Corinne and Gwynn, AG GOTY2022
Dec. 27th, 2021 05:14 am![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
impySo Corinne (I keep wanting to type Corrine or Corrinne, why?) and Gwynn are sorta on the AG site already. It's looking like we'll maybe get a mini-preorder window starting tomorrow (12/27) and they'll officially, maybe, go on sale the 30th? But pricing and pics are more than enough for me to set up the basic structure of our annual GOTY blather, right?
Sure, why not.
eta: Okay, things could change because AG's site isn't the best but since I fell asleep since starting things, we've now landed in 12/27. Looks like you can preorder Corinne and her accessories HERE through the 29th and then on the 30th you get the annual GMA reveal. If you click on any of the other links, you get a message that says
You’re early!
Come back on Thursday, 12/30/2021 for something new on www.americangirl.com. So maybe they'll open up orders then, or maybe it'll just be kind of a "look at what's coming in two days!" thing. Dunno.
I will say that had they put more than just Corinne up for preorder, I probably would've caved. I'm holding out hope that the bundles, which aren't showing ANY savings (not even the buy a doll and her accessories and get $5 off) will update to be a smidge cheaper. Truthfully not sure if they really do bundle savings anymore though. Anyway, on with the show.
As you might have heard, this year we get TWO Girls of the Year. Sisters Corinne and Gwynn Tan are Chinese American kids living in Colorado and if you take a shot each time you see something referencing mountains or Colorado in their collection, you will maybe not die but you'll probably be feeling either no pain or a lot of pain depending on your shot of choice. The assholes are out in fullforce and have been since pics from a survey began circulating. Here is a safe space to comment in whatever way you like because like, all two of you are awesome. :D
We begin with Corinne:
Corinne Girl of the Year 2022 // $110
Item#HCM92
When the powder’s fresh, Corinne snaps on her skis and takes a deep breath of crisp mountain air. She and her sister, Gwynn, have always called Aspen home, but moving in with their new stepdad changes everything. One good change is Corinne’s new puppy named Flurry that she’s training to do search-and-rescue.
The 18” Corinne™ doll has brown eyes and long, straight black hair with turquoise layers that can be brushed and styled
A white cable-knit mock turtleneck sweater
A pair of iridescent purple leggings with an elastic waist
A pair of white cotton underwear
A pair of blue boots with faux-fur trim to tromp in the snow
The Corinne paperback book
Since we're flying without descriptions right now, we'll just go on pics and guesses. I'm guessing she and Gwynn use the golden skin tone? Or maybe AG failtography strikes again. I'm also still guessing Corinne's mold is a modified Nanea mold with Jess's eyes, sorta like Joss is Classic and Josefina.
I think Corinne is adorable and I love her hair and yes, we've talked about this before. But I really love her hairstyle, too. I kind of wish her sweater wasn't velcro up the back but with the hairstyle, I get it. I... don't love the boots as much as I thought I would. I might love them in person and I don't dislike them, it's just I was prepped for hearteyes and this is more... don't like the darker teal with that shade of purple maybe? Eh. It tickles me that the boots match the hair, though.
Corinne's Accessories // $35
Item#HCM93
Corinne is lucky because she can walk right from school to ski at Ajax Mountain. This set has all the accessories she needs for an afternoon of skiing:
A pink knit hat with a pink pom-pom on top
A pair of blue sunglasses with ombre lenses to block out the glare from the snow
A pair of pink knit legwarmers
A circle-shaped, blue-tinted clear vinyl backpack with sparkly stars on the front and a zipper closure
A pretend ski pass to give her access to the slopes
THAT BAG. I see we're continuing the tradition of the GOTY accessories involving a really cute bag, huh? No clue as to how off the scale is on the pass (seems off) and I dislike the sunnies on Corinne, but I like the hat and leg warmers sooooooo... overpriced but that bag is going to get me, isn't it?
Corinne's Casual Outfit // $34
Item#HCN04
When she’s hanging out with her best friend, Cassidy, or cheering Gwynn on at the rink, Corinne shows off her mountain style in this outfit that includes:
A purple faux-fur coat with a snuggly stand-up collar
A pale blue short-sleeved tee with a graphic of snow-capped mountains
A pair of multicolored print leggings with an elastic waist
A white fleece headband
A pair of white iridescent pull-on boots
Hate how this is styled, love the pieces. Corinne killed a muppet, the shirt is cute, love the leggings, and while the boots aren't perfection like Luci's, they're like the winter ski version of those so yes, I'll make it work. But all together not a look I love. Maybe I just don't like the headband? I think it does weird things to her head, but it could also be because it wipes out her ears and I don't really like that look on anyone.
Corinne's Ice Skating Accessories // $24
Item#HCN05
Even though she’s not taking lessons like her sister Gwynn, Corinne still likes to spend some time at the rink. She’s all set to skate with this set that includes:
A white fleece pull-through scarf to stay warm while she skates
A pair of white mittens with purple graphic accents
A pair of blue ice skates with real metal blades
A pair of hot-pink removable skate guards to protect the blades off the ice
AG. AG, c'mon now. AG, that scarf is absolute garbage and you know it. GARBAGE. At first I was kind of pleasantly surprised by the price and then I noticed how the scarf actually goes on and how it looks and now it's all I can see and if I must suffer, so must you. Those mittens are adorable and I want them, but I don't think I can bring myself to bring that trash scarf wannabe into this home. I also probably do not need yet another pair of doll iceskates. AG. No. Bad doll company. No cookies for you.
Corinne's Powder Blue Pajamas // $24
Item#HCN02
In their new decorator-designed purple bedroom, Corinne snuggles up with her pup, Flurry, in front of the fireplace wearing this cozy PJ set that includes:
A fuzzy light-blue fleece hooded sweatshirt with an allover mountain print and a “Mountains Are Calling” graphic
A pair of fuzzy fleece shorts with an allover mountain graphic that matches the top
A pair of knit slipper socks that have bows with pom-poms
How dare you use my love of pigtails on dolls to force me to love this, AG? How dare you. But seriously, this is cute as fuck and it's fuzzy! Which is actually either going to be a major point for or against it. If it's like my fuzzy blankets I get from Kohl's (we call them Ozma blankets because if you put one on, she'd come running.) this will be the best thing ever. If they're subpar, they'll catch on your fingers and be absolute HELL. But the colors are soothing and beautiful and Corinne looks cute as hell in them. Need, want, thank you.
Corinne's Ski Outfit // $38
Item#HCM97
Corinne spends a lot of time at the ski resort training Flurry and shushing down the slopes in this outfit that includes:
A pink-and-aqua colorblock puffy jacket with a zip front and white faux-fur on the hood
A pair of colorblock puffy ski pants that match the jacket
A stretchy aqua headband
A pair of purple gloves with faux-fur trim
A pair of cozy pink socks
Okay, this is awfully cute and looks pretty close to what I'd consider doll versions of real people ski outfits, but I live in a tropical kind of place (short-shorts for Christmas is the rule, not the exception) so my knowledge of skiing is uh not good. I love the colors and they're giving me just enough of the nostalgic warm fuzzies that I kinda want this. Also this is how you do a headband. Dying at the Est. 1986 detail. Love it.
Corinne's Ski Accessories // $44
Item#HCM98
Corinne’s dad is a ski instructor at Buttermilk Mountain, so she’s basically been skiing her whole life. When she wants to spend some time on the slopes, she has all she needs with this set that includes:
A pair of skis with fun photoreal mountain graphics, and bindings the boots can click into—just like the real things!
A pair of ski poles the doll can hold with her mittens on
A white helmet with a clip on the back to hold her goggles on and a chin strap she can buckle for safety
A pair of goggles with a shimmery metallic finish
An elastic armband that fits over the upper arm of Corinne’s ski jacket to hold her ski pass
A ski pass with Corinne’s name on the front and a mountain resort logo on the back
A pair of ski boots that clip into the skis
A sheet of stickers designed to personalize her ski helmet
If you're playing the drinking game, head's up as you gotta take a shot for each of those stickers. But I will say that the colors used are my happy making colors, especially that blue/purple/pink/white mountain sticker. Ooh. Love it. Also I just figured out that my nostalgia vibe is coming from a Midge doll I had with similar colors. Not going to look her up because it'll turn out my memory is crap but the nostalgia remains.
If I were buying for a kid or I was more into accessories or setting scenes this would probably be a no brainer. As it is, I like the ski-pass and the stickers but everything else would probably never be used. This is one of those bits of a collection I'm glad exists but won't be of use to me personally.
Corinne's Dog with Backpack // $35
Item#HCM96
Flurry is a plush mixed-breed dog with tan-and-white fur and an embroidered nose. She is in training to be a search-and-rescue dog. When not at work, she spends time hanging out in Corinne and Gwynn’s bedroom. Her set includes:
A teal backpack for Flurry to wear when she’s working, with pockets on both sides that have mountain graphics
A ball thrower toy with a ball
A bag of pretend dog treats
... I know a big part of her story is training this dog but uh, Flurry is no Murph. And apparently I never got Murph (I think she kept selling out when I had money) so Flurry? Mm, no. Sorry, love. Maybe Flurry will be cuter in person or something but for now I don't think I'll be adding this particular doggo to my menagerie.
Gwynn Doll // $65
Item#HCm94
Gwynn is Corinne’s 7-year-old little sister. She loves ice skating and sharing a bedroom—and “sister brain”—with Corinne.
The 14.5" Gwynn™ doll has brown eyes and long, braided black hair with bangs
A purple knit sweater with a mountain pattern on the front and puff sleeves
A fuzzy pink faux-fur skirt
A pair of white leggings with an elastic waist
A pair of white cotton underwear
A pair of purple boots with multicolored faux-fur trim for winter warmth
I'm on the fence about Gwynn for a few reasons. One, I own exactly one Wellie and that's Emerson. Emerson and Gwynn aren't going to be identical (different wigs, different skintones) but they're going to be similar. Still, that's never stopped me before. I worry about her eyes going funky as they look cloudy already in the images and I know that some brown eyes turn a funky purple. Truthfully I can't remember if AG's been afflicted by this on the Wellies or if that's just other lines for now, but I no longer trust AG on such things so... Also, I kinda think Gwynn looks washed out. Hell, I think Corinne does at times, but she's got that teal in her hair which helps a lot. Finally, that skirt is going to be hell on my dry hands and I just cringe, full body cringe, at the thought of having to touch it. That sweater, however, is adorable and I love it. Also, I read the tiniest snippet on one of the preview pages for the books and Gwynn's adorable and I'm going to cave but I need to vent in these things so future!me can roll her eyes. You're welcome, Future!me.
Seriously though, that skirt looks awful. Ugh.
Gwynn's Accessories // $25
Item#HCM95
Whether she’s at the rink or on the ski slopes, Gwynn stays warm on the go with this set that includes:
A multicolored faux-fur beret
A pair of pink knit mittens with furry white trim
A multicolored sequined backpack
Aw, hell. This is all cute as frick. Mostly that bag again, but just cute overall. Sigh.
Gwynn's Powder Pink Pajamas // $22
Item#HCN01
Snuggled up in these PJs, Gwynn can dream of landing the perfect waltz jump in her skating competition. The set includes:
A woven long-sleeved top in an allover pink print with a collar and a faux-button front
A pair of woven wide-leg pants with an allover pink print and contrast trim on the bottom
A pair of fuzzy purple slippers with embroidered white snowflake graphics on the toes
I want to like these more than I do. I'm sorry, I know they're going for rosy sunrise or sunset but you throw pink, orange, and yellow at me and I get less than happy. Maybe it's just a case of thinking it washes Gwynn out even more, or maybe it needed a smidge more purple.
Gwynn's Ice Skating Performance Outfit // $28
Item#HCN06
Gwynn loves this outfit so much that she puts it on at 5 a.m. for an afternoon skating competition. It includes:
A crushed velvet tie-dye skate dress with a skirt and built-in underwear, plus embroidered cherry blossoms on one shoulder
A flower hair clip with a rhinestone center
A pair of skate tights
A pair of sparkly purple ice skates with real metal blades
Two removable skate guards to protect the blades off the ice
Fine. Take my money, AG. Just take it. I love the purple glittery skates and the whole look is pretty much perfect. I do love that people fretted about Gwynn not getting extra outfits and this was pretty much one of the first things that leaked, even before the doll was confirmed. This was confirmation of the doll and yet people forgot SO fast.
Now let's move into the bigger items. I'd say let's just assume I won't be buying any of these so I won't mention it again but we all know that won't stop me. Sorry?
Corinne and Gwynn's Bedroom Set // $350
Item#HCN03
Even though there are two bedrooms at their stepdad’s house, Corinne and Gwynn decide they’d rather share a room. When he has it decorated for them, they think it’s the most beautiful room ever. It includes:
A bedroom structure that folds up for storage and folds out for play. It features attached bunk beds with a ladder on one end, an outdoor scene printed on the outside, and a lower bunk that converts to a sofa
A window with two different snow mountain scenes to change
A separate structure that can be put in place as a roof over the top bunk or placed on the ground as a ski hill
An upcycled lift chair that has been turned into an indoor furniture piece and hangs from a bracket in the corner of the bedroom
A vanity fireplace—one side is a fireplace that lights up and plays six songs and 13 phrases in Corinne and Gwynn’s voices and the other side converts from an entertainment center with a TV to a vanity with storage shelves
A table with a top made to look like a slice of a tree trunk
A rug with a pastel mountain chevron pattern
A multicolored faux-fur chair for sitting by the vanity
An upper mattress for the bunk bed where Corinne sleeps
A lower mattress for Gwynn
Two pillows for sleeping
A comforter with a bright triangle pattern
A teal knit throw blanket as a throw blanket
A throw pillow with a bright multicolored pattern
A small plant in a gold geometric planter
A faux candle in a container with a mountain graphic
A clip light that can attach to the bunk bed ladder
A bottle of soap
A bottle of lotion
A journal for writing down Flurry’s training plans
A ski brochure with a trail map of the ski slopes
A ski rack to hold wet skis so they don’t make a mess inside
Two pretend baozi and two half baozi, steamed dumplings filled with meat that are a type of Chinese street food
Two wrapped faux zongzi, Corinne’s favorite food, which is steamed sticky rice and other ingredients wrapped in bamboo leaves
A square white plate to serve up the baozi and zongzi
A steamer to cook the baozi and zongzi
A small container of dipping sauce
A pair of chopsticks
Two glasses of pretend boba tea
Wow. Those are a LOT of pictures. Just a lot. Not sure I'm going to share all17 18, but if not, I assure you that when the link works properly you'll likely see a billion pictures. I guess AG realized that on these things, people want to see EVERYTHING and since they've closed a lot of stores, people can't see this in person as easily. So.
Had I the space and the money, I would probably want this enough to consider buying it the first time it went on sale in any form, be it bonus points or 20% off. They've really worked to utilize all the space they have while still making the room itself feel airy and playable. The fact that it doubles as a ski slope/outdoor scene is genius. Oof at the price tag, though. Just oof.
Corinne's Ski and Snack Shop // $150
Item#HCM99
Skiing all day makes Corinne and Gwynn hungry—so when they need a snack, they know where to go to find their favorite treats! This set includes:
Ski & Snack Shop structure with realistic graphics on the outside that reflect classic ski resort architecture, plus a sculpted plastic roof and an awning. The inside features modern layered graphics, a wooden wall with printed art, and a counter attached to the side
A pretend mango-banana drink and a strawberry drink that fit in the fridge
Two bottles of water that fit in the fridge
A serving of nachos on a tray that Corinne can pretend to heat up in the microwave
A faux bagel sandwich for fueling up before a morning ski session
Two pretend brownies and two cookies that can be displayed in the clear display cabinet
A faux fruit-and-yogurt parfait with a spoon
Two pretend pretzels and two granola bars
A tiered countertop display with eight individual stickers that can be placed in the slots
A pretend computer to use at the shop’s counter with a reversible screen—one side is a checkout screen and the other shows the ski resort website
A faux credit card to use with the computer card swiper
A fleece neck warmer with an embroidered graphic
A pretend action camera that attaches to a selfie stick that Corinne can hold to take pics
A pretend ski tracker, a device that helps track lost skiers
A bottle of ski wax
A tube of pretend sunscreen
A water bottle with the ski resort logo
A set of five weekday lift tickets and a weekend ticket
I'm hungry and would very much like some nachos or that snack sammich looking thing. This isn't really my thing though I do think kid!me would've liked it a fair amount. Probably not enough to try for $150 but, y'know, I get the appeal. I will say that the idea of that microwave not turning is making me SMELL the burning, so we'll assume that's a warming oven and not a microwave. Yeah, yeah, that's it.
eta: Nope, it's meant to be a microwave. AG, kids need to know that if things can't turn in a microwave they're gonna burn the place down or at least create a terrible mess.
Corinne's Ski Lodge Fire Pit // $85
Item#HCN00
Corinne and Gwynn have a special date with their dad for s’mores and hot cocoa at a fire pit like this one that includes:
A faux fire pit with flickering LED flames that make crackling fire noises
A curved bench big enough for Corinne and Gwynn to share while they warm up
A plush pink cotton cushion that fits on top of the bench
A decorative throw pillow with a “Ski Aspen” mountain graphic printed on the front
A geometric-print fleece blanket that’s big enough to cover one doll's lap and legs
A set of two cocoa mugs a doll can really hold with faux whipped cream on top
An insulated bottle Corinne can use to pour pretend hot cocoa into the mugs
Mmm, no. I want the mugs of cocoa but everything else for me is a pass. I try not to be one of those "ugh, look at the hunks of plastic!" people because it's a toy, of course it's going to involve plastic, but this just looks like the least level of effort was given. I freely admit I am picky about my golds and I hate plastic gold like that. If not for that, I might be more forgiving of the look but it always drags things down. At that price point I was never going to buy it though so no worries.
Didn't mean to end on a downer but there are also a bunch of bundle options and the organization they're partnering up with for 2022 is AAPI Youth Rising.
Overall, the stuff I love, I think I will really love, and the stuff I don't like, with the exception of garbage scarf, I'm merely meh about. Which isn't bad.
Right now I'm truly eying the dolls, likely the Meet accessories, Corinne's pajamas, Gwynn's skating outfit and probably Corinne's casual muppet killing outfit. Likely will pick up the ski outfit and Gwynn's PJs at some point, too.
Sure, why not.
eta: Okay, things could change because AG's site isn't the best but since I fell asleep since starting things, we've now landed in 12/27. Looks like you can preorder Corinne and her accessories HERE through the 29th and then on the 30th you get the annual GMA reveal. If you click on any of the other links, you get a message that says
You’re early!
Come back on Thursday, 12/30/2021 for something new on www.americangirl.com. So maybe they'll open up orders then, or maybe it'll just be kind of a "look at what's coming in two days!" thing. Dunno.
I will say that had they put more than just Corinne up for preorder, I probably would've caved. I'm holding out hope that the bundles, which aren't showing ANY savings (not even the buy a doll and her accessories and get $5 off) will update to be a smidge cheaper. Truthfully not sure if they really do bundle savings anymore though. Anyway, on with the show.
As you might have heard, this year we get TWO Girls of the Year. Sisters Corinne and Gwynn Tan are Chinese American kids living in Colorado and if you take a shot each time you see something referencing mountains or Colorado in their collection, you will maybe not die but you'll probably be feeling either no pain or a lot of pain depending on your shot of choice. The assholes are out in fullforce and have been since pics from a survey began circulating. Here is a safe space to comment in whatever way you like because like, all two of you are awesome. :D
We begin with Corinne:
Corinne Girl of the Year 2022 // $110
Item#HCM92
When the powder’s fresh, Corinne snaps on her skis and takes a deep breath of crisp mountain air. She and her sister, Gwynn, have always called Aspen home, but moving in with their new stepdad changes everything. One good change is Corinne’s new puppy named Flurry that she’s training to do search-and-rescue.
The 18” Corinne™ doll has brown eyes and long, straight black hair with turquoise layers that can be brushed and styled
A white cable-knit mock turtleneck sweater
A pair of iridescent purple leggings with an elastic waist
A pair of white cotton underwear
A pair of blue boots with faux-fur trim to tromp in the snow
The Corinne paperback book
Since we're flying without descriptions right now, we'll just go on pics and guesses. I'm guessing she and Gwynn use the golden skin tone? Or maybe AG failtography strikes again. I'm also still guessing Corinne's mold is a modified Nanea mold with Jess's eyes, sorta like Joss is Classic and Josefina.
I think Corinne is adorable and I love her hair and yes, we've talked about this before. But I really love her hairstyle, too. I kind of wish her sweater wasn't velcro up the back but with the hairstyle, I get it. I... don't love the boots as much as I thought I would. I might love them in person and I don't dislike them, it's just I was prepped for hearteyes and this is more... don't like the darker teal with that shade of purple maybe? Eh. It tickles me that the boots match the hair, though.
Corinne's Accessories // $35
Item#HCM93
Corinne is lucky because she can walk right from school to ski at Ajax Mountain. This set has all the accessories she needs for an afternoon of skiing:
A pink knit hat with a pink pom-pom on top
A pair of blue sunglasses with ombre lenses to block out the glare from the snow
A pair of pink knit legwarmers
A circle-shaped, blue-tinted clear vinyl backpack with sparkly stars on the front and a zipper closure
A pretend ski pass to give her access to the slopes
THAT BAG. I see we're continuing the tradition of the GOTY accessories involving a really cute bag, huh? No clue as to how off the scale is on the pass (seems off) and I dislike the sunnies on Corinne, but I like the hat and leg warmers sooooooo... overpriced but that bag is going to get me, isn't it?
Corinne's Casual Outfit // $34
Item#HCN04
When she’s hanging out with her best friend, Cassidy, or cheering Gwynn on at the rink, Corinne shows off her mountain style in this outfit that includes:
A purple faux-fur coat with a snuggly stand-up collar
A pale blue short-sleeved tee with a graphic of snow-capped mountains
A pair of multicolored print leggings with an elastic waist
A white fleece headband
A pair of white iridescent pull-on boots
Hate how this is styled, love the pieces. Corinne killed a muppet, the shirt is cute, love the leggings, and while the boots aren't perfection like Luci's, they're like the winter ski version of those so yes, I'll make it work. But all together not a look I love. Maybe I just don't like the headband? I think it does weird things to her head, but it could also be because it wipes out her ears and I don't really like that look on anyone.
Corinne's Ice Skating Accessories // $24
Item#HCN05
Even though she’s not taking lessons like her sister Gwynn, Corinne still likes to spend some time at the rink. She’s all set to skate with this set that includes:
A white fleece pull-through scarf to stay warm while she skates
A pair of white mittens with purple graphic accents
A pair of blue ice skates with real metal blades
A pair of hot-pink removable skate guards to protect the blades off the ice
AG. AG, c'mon now. AG, that scarf is absolute garbage and you know it. GARBAGE. At first I was kind of pleasantly surprised by the price and then I noticed how the scarf actually goes on and how it looks and now it's all I can see and if I must suffer, so must you. Those mittens are adorable and I want them, but I don't think I can bring myself to bring that trash scarf wannabe into this home. I also probably do not need yet another pair of doll iceskates. AG. No. Bad doll company. No cookies for you.
Corinne's Powder Blue Pajamas // $24
Item#HCN02
In their new decorator-designed purple bedroom, Corinne snuggles up with her pup, Flurry, in front of the fireplace wearing this cozy PJ set that includes:
A fuzzy light-blue fleece hooded sweatshirt with an allover mountain print and a “Mountains Are Calling” graphic
A pair of fuzzy fleece shorts with an allover mountain graphic that matches the top
A pair of knit slipper socks that have bows with pom-poms
How dare you use my love of pigtails on dolls to force me to love this, AG? How dare you. But seriously, this is cute as fuck and it's fuzzy! Which is actually either going to be a major point for or against it. If it's like my fuzzy blankets I get from Kohl's (we call them Ozma blankets because if you put one on, she'd come running.) this will be the best thing ever. If they're subpar, they'll catch on your fingers and be absolute HELL. But the colors are soothing and beautiful and Corinne looks cute as hell in them. Need, want, thank you.
Corinne's Ski Outfit // $38
Item#HCM97
Corinne spends a lot of time at the ski resort training Flurry and shushing down the slopes in this outfit that includes:
A pink-and-aqua colorblock puffy jacket with a zip front and white faux-fur on the hood
A pair of colorblock puffy ski pants that match the jacket
A stretchy aqua headband
A pair of purple gloves with faux-fur trim
A pair of cozy pink socks
Okay, this is awfully cute and looks pretty close to what I'd consider doll versions of real people ski outfits, but I live in a tropical kind of place (short-shorts for Christmas is the rule, not the exception) so my knowledge of skiing is uh not good. I love the colors and they're giving me just enough of the nostalgic warm fuzzies that I kinda want this. Also this is how you do a headband. Dying at the Est. 1986 detail. Love it.
Corinne's Ski Accessories // $44
Item#HCM98
Corinne’s dad is a ski instructor at Buttermilk Mountain, so she’s basically been skiing her whole life. When she wants to spend some time on the slopes, she has all she needs with this set that includes:
A pair of skis with fun photoreal mountain graphics, and bindings the boots can click into—just like the real things!
A pair of ski poles the doll can hold with her mittens on
A white helmet with a clip on the back to hold her goggles on and a chin strap she can buckle for safety
A pair of goggles with a shimmery metallic finish
An elastic armband that fits over the upper arm of Corinne’s ski jacket to hold her ski pass
A ski pass with Corinne’s name on the front and a mountain resort logo on the back
A pair of ski boots that clip into the skis
A sheet of stickers designed to personalize her ski helmet
If you're playing the drinking game, head's up as you gotta take a shot for each of those stickers. But I will say that the colors used are my happy making colors, especially that blue/purple/pink/white mountain sticker. Ooh. Love it. Also I just figured out that my nostalgia vibe is coming from a Midge doll I had with similar colors. Not going to look her up because it'll turn out my memory is crap but the nostalgia remains.
If I were buying for a kid or I was more into accessories or setting scenes this would probably be a no brainer. As it is, I like the ski-pass and the stickers but everything else would probably never be used. This is one of those bits of a collection I'm glad exists but won't be of use to me personally.
Corinne's Dog with Backpack // $35
Item#HCM96
Flurry is a plush mixed-breed dog with tan-and-white fur and an embroidered nose. She is in training to be a search-and-rescue dog. When not at work, she spends time hanging out in Corinne and Gwynn’s bedroom. Her set includes:
A teal backpack for Flurry to wear when she’s working, with pockets on both sides that have mountain graphics
A ball thrower toy with a ball
A bag of pretend dog treats
... I know a big part of her story is training this dog but uh, Flurry is no Murph. And apparently I never got Murph (I think she kept selling out when I had money) so Flurry? Mm, no. Sorry, love. Maybe Flurry will be cuter in person or something but for now I don't think I'll be adding this particular doggo to my menagerie.
Gwynn Doll // $65
Item#HCm94
Gwynn is Corinne’s 7-year-old little sister. She loves ice skating and sharing a bedroom—and “sister brain”—with Corinne.
The 14.5" Gwynn™ doll has brown eyes and long, braided black hair with bangs
A purple knit sweater with a mountain pattern on the front and puff sleeves
A fuzzy pink faux-fur skirt
A pair of white leggings with an elastic waist
A pair of white cotton underwear
A pair of purple boots with multicolored faux-fur trim for winter warmth
I'm on the fence about Gwynn for a few reasons. One, I own exactly one Wellie and that's Emerson. Emerson and Gwynn aren't going to be identical (different wigs, different skintones) but they're going to be similar. Still, that's never stopped me before. I worry about her eyes going funky as they look cloudy already in the images and I know that some brown eyes turn a funky purple. Truthfully I can't remember if AG's been afflicted by this on the Wellies or if that's just other lines for now, but I no longer trust AG on such things so... Also, I kinda think Gwynn looks washed out. Hell, I think Corinne does at times, but she's got that teal in her hair which helps a lot. Finally, that skirt is going to be hell on my dry hands and I just cringe, full body cringe, at the thought of having to touch it. That sweater, however, is adorable and I love it. Also, I read the tiniest snippet on one of the preview pages for the books and Gwynn's adorable and I'm going to cave but I need to vent in these things so future!me can roll her eyes. You're welcome, Future!me.
Seriously though, that skirt looks awful. Ugh.
Gwynn's Accessories // $25
Item#HCM95
Whether she’s at the rink or on the ski slopes, Gwynn stays warm on the go with this set that includes:
A multicolored faux-fur beret
A pair of pink knit mittens with furry white trim
A multicolored sequined backpack
Aw, hell. This is all cute as frick. Mostly that bag again, but just cute overall. Sigh.
Gwynn's Powder Pink Pajamas // $22
Item#HCN01
Snuggled up in these PJs, Gwynn can dream of landing the perfect waltz jump in her skating competition. The set includes:
A woven long-sleeved top in an allover pink print with a collar and a faux-button front
A pair of woven wide-leg pants with an allover pink print and contrast trim on the bottom
A pair of fuzzy purple slippers with embroidered white snowflake graphics on the toes
I want to like these more than I do. I'm sorry, I know they're going for rosy sunrise or sunset but you throw pink, orange, and yellow at me and I get less than happy. Maybe it's just a case of thinking it washes Gwynn out even more, or maybe it needed a smidge more purple.
Gwynn's Ice Skating Performance Outfit // $28
Item#HCN06
Gwynn loves this outfit so much that she puts it on at 5 a.m. for an afternoon skating competition. It includes:
A crushed velvet tie-dye skate dress with a skirt and built-in underwear, plus embroidered cherry blossoms on one shoulder
A flower hair clip with a rhinestone center
A pair of skate tights
A pair of sparkly purple ice skates with real metal blades
Two removable skate guards to protect the blades off the ice
Fine. Take my money, AG. Just take it. I love the purple glittery skates and the whole look is pretty much perfect. I do love that people fretted about Gwynn not getting extra outfits and this was pretty much one of the first things that leaked, even before the doll was confirmed. This was confirmation of the doll and yet people forgot SO fast.
Now let's move into the bigger items. I'd say let's just assume I won't be buying any of these so I won't mention it again but we all know that won't stop me. Sorry?
Corinne and Gwynn's Bedroom Set // $350
Item#HCN03
Even though there are two bedrooms at their stepdad’s house, Corinne and Gwynn decide they’d rather share a room. When he has it decorated for them, they think it’s the most beautiful room ever. It includes:
A bedroom structure that folds up for storage and folds out for play. It features attached bunk beds with a ladder on one end, an outdoor scene printed on the outside, and a lower bunk that converts to a sofa
A window with two different snow mountain scenes to change
A separate structure that can be put in place as a roof over the top bunk or placed on the ground as a ski hill
An upcycled lift chair that has been turned into an indoor furniture piece and hangs from a bracket in the corner of the bedroom
A vanity fireplace—one side is a fireplace that lights up and plays six songs and 13 phrases in Corinne and Gwynn’s voices and the other side converts from an entertainment center with a TV to a vanity with storage shelves
A table with a top made to look like a slice of a tree trunk
A rug with a pastel mountain chevron pattern
A multicolored faux-fur chair for sitting by the vanity
An upper mattress for the bunk bed where Corinne sleeps
A lower mattress for Gwynn
Two pillows for sleeping
A comforter with a bright triangle pattern
A teal knit throw blanket as a throw blanket
A throw pillow with a bright multicolored pattern
A small plant in a gold geometric planter
A faux candle in a container with a mountain graphic
A clip light that can attach to the bunk bed ladder
A bottle of soap
A bottle of lotion
A journal for writing down Flurry’s training plans
A ski brochure with a trail map of the ski slopes
A ski rack to hold wet skis so they don’t make a mess inside
Two pretend baozi and two half baozi, steamed dumplings filled with meat that are a type of Chinese street food
Two wrapped faux zongzi, Corinne’s favorite food, which is steamed sticky rice and other ingredients wrapped in bamboo leaves
A square white plate to serve up the baozi and zongzi
A steamer to cook the baozi and zongzi
A small container of dipping sauce
A pair of chopsticks
Two glasses of pretend boba tea
Wow. Those are a LOT of pictures. Just a lot. Not sure I'm going to share all
Had I the space and the money, I would probably want this enough to consider buying it the first time it went on sale in any form, be it bonus points or 20% off. They've really worked to utilize all the space they have while still making the room itself feel airy and playable. The fact that it doubles as a ski slope/outdoor scene is genius. Oof at the price tag, though. Just oof.
Corinne's Ski and Snack Shop // $150
Item#HCM99
Skiing all day makes Corinne and Gwynn hungry—so when they need a snack, they know where to go to find their favorite treats! This set includes:
Ski & Snack Shop structure with realistic graphics on the outside that reflect classic ski resort architecture, plus a sculpted plastic roof and an awning. The inside features modern layered graphics, a wooden wall with printed art, and a counter attached to the side
A pretend mango-banana drink and a strawberry drink that fit in the fridge
Two bottles of water that fit in the fridge
A serving of nachos on a tray that Corinne can pretend to heat up in the microwave
A faux bagel sandwich for fueling up before a morning ski session
Two pretend brownies and two cookies that can be displayed in the clear display cabinet
A faux fruit-and-yogurt parfait with a spoon
Two pretend pretzels and two granola bars
A tiered countertop display with eight individual stickers that can be placed in the slots
A pretend computer to use at the shop’s counter with a reversible screen—one side is a checkout screen and the other shows the ski resort website
A faux credit card to use with the computer card swiper
A fleece neck warmer with an embroidered graphic
A pretend action camera that attaches to a selfie stick that Corinne can hold to take pics
A pretend ski tracker, a device that helps track lost skiers
A bottle of ski wax
A tube of pretend sunscreen
A water bottle with the ski resort logo
A set of five weekday lift tickets and a weekend ticket
I'm hungry and would very much like some nachos or that snack sammich looking thing. This isn't really my thing though I do think kid!me would've liked it a fair amount. Probably not enough to try for $150 but, y'know, I get the appeal. I will say that the idea of that microwave not turning is making me SMELL the burning, so we'll assume that's a warming oven and not a microwave. Yeah, yeah, that's it.
eta: Nope, it's meant to be a microwave. AG, kids need to know that if things can't turn in a microwave they're gonna burn the place down or at least create a terrible mess.
Corinne's Ski Lodge Fire Pit // $85
Item#HCN00
Corinne and Gwynn have a special date with their dad for s’mores and hot cocoa at a fire pit like this one that includes:
A faux fire pit with flickering LED flames that make crackling fire noises
A curved bench big enough for Corinne and Gwynn to share while they warm up
A plush pink cotton cushion that fits on top of the bench
A decorative throw pillow with a “Ski Aspen” mountain graphic printed on the front
A geometric-print fleece blanket that’s big enough to cover one doll's lap and legs
A set of two cocoa mugs a doll can really hold with faux whipped cream on top
An insulated bottle Corinne can use to pour pretend hot cocoa into the mugs
Mmm, no. I want the mugs of cocoa but everything else for me is a pass. I try not to be one of those "ugh, look at the hunks of plastic!" people because it's a toy, of course it's going to involve plastic, but this just looks like the least level of effort was given. I freely admit I am picky about my golds and I hate plastic gold like that. If not for that, I might be more forgiving of the look but it always drags things down. At that price point I was never going to buy it though so no worries.
Didn't mean to end on a downer but there are also a bunch of bundle options and the organization they're partnering up with for 2022 is AAPI Youth Rising.
Overall, the stuff I love, I think I will really love, and the stuff I don't like, with the exception of garbage scarf, I'm merely meh about. Which isn't bad.
Right now I'm truly eying the dolls, likely the Meet accessories, Corinne's pajamas, Gwynn's skating outfit and probably Corinne's casual muppet killing outfit. Likely will pick up the ski outfit and Gwynn's PJs at some point, too.
(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-27 03:20 pm (UTC)Thankfully, I only want Corinne. The clothes are cute, but this is not my color scheme and they're winter clothes which are typically not my thing. I'm very glad I actually love her meet outfit, though she may someday get a different sweater. The white is just...a LOT of white. Gwynn is cute but also her eyes look enormous. Are Emerson's that big? It's been ages since I sold all my Wellies. I do love this idea though. I miss the best friend dolls. A lot. I really wish they'd do another round of anniversary dolls so I could get Kaya and then if they did the friends, too, I could get Nellie again. Anyway. Yes. Like the little sister idea.
What don't people like about her? The hair color? The face? Those people suck.
(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-27 03:44 pm (UTC)Pretty sure Em and Gwynn are the same mold so her eyes are likely that large. Can't swear to it but it seems likely.
I'd hold out for the second book. I want to preorder but I must be good. Must. Be. Good.
Oooh, I do wish they'd revisit the anniversary idea and re-release the best friends. All hail Nellie!
(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-27 04:03 pm (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-27 11:46 pm (UTC)Seriously, the number of kids I see with dyed hair these days is insane. I'm not saying I'd personally be bleaching a kid's whole head but the ends/not the scalp? You do you, kiddo. And in doll form? Gimme every color of the rainbow! But no, we must think of the children. The children who are the market for this and thus it doesn't matter if you like it, Doris. Ugh.
(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-28 02:48 am (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-28 02:54 am (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-28 03:02 am (UTC)(no subject)
Date: 2021-12-28 09:18 am (UTC)I wish I could see Makena in person before ultimately deciding. Apparently her sales have been dismal. Like they expected them to suck and they've still sucked more than anticipated. Gimme a sale when I have money, AG, and you might trick me.