-foot-tall IKEA bookcases to house her ever-growing doll collection. Luckily, I'm a little sister and I learned early in life the beauty of hand-me-downs!

Shipping schedule update from Tonner Doll Company

The following items have had their shipping dates confirmed and updated, according to Tonner's shipping schedule. For a complete list, check out this link.

Arrived:
Hollywood Glamour

• Hearts Ablaze
• Stardust

Cami & Jon

• West-Side Red Wig
• 2011 Cami Wigged Basic

DeeAnna Denton

• Bye-Bye Baby

Alice in Wonderland

• Futterwacken

Miss Piggy

• Wild Frogs

Gowns by Anne Harper

• James Collins

Updated:

American Model Collection

• Black Suede Boots - end of June
• White Mesh Ankle Boots - end of June
• Black Buckle Boots - end of June
• Brown Buckle Boots - end of June
• Black Mary Janes - end of June
• Black Knee-High Boots - middle of July
• Purple Knee-High Boots - end of June
• White Chiffon Blouse - middle of July
• Chiffon Peasant Blouse - end of June
• Lace-Up Corset - end of June
• Tiered Lace Skirt - end of June
• Lace-Up Trumpet Skirt - middle of July
• Shirred Pants - end of June
• Velvet Burn-Out Coat - middle of July

DC Stars

• 13" Catwoman - end of June
• Starfire - middle of June

Disney

• 10" India - middle of July

Antoinette

• Picturesque - middle of June
• Sweeping - middle of July (eeeeeeeeek!)
• Bold - middle of July

Gone with the Wind

• Strength from Tara - middle of June

Gowns by Anne Harper

• Merli Stemple - middle of July

Harry Potter

• Fleur Delacour - end of June

Freedom for Fashion

• Basic Aiko - middle of June
• Basic Yoshio - middle of June
• Sori Aiko - middle of July
• Hogyo Yoshio - middle of July

Theatre de la Mode

• Noir #99 - end of June (so excited!)

Twilight

• Jasper Hale - end of June

Tyler Wentworth

• Signature Statement Tyler Wentworth - middle of June
• So Sleek Sydney Chase - middle of July

Vintage Barbie PAK knit skirt

Barbie's full knit skirts were available as a PAK item in 1963 in blue, gold, and a striped pattern. The skirts are covered with gold glitter and tie in the back with snaps. A gold version was included in the 1964 ensemble Golden Evening. No accessories accompanied this PAK item. Near mint examples of these skirts can be found for about $20. Look for a skirt which retains some of it's original glitter.

Vintage Barbie fashion #1610, Golden Evening

This is Barbie's Golden Evening fashion, available in 1964. Two of the pieces (the skirt and top) were also sold separately as PAK pieces. The fashion includes:

• knit blouse. The Barbie tag can be found here.
• knit skirt. As you can see in this NRFB example there is a ton of glitter which is often missing on played-with skirts. There are two snaps in the back.
• gold dimple belt
• charm bracelet
• mustard colored open-toe shoes

All these pieces, with the exception of the charm bracelet, are relatively easy to find. The knit pieces in excellent to near mint condition can be found for $10-$20.

New items available for sale at Peak's Woods!

FOB Wig P-06

New wigs and head parts are now available from Peak's Woods. Heat-resistant fiber and in every size--for Fairies of Color (size 8-9"), Fairies of Bugs (7-7.5"), and Fairies of Fairytales (6-7"), these wonderful wigs are a terrific addition to their offerings. There are browns, chestnuts, varying shades of blondes, to gray, charcoal and black, in addition to pink, salmon and teal. Prices on the new items stay at the $27 mark.

Additionally, Wake-Up Romantic Lady Bee Elf's antenna are also now available separately for purchase. For $20, you can add the magnets on to any doll's head cap, and attach the adorable antenna on to the doll of your choice. They will be removable, as well.

I'm hoping Peak's Woods will hurry up and announce the tan version of their doll soon, or I'll be about to break down and order a Wake-Up Lady Bee and a Vampire Hucky. Eeek!

Wilde Imagination introduces Amelia Thimble - and a free shipping code

Amelia Thimble, Photo property of Wilde Imagination

Wilde Imagination has released a brand new 4" tall doll, Amelia Thimble. Although her introductory giftset is already sold out (her puppy "Rags" is still available), they promise more in the Amelia Thimble line towards the end of the the summer. In the meantime, check out her cute promo photos at Wilde Imagination's website.

Dorothy, Photo property of Wilde Imagination

 If you're a Wizard of Oz fan, check out Wilde Imagination's Dorothy, Glinda and Wicked Witch of the West - all three are on sale for $84 each (regularly priced at $139-149 each) or $235 for the set. (This sale includes free shipping, without a promo code.)
 
Also, get free shipping on any order of $75 or more by using Promo Code WILDE04 when you checkout. (International customers can use Promo Code WILDE04INT to save $9.95 instead.) This offer ends at midnight (EST) on June 24, 2011.

More items for sale on the DollPage and Den of Angels...

Leekeworld Tiny hybrid doll, face-up by Overnight Flight

Check out my latest listings for BJDs on Den of Angels and the DollPage (if you're not a member on DoA).

I've listed Morphoa, a Dollzone SD-sized girl, with a OOAK face-up by Leah Lilly for sale, including her outfit, in addition to a hybrid Tiny BJD (who stands about 13" tall).

Let me know if you have any questions, and happy shopping!

Ball-Jointed Dolls for Beginners, update!

My new book cover preview--click to enlarge!

It's finished, I hope! I just ordered a copy of the corrected proof--hopefully the last--which should arrive on Tuesday next week. If this one is all in order, I should be able to approve the book for sale. I'll keep you all posted of the progress.

The book will be for sale here on my website and also on Amazon. Plus, I will have it available at IFDC, the convention in Las Vegas, if you'd like to save on shipping. I'm also looking for a few dealers to carry it as well.

Whew!

Prices lowered on eBay auctions...

I've lowered a few of the prices on my current eBay listings--both on the opening bids and the Buy-It-Now prices. Come check out what I've got to offer this week.

The auctions close on Sunday, and all of them include free priority shipping with insurance within the contiguous US. (I also ship overseas, at actual cost.)

Thanks for looking!

New items released at Peak's Woods!

Wedding outfit by Peak's Woods.

Peak's Woods has made four new blank heads available separately. Face-ups are an additional $60.

• Wake-Up Lottie $150
• Lavin $150
• Wake-Up Lady Bee_Romantic Elf $120
• Vampire Hucky $100

A boy version (make-up style) of Naomi has been released. You can see his make-up style with the girl version.

And there is a new dress for the Fairy of Color dolls (about SD13 size) called Wedding available now, for $99.

Photos property of Peak's Woods.

Naomi Fairy of Fairytales, by Peak's Woods.

Vintage Barbie PAK cardigan

Barbie's PAK cardigan was available on the market from 1962-1963 and was available in blue, black, white, and pink. The blue version is the same sweater found in Mood for Music. Earlier versions, which are harder to find have knit-in bands and later versions have sewn-in bands. When shopping for vintage Barbie sweaters, inspect them carefully for holes. It will be easier to get this sweater on Barbie if you cover her hands first with gloves or a small piece of  Saran Wrap. Near mint examples can be found for about $35.

New auctions on eBay

Check out my latest eBay auctions if you get a chance... help me raise some much-needed funds for IFDC!

More listings will come this afternoon as well. Enjoy!

Superfrock's Geometry goes on sale tomorrow

Geometry - Photo property of Superfrock.

Tomorrow, Wednesday, June 8, 2011, Superfrock will be positing another doll from the Colorvision collection on its website: Geometry.

Additionally, a new pair of heels, Picnic Magnet, will also be offered. Check them out tomorrow!

Avid Baker's Challenge: ABC Bakers' Link for June 2011

Avid Baker's Challenge: ABC Bakers' Link for June 2011

Comment Etiquette

This is a rather serious debate I just got into with a friend of mine, on the subject of comment etiquette.

I am of the realization that not everyone likes the same dolls I do – which is fine, because if everyone liked the same things, the world would be a dull place. I suppose, however, that it would make things a lot easier for the doll manufacturers!

Most doll collectors these days gather online to chat with one another and show off their darlings, on boards and forums, such as Prego, Riley Hugs and Kishes, MEF Forum, Zone of Zen, Den of Angels and many other such internet gathering places. Some boards specialize in a specific doll or type of doll, such as Den of Angels, which is dedicated to BJD enthusiasts, or The Studio Commissary, which is dedicated to Gene Marshall and her friends.

Doll boards and forums are frequented by doll collectors, most of whom are very kind, well-mannered and generous folks. There are moderators, however, who keep an eye on things, to make sure the board experience remains a pleasant one. Scammers or unpleasant types are blocked from cheating the other members or causing trouble.

But the debate with my friend started with regards to comment etiquette. As mentioned, not everyone collects or likes the same kinds of dolls – and there are a lot of dolls waiting to join someone’s collection.

That said, when going through the posts on a board, looking at the messages and the images posted by other users, the etiquette question comes up – how do you comment?

Lately, I have been a lurker on the boards I belong to, because I don’t really have anything to say. There have also been times when I haven’t taken any new pictures of my dolls that I feel are particularly noteworthy enough to post on a board or forum.

However, since I am a member of these boards and forums, does this mean I am obligated to comment, just because I happen to be there? If I dislike a particular doll, do I say something anyway to the person posting it?

My friend and I were debating about a particular doll I have taken a fancy to, that does not find favor with him. That the promotional pictures are not overly flattering does not help. I tried again, posting real life pictures from another friend who has the doll, and is a more skilled photographer than I am, and my friend who dislikes the doll made further comment that he did not like her.

I said that was fine, I knew the doll wasn’t for everyone, and if or when I got her, I would not post pictures of her. He said that I should post pictures, and he would say something nice about the doll.

This is where I am confused – I don’t comment on each and every post on the boards and forums I belong to, because I would get nothing else done during the course of a day. And sometimes, frankly, I dislike the doll or dolls the other collector has posted. On the larger forums, this is easy to avoid doing, since there are so many other members that what I might have to add is superfluous anyway.

Then, too, if a comment in response is negative, such as, “I dislike that doll,” or “the clothing is unattractive,” or any other negative thing that might be brought to bear about the post, the original poster, in some cases, is offended, and responds in an unkindly fashion. Sometimes, the other commenters will also chime in. Flame wars have started in this fashion, and sometimes, the moderators have to close the thread or even remove it from the board. I have started a few controversies, however inadvertently, and I know others who are smarting from the flames they received from upset posters.

So, does this mean the only thing we can post are accolades about whatever it is that takes a person’s fancy to post on a board or forum? I have made it a policy, at least on the smaller board and forums I belong to, which only have a few members, to try to comment on all the postings, because with the smaller communities, it is hard to avoid commenting about a post or posts. The few people there know you have not said anything, and wonder what is going on.

In that case, I try to comment on things about a photo or photos that I did like, such as congratulating someone on acquiring a much desired doll, how well the photo is focused, the surroundings – anything but say, “I hate your doll, but I love everything else about the photo.”

Technically, we are in a country where the freedom of speech is guaranteed by the Constitution. We should be able to say whatever we like, but we are bound by cultural restrictions and expectations – religious beliefs, politeness, awareness of hate or racist speech and so on and so forth, influence what we say, not only to one another’s face, but also to our fellows on the internet. At least, if we are wise, we remember to be polite.

But I still wonder, just because someone posts a message and pictures on a board or forum are we truly are obligated to not only comment, but comment positively? For myself, I would appreciate someone commenting in a positive fashion about a message and pictures I have taken because they truly enjoy what I have posted, rather than feel obligated to say something nice, especially if they dislike the doll.

Steffie of the day

Miss America, a photo by alington on Flickr.

I just never seem to tire of Mattel's Steffie sculpt. One of the earlier version is this Walk Lively Miss America Doll. She still has the original cellophane wrapper on her head, which, believe it or not, I haven't removed. (It's very tempting, though!)

I was looking through other dolls in my collection--meaning, my Integrity, Tonner and BJD girls--and I was noticing something: They all have kissy or pouty lips--at least, the dolls that tend to stay in my collection do. Isn't that funny?

And even weirder, I like Integrity's new Vanessa sculpt. Oh my god! She must have the world's biggest lips.

Just kidding--about the god part, that is. I do like her. I can't wait to see her in person. I mean, in doll. Or however you're supposed to say that. Long day over here--last week of school! Hooray!

Vintage Barbie fashion #947, Bride's Dream

This is the most common of several vintage Barbie bridal fashions, Bride's Dream. It was available from 1963-1965. It consists of:

• white satin, short-sleeved wedding gown. There is a ribbon bow in the front and snaps in the back. The Barbie tag is located in the bodice.
• white open-toe shoes
• bouquet: this is the same bouquet as Wedding Day Set
• faux pearl necklace
• long white gloves
• blue garter
• tulle veil with faux pearl headpiece

When searching for this fashion try to find a gown that is still clean and look carefully in the veil for holes. This ensemble near mint and complete sells for about $155.

Ma-ma-ma-ma...

Lavin, a photo by alington on Flickr.

Just kidding! We can totally read Lavin's Poker Face: sweet! In that respect, maybe too sweet for Lady GaGa, but the doll sure is cute.

Isn't her new wig simply fabulous? It's a newly released wig by DollHeart (also available in a short style) for your SD-sized girls.

Lavin is a Peak's Woods resin BJD, currently wearing honey-colored glass eyes by Mint on Card. She is dressed in a limited edition outfit by DollHeart called Vampire Wedding.

Save 20% off in-stock items at Dreamcastle Dolls

Save 20% off the retail price of any regular item at Dreamcastle Dolls. The discount applies to in-stock furniture, clothing, and dolls in their original state.  For doll and outfit splits or consignment items, take 10% off the listed sale price.

Email your order and mention SUMMER FUN as the promotion code. Offer excludes Princess in Disguise, Voyage of Wonder and DC Stars, as they have the maximum discount already. No layaways for this promotion.

Dreamcastle currently has furniture by Urban Vita (sized for 16" dolls) in stock, Tonner dolls and fashions, and Tonner character figures and fashions.

New reference book for vintage Barbie collectors

Here is a much-needed reference for vintage Barbie collectors: It's All About the Accessories for the World's Most Fashionable Dolls by Hillary James. In this over 350 page book Hillary lists every vintage Barbie and family accessory available from 1959-1972. Fashion completers are listed by category and include a full color photo. Next to each photo is a list of all the fashions the accessory can be found with and current market value. Categories include jewelry, gloves, hats, luggage and bags, cummerbunds, belts, kitchen, toiletries, sports, telephones, hair ornaments, just for fun, books and paper, skis, jobs, trophies and awards, scarfs and boas, travel costumes, little theatre, glasses, ties, corsages and emblems, muffs, umbrellas, pets, weddings, and shoes. Whew! This is an exhaustive reference that I highly recommend. I LOVE this book. It is available on Amazon, Ebay, and from many doll dealers for $35-$45. Hardcover. 352 pages.

Mod Barbie fashion #1463, Lovely Sleep-Ins

Barbie's Lovely Sleep-Ins was on the market in 1970. This is one of my top ten mod Barbie outfits. You can see Mary Tyler Moore wearing an ensemble very close to this on the Dick Van Dyke show episode entitled "I'd rather be bald than have no head at all" (Season 3, episode 30). The fashion includes:

• pink nylon nightgown
• pink nylon robe with floral pattern. The Barbie tag is located here.
• fuzzy plush slippers

You can find this Barbie fashion near mint and complete for about $60. So pink, so Barbie....

Peak's Woods of the day: Cue

Happy Friday, dear readers. To celebrate, a quick photo of Cue, by Peak's Woods. This is the open-eye version and one of the company's original sculpts. I think she is adorable--very wide (20 mm) eyes, in this case, purple glass--and a one-of-a-kind face-up, using pinks. I just love her little pointy chin.

I actually just made a fantastic trade of this doll yesterday. What did I receive in trade? Well, you'll have to wait to find out, since I haven't taken photos yet, and I'm on my way out the door. 

In the meantime, have a lovely day!