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AG: August drop
Okay, now that we're not dealing with the bank (fuckers are still on my shit list til they gimme my money back) or a looming thunderstorm, let's look at the newest AG release, shall we?
We're gonna start with the Birthstone Series and you might or might not remember the survey images we discussed last year when those appeared. If not, that's cool. I've got you covered:
And honestly? They stuck pretty true to this.
We begin in January, who probably had the most changes.
January Gorgeous Garnet Outfit // $52
Item#HPT25
With rich red hues and head-to-toe sparkle, she’ll showcase trendsetting style and celebrate her special month with this gemstone-inspired ensemble.
Premium features:
A sparkling garnet-hued outfit featuring a jacket embellished with red gemstones across the chest and glitter-knit sleeves, a glitter-knit tank top, and a skirt with a raschel overlay and gem-encrusted ribbon detail
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-garnet gem
Also includes:
A red glitter-knit newsboy cap and a pair of dark-red glittery platform sneakers with white laces and striped soles
A guide detailing personality traits associated with each gemstone and showcasing all outfits in the collection
I love the person who is trying to justify the prices for these by saying "b-b-but the gemstones!" Ma'am, have you ever BEEN to a craft store? They might not have shit these days but they still have gemstones and they do not make up the price difference here, k? AG wants this line to be fancy and if they slap on enough sparkle and charge enough, it will be special, goddammit. :P
That said, I think this one is my favorite. So uh, awkward when we get to Ruby, huh? I think the shoes are cute, I don't mind the pants from the promo being swapped out for a skirt because I really do like the skirt, and the top combo is more work than I would put in for myself, it's the type of thing I like in doll clothes. I'm not really sold on the cap but like... it's there and it's fine. If any of them get me for full price, it'll be this one. I also really like the boxes for this line.
I'm only including the bit about the guide being included here, but it's obviously included with each outfit.
Amazing Amethyst Outfit // $52
Item#HPT26
Purple perfection! Whether honoring a birthday month or sporting a signature color, she’s sure to dazzle in this amethyst-inspired ensemble.
Premium features:
An allover amethyst-hued outfit featuring an ombre A-line dress with gems along the V-neckline and skirt hem, plus a sheer coat with a bold faux-fur-trimmed collar, faux-fur-trimmed sleeves, and gemstone embellishments
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-amethyst gem and two purple barrettes with gems
Also includes:
A pair of strappy purple platform sandals with gems
This is giving me serious Janet Howell goes to a party vibes and that's not the compliment she'd assume it was. I would normally be on board for the shoes, but even though the real pics on IG make the color seem less purple grey putty, it's still not nearly sparkly enough. At least the promo spackled gems all over the straps for the shoes.
March Gleaming Aquamarine Outfit // $52
Item#HPT27
Showstopping style meets serene aquamarine in this birthstone-inspired ensemble.
Premium features:
An allover aquamarine-colored dress with gathered mesh pouf sleeves and neckline, gems along the sweetheart bodice and satin ribbon waistband, and a gathered skirt with two tiers of mesh
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-aquamarine gem and a rhinestone ponytail holder with three gemstones
Also includes:
A pair of strappy aqua platform sandals with gems
Four sets of adhesive faux-aquamarine earrings
Absolutely not. I love the color but oh, my god, just no. The big poofy sleeves are just...I can't. Words continue to fail me. It is pretty much exactly like the proto pic but oof. I will say that my brain keeps trying to turn this into a skating outfit and when it does make those needed changes, I'm far more forgiving. But as it is, other than the color and lowkey loving the shoes (I was a teen in the late 90's, I am obligated to either love or loathe platform shoes and I love them in theory.)
April Dazzling Diamond Outfit // $52
Item#HPT28
She’ll strike a platinum pose and shine bright in this diamond-inspired set.
Premium features:
A shimmering silver ensemble featuring a layered metallic tinsel crop jacket, a star-print raschel tank top with a gemstone neckline, and a star-print raschel skirt with faux-diamond gems
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-diamond gem and a pair of silver sunglasses with gemstone details
Also includes:
A pair of strappy silver sandals with glitter and gems
If March is the dress the mean girl in a cheesy teen show/movie wears to the big dance, this is the outfit the quirky best friend wears. And I love it. I hate the jacket but also love just how OTT this whole damn thing is. I'm wondering how it fares without the jacket though. I never said my taste was any good, ok?
May Enchanting Emerald Outfit // $52
Item#HPT29
Groovy and glam, this emerald-inspired outfit serves up superstar style with a vintage flair.
Premium features:
An emerald-green swirl-print romper with mesh split long sleeves, a V-neckline adorned with gemstones, and a glittery ribbon sash with a gem detail at the waist
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-emerald gem
Also includes:
Tall green platform boots with gem details, glittery toes, and chunky soles
A glittery green headband
And this is the outfit the mom wears to chaperone the way back dance to show she's still hot but also to remind you that she's just a touch out of step. I don't hate it but I have complicated feelings. I kinda love the boots and if the headband is better than their usual style, I think the glittery green is fab. I just think this doll looks a bit like her face is melting and it's throwing me off. I'd totally buy this on sale.
June Exquisite Alexandrite Outfit // $52
Item#HPT30
Powerful purple hues pair up in this sporty-chic ensemble—perfect for celebrating a special birthstone or showcasing signature style.
Premium features:
A purple alexandrite-inspired outfit featuring a romper with a glitter-knit bodice, gemstone-embellished neckline, and taffeta pouf sleeves and shorts, plus a sheer pleated midi skirt overlay with open front and a jewel-tone ombre pattern
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-alexandrite gem and a faux pearl on each side
Also includes:
A purple glitter-knit cap with a sparkly inset design and a pair of purple sneakers with glittery toes, blue laces, and striped soles
I see the alliteration train has derailed. I hate, hate, HATE the overlay. But if it's not permanently attached, I don't hate the romper. The shoes are cute-adjacent, though I do think they'd work better with just the alexandrite gems, while the pearl touches are nice on the romper's neckline.
July Remarkable Ruby Outfit // $52
Item#HPT31
Radiant ruby hues and high-fashion fringe combine for a birthstone-inspired look that sparkles from head to toe.
Premium features:
A ruby-hued outfit featuring a cropped jacket adorned with gemstones and an elongated fringed hem, a geometric-print tank top, and shorts with a geometric-print waistband, gemstones, and a ribbon detail
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-ruby gem
Also includes:
A pair of red boots with gemstones and glittery soles, a glittery red headband, and 4 sets of adhesive faux-ruby earrings
What in the Texan fried hell. I was all ready to reluctantly try and defend this and then I zoomed in and it just got so much worse. The pleather. The fringe. The boots that do not have the glittery platform as promised by the promo. The headband fits about as well as I'd feared, though I am telling myself that she's got pigtails so maybe it's not AS bad... but the whole thing makes this July birthday having person sad. If I could kill the fringe, I'd love the jacket. Fringe like that is just...why. I'm wishing they'd just gone all the way in on the cowgirl from hell vibe and swapped the headband for a cowboy hat.
August Phenomenal Peridot Outfit // $52
Item#HPT32
She’ll show off a peridot glow in this gorgeous green gemstone-inspired outfit, ideal for August birthdays and fashion mavens alike.
Premium features:
A bright-green drop-waist raschel dress with an off-the-shoulder mesh ruffle neckline and spaghetti straps, gathered front detail with glittery ribbons, and a gemstone-adorned raschel skirt with a mesh underskirt
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-peridot gem
Also includes:
A pair of glittery green platform sandals with gemstones along the strap, a pair of green sunglasses with green lenses, and 4 sets of adhesive faux-peridot earrings
Lori nailed it when she said this was toddler Tinker Bell. And yet I can't fully write it off, but I think it's the reverse of May's outfit/doll combo, where this time I like the doll and that improves the outfit.
September Sparkling Sapphire Outfit // $52
Item#HPT33
This true-blue two-piece set is a sapphire celebration—perfect for celebrating September birthdays or showcasing bold blue colorways.
Premium features:
A sapphire-blue ensemble featuring a top with a gathered gemstone-adorned bodice, sweetheart neckline, smocked waist, and gathered raschel sleeves with ribbons, plus a pair of flared raschel pants with gems at the hem
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-sapphire gem
Also includes:
A flouncy blue beret and a pair of blue platform sandals with crisscross straps
I forget who called this the Mama Mia outfit when the survey pics leaked but that's how my brain has categorized it ever since. It's also the outfit I'd be tempted second most to spend full price money on. I kinda love that shirt, those shoes are cute (they need more sparkle, dammit) and I can never get berets to look good on dolls but this blue is so damn pretty. And Ivy says she'll just take it, thank you.
October Twinkling Tourmaline Outfit // $52
Item#HPT34
Pink and plaid are the perfect pairing in this gemstone-inspired style that gives a nod to the ‘90s.
Includes:
A tourmaline-pink ensemble featuring an iridescent pink foil jacket with gems along the front and striped trim, a glitter-knit tank top, and a plaid skater-style skirt
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-tourmaline gem and a faux-opal gem on each side
Also includes:
A pair of pink iridescent platform boots with glittery toes and two elastic hair accessories with iridescent pink pom-poms
Gimme opals, you cowards! Curse a generation of children, you wimps. I mean uh... Ahem. I guess, like June, they did include opals here but it took me entirely too long to notice them because the pink eats them. The top doesn't feel balanced somehow. I must admit I love the boots though. The jacket's different and the hair poms are cute. With the 90's mention, I do wonder whether they intentionally set out to nod to different decades or if it just kind of happened. *muse* I'd buy this on sale.
This is another one that's just different enough from the promos to mention but I don't dislike the changes when I think about them realistically. The promo gives the illusion of sheer iridiscent sleeves but I don't think that'd actually work well. And I like how the boots are actually done so I'm fine with that change.
November Shimmering Citrine Outfit // $52
Item#HPT35
Fall in love with this bold birthstone-inspired look that brings together all her faves: bright color, plush texture, and serious sparkle.
Premium features:
A citrine-colored ensemble featuring a cotton checkered print dress with an orange belt and gem details, an orange faux-fur jacket with an oversized lapel collar and gemstones, and a knit beanie with gemstones along the front
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-citrine gem
Also includes:
A pair of orange platform high-top sneakers with gems and striped soles
I take it back. I'd get this one second. I don't even mind the muppet jacket and I'd like to think the dress would work without it. Hell, I'm not even sure I wouldn't get this before January just because it's different. *muse*
December Blue Beauty Topaz Outfit // $52
Item#HPT36
Shimmery-blue and cool as ice, this blue topaz birthstone-inspired ensemble is a dream for December birthdays and streetwear-chic fashion fans.
Premium features:
A blue topaz-colored outfit featuring a satin puffer jacket with a collar and rib-knit trim, a knit tank top with gem details, and a printed ombre skirt with a side slit and gems along the waistband
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-blue-topaz gem
Also includes:
A pair of barrettes with three gems on each and a pair of blue platform low-top sneakers with gems, striped soles, and glittery toes
-_- I have questions, like why is December the only one to show us what the top looks like without the jacket? Why is the skirt printed in the same way the CYO stuff is printed? Meh. I like the accessories for this one- the hair clips are cute, the shoes are yet another pair I wouldn't mind owning, and I even kind of like the jacket oddly enough. But yeah, this isn't a $52 outfit, AG.
And according to this, December is the only month AG doesn't have a character birthday for. Do you think maybe GOTY 24 will change that?
Overall, it's an odd collection. On the one hand, they're likely not banking on too many people buying them all, but they do have to hope a few do. And as a set, they aren't super cohesive beyond a sea of chokers.
AHA! I knew I could dig up my thoughts from the survey time:
Would buy right now if I had the funds and they were available:
May. Those boots. The showmanship of the look. But mostly the boots. - I mean... I still maintain the boots are nifty.
September. Someone called the overall line very Mama Mia but this is the one that screams that most to me. And while I visibly recoiled when it first loaded, it's the one I couldn't stop thinking about. Could be absolute trash in reality but I do find myself loving it somehow. Also accessories! Hat, earrings, and necklace. - How did past!me not notice they all had chokers? I guess because some look more than just ribbons with gems stamped on them. Also, see? Mama Mia.
October. Look, you cowards, make opals the theme. I know you can do iridescent stuff. Actually, the jacket sleeves probably are. Anyway, that said, I really like this and I'm not normally a pink person. I just think it's cute as hell. -*snort*
November. GIMME. NOW. I probably won't like the jacket (it looks fuzzy so it could be good or gross feeling) but that dress. GIMME. - See? I can be consistent sometimes.
Mmm maybe? Need more info:
Jan. It's red so the likelihood of stains went way up and the pants are interesting. Could be awesome, could be awful, too soon to tell. - RIP, pants.
April. Are you silver? If so, I'd probably cave even if the jacket is very much wtf. Are you grey? If so, disappointment. - The jacket IS wtf, past!me, but it's silver so yay.
July. See Jan's red problem but now add fringe to that. I would likely cave on this one simply because it's my birth month but again, this doll is cute and she's clouding my judgment. But also earrings and necklace again! - Ohhhh, honey, no.
December. Don't like puffy jacket but could like other bits. - I like that this one is my biggest change of heart.
Ummm...:
Feb. I have many questions. What is that jacket. What is that neckline. Those shoes. How big are the gems? Is that just to show they're going to have gems or are they planning on them being massive? I love this doll and will be buying her and you'll see why in the next section, btw. - And to think, them not being massive is one of the problems with the shoes. But I was right about the doll.
March. Should probably have gone into the mebbe section but I feel like this one is either going to be super awful (those sleeves!) or amazing (those shoes!) and I'm not really sure which way it'll fall. -Awful, past!me. Awful.
June. I love the colors. I could get on board with the shoes and the necklace is cute. I... cannot with the hat and the... skirt? Overlay thing? What is that? Why? Maybe without the hat I could but it's a weird mashup. The shoes and hat want it to be girly casual and the other thing wants to be something else entirely. -it wants to be fug, self. That's all. I really do need to look up whether it's one piece or not.
August. This is the one I think that'll be most affected by fabric choices. It could take this from "huh, interesting" to surprisingly awesome or down to "wow, not even Walmart would try this shit." - Same, past!me. Same.
Halloween also had survey options, so let's move onto that, shall we?
JUSTICE FOR THE GHOST.
I mean, uh...
So. We've re-released last year's Skelly, so I won't be covering that beyond a shot with the new treat set. We also recolored the witch costume from teal to pink.
Chants and Charms Witch Costume // $40
Item#HRN81
Brew up some fun this Halloween—or during dress-up time—in this shiny, spooky witch costume.
Includes:
A black rainbow-foil dress with a mesh neckline, a magenta satin underskirt, and an attached belt with a shiny buckle
A black rainbow-foil hat with a magenta ribbon around it
A pair of multi-foil-print fingerless gloves with thumb holes
A pair of black glitter boots and striped knit socks
A broom with a handle for the doll to hold as she rides
Corinne is still in the teal version from last year. I should probably make sure she hasn't been stained to hell and back, huh? I'm kinda miffed they just recolored this pink but I also really like black and pink with rainbow sprinkles so... I can't say I won't cave at some point.
Trick or Treat Candy Costume // $40
Item#HPN02
She’ll be sweeter than any candy she collects in this cute candy-corn costume.
Includes:
A dress with a black satin bodice with dimensional bows, white satin puff sleeves, and a four-layer satin skirt in candy-corn colors
A pair of black-and-white polka-dot leggings
A headband with an attached witch hat in candy-corn colors and a black-and-white polka-dot band with a bow
A pair of glittery orange sneakers with stripes along the sides
I want to like this more than I think I do. I do wonder if I'd like it more without the leggings. *muse* The shoes are cute and now I want candy corn. This feels very much like something a person who doesn't like the scary parts of Halloween would put together for their kid. I wish they'd leaned a little more into the witch aspect or maybe just made the hat a bit bigger? It'd still be a tiny cute hat.
Trick or Treat Set // $28
Item#HKN07
There are no tricks to be found among this sweet Halloween haul!
Includes:
A jack-o’-lantern treat bucket with a handle that dolls can hold and plenty of pretend candy to fill it: a set of two American Girl® brand chocolate-covered graham crackers, a jack-o’-lantern lollipop, a ghost lollipop, a serving of popcorn mixed with candy corn and chocolate candy pieces, and a box of candy corn
I dunno, AG, I'd consider that unholy popcorn abomination a trick. I'd also say it's VERY generous to say the dolls can hold that pail, but I do like that they included holders for the lollipops because the having to slot them JUST SO to get a doll to hold them looks fucking stupid. So good on them for realizing that. Gonna admit I'm kind of happy the popcorn ball looks disgusting because I was worried AG had finally turned the corner on making their doll food look okay. :P Seriously though, the lollipops are cute and I know this set is overpriced for what it is, but have we met? Did you miss the year round Halloween love? Of course I want this.
Midnight Bat Costume // $40
Item#HPM99
She’ll go batty on Halloween night—or during dress-up time—with this eerily cute costume.
Includes:
A black long-sleeved romper with an iridescent purple bodice and iridescent purple bat wings
A black glitter bat-wing headband
A pair of glittery black boots with purple laces and a bat-wing detail, plus a pair of black mesh tights
HELL YES.
I'm sorry, were you expecting more? LOOK AT IT. I NEED IT. Thank you, that is all. She was also my favorite when the surveys leaked so at least I'm consistent. And ghosty was a close second.
And now it's time for CLAUDIE. FINALLY.
Claudie's Travel Accessories // $40
Item#HPN42
Claudie is so excited for her road trip to visit family in Georgia. She’s all set for the journey with a suitcase full of travel necessities and favorite care items.
Premium features:
An authentic 1920s-style brown suitcase with a faux-leather look and a gold-hued interior that holds all of Claudie’s travel essentials
A pretend bar of Madam C.J. Walker perfumed soap and a tin of Madam C.J. Walker’s “Wonderful Hair Grower” hair crème—part of a line of beauty products created especially for Black women’s skin and hair by Harlem entrepreneur and salon owner Madam C.J. Walker
Also includes:
A fabric toiletry pouch with a zipper closure, a folding faux-wood toothbrush that Claudie can hold, and a pretend bottle of rose tooth powder
A butterfly-shaped faux tortoise-shell hair comb
A handheld mirror with a faux-wood frame that Claudie can hold
It's been awhile since I've seen (and felt) such a change in how people felt about something. At first it was "YES!" and then the plastic suitcase became obvious and we hit the floor hard. NO. It's not even that it's plastic, it's that it looks bad. It doesn't help that in the first little IG video I saw of the set, the bag also looked super ...plasticy? I'm not sure if it's just that filming in AG stores does tend to do weird things or what. But then people noticed the Madam C.J. Walker stuff and impressions went back up. It's been a ride, y'all. :P
Claudie's Travel Outfit // $34
Item#HPN41
Claudie wants to look her best when she travels from Harlem to Georgia to meet Mama’s side of the family for the first time. This summery outfit keeps her cool and comfortable on the exciting road trip with Mama and Cousin Sidney.
Includes:
A white long-sleeved midi dress with an allover navy polka-dot pattern, a navy ribbon tied at the collar, and a drop waist with a pleated skirt
A tan woven straw hat with a navy-blue ribbon tied in a bow around the brim
A pair of tan lace-up boots and white knit socks
I didn't expect to love this as much as I do. I'm not sure why, since navy blue and white are classic for a reason. It's gorgeous and very spring/summery, which is why it's a bit sad they waited til August to release it but whatever. I'm glad she finally got something new and that this seems to be done well. ♥
Claudie's Christmas Accessories // $34
Item#HPN44
From favorite traditions to special surprises, Claudie delights in the joys of Christmas.
Premium features:
A plush Velveteen Rabbit and a doll-sized The Velveteen Rabbit storybook—a gift Claudie might have spied in the window of Hart and Company, Inc., and hoped to unwrap on Christmas morning
Includes:
A metal cookie tin that holds three pretend Christmas cookies with fruit filling—a special holiday treat from Angelo’s Bakery
A pretend handwritten postcard from Claudie to her grandmother in Georgia
A working yo-yo (known as a quiz in Claudie’s time) that was a Christmas gift from Mama
Nothing short of the postcard says Christmas about this set. But I do like how it calls back memories of Samantha's set (Sam seeing the doll in the window and wanting it), so there's my holiday tie in. I suppose it makes sense to not make it overtly Christmas-y but at the same time they're the ones naming the blasted things so... eh. It's a cute set and of the two, it's probably the one I'd actually buy. I have heard the book itself is giving very big "you could do this yourself for far cheaper" vibes though.
Claudie's Winter Coat // $40
Item#HPN43
Claudie bundles up in her cozy holiday coat as she soaks in the special sights and sounds of Harlem at Christmastime.
Includes:
A mint-green winter coat with a rounded faux-fur-trimmed collar, a faux-fur pom-pom tie at the neckline, black accent buttons, and gold and black sparkly trim
A mint-green faux-wool beret topped with a white faux-fur pom-pom
A white faux-fur muff to warm up Claudie’s hands or be worn around her neck
My god, this is pretty. I love this shade of green and I'm all for more green doll outfits anyway. Love this style, love that Claudie gets something pretty to go with her cute travel outfit and basically just imagine heart eyes all over the place for this. ♥ ♥
Overall, I think Claudie's stuff is mostly a hit and I'm glad because sweet Jesus, it took forever for them to give her new stuff but it was mostly worth the wait. I hope they all sell well so maybe we'll get more for her.
We're gonna start with the Birthstone Series and you might or might not remember the survey images we discussed last year when those appeared. If not, that's cool. I've got you covered:
And honestly? They stuck pretty true to this.
We begin in January, who probably had the most changes.
January Gorgeous Garnet Outfit // $52
Item#HPT25
With rich red hues and head-to-toe sparkle, she’ll showcase trendsetting style and celebrate her special month with this gemstone-inspired ensemble.
Premium features:
A sparkling garnet-hued outfit featuring a jacket embellished with red gemstones across the chest and glitter-knit sleeves, a glitter-knit tank top, and a skirt with a raschel overlay and gem-encrusted ribbon detail
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-garnet gem
Also includes:
A red glitter-knit newsboy cap and a pair of dark-red glittery platform sneakers with white laces and striped soles
A guide detailing personality traits associated with each gemstone and showcasing all outfits in the collection
I love the person who is trying to justify the prices for these by saying "b-b-but the gemstones!" Ma'am, have you ever BEEN to a craft store? They might not have shit these days but they still have gemstones and they do not make up the price difference here, k? AG wants this line to be fancy and if they slap on enough sparkle and charge enough, it will be special, goddammit. :P
That said, I think this one is my favorite. So uh, awkward when we get to Ruby, huh? I think the shoes are cute, I don't mind the pants from the promo being swapped out for a skirt because I really do like the skirt, and the top combo is more work than I would put in for myself, it's the type of thing I like in doll clothes. I'm not really sold on the cap but like... it's there and it's fine. If any of them get me for full price, it'll be this one. I also really like the boxes for this line.
I'm only including the bit about the guide being included here, but it's obviously included with each outfit.
Amazing Amethyst Outfit // $52
Item#HPT26
Purple perfection! Whether honoring a birthday month or sporting a signature color, she’s sure to dazzle in this amethyst-inspired ensemble.
Premium features:
An allover amethyst-hued outfit featuring an ombre A-line dress with gems along the V-neckline and skirt hem, plus a sheer coat with a bold faux-fur-trimmed collar, faux-fur-trimmed sleeves, and gemstone embellishments
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-amethyst gem and two purple barrettes with gems
Also includes:
A pair of strappy purple platform sandals with gems
This is giving me serious Janet Howell goes to a party vibes and that's not the compliment she'd assume it was. I would normally be on board for the shoes, but even though the real pics on IG make the color seem less purple grey putty, it's still not nearly sparkly enough. At least the promo spackled gems all over the straps for the shoes.
March Gleaming Aquamarine Outfit // $52
Item#HPT27
Showstopping style meets serene aquamarine in this birthstone-inspired ensemble.
Premium features:
An allover aquamarine-colored dress with gathered mesh pouf sleeves and neckline, gems along the sweetheart bodice and satin ribbon waistband, and a gathered skirt with two tiers of mesh
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-aquamarine gem and a rhinestone ponytail holder with three gemstones
Also includes:
A pair of strappy aqua platform sandals with gems
Four sets of adhesive faux-aquamarine earrings
Absolutely not. I love the color but oh, my god, just no. The big poofy sleeves are just...I can't. Words continue to fail me. It is pretty much exactly like the proto pic but oof. I will say that my brain keeps trying to turn this into a skating outfit and when it does make those needed changes, I'm far more forgiving. But as it is, other than the color and lowkey loving the shoes (I was a teen in the late 90's, I am obligated to either love or loathe platform shoes and I love them in theory.)
April Dazzling Diamond Outfit // $52
Item#HPT28
She’ll strike a platinum pose and shine bright in this diamond-inspired set.
Premium features:
A shimmering silver ensemble featuring a layered metallic tinsel crop jacket, a star-print raschel tank top with a gemstone neckline, and a star-print raschel skirt with faux-diamond gems
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-diamond gem and a pair of silver sunglasses with gemstone details
Also includes:
A pair of strappy silver sandals with glitter and gems
If March is the dress the mean girl in a cheesy teen show/movie wears to the big dance, this is the outfit the quirky best friend wears. And I love it. I hate the jacket but also love just how OTT this whole damn thing is. I'm wondering how it fares without the jacket though. I never said my taste was any good, ok?
May Enchanting Emerald Outfit // $52
Item#HPT29
Groovy and glam, this emerald-inspired outfit serves up superstar style with a vintage flair.
Premium features:
An emerald-green swirl-print romper with mesh split long sleeves, a V-neckline adorned with gemstones, and a glittery ribbon sash with a gem detail at the waist
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-emerald gem
Also includes:
Tall green platform boots with gem details, glittery toes, and chunky soles
A glittery green headband
And this is the outfit the mom wears to chaperone the way back dance to show she's still hot but also to remind you that she's just a touch out of step. I don't hate it but I have complicated feelings. I kinda love the boots and if the headband is better than their usual style, I think the glittery green is fab. I just think this doll looks a bit like her face is melting and it's throwing me off. I'd totally buy this on sale.
June Exquisite Alexandrite Outfit // $52
Item#HPT30
Powerful purple hues pair up in this sporty-chic ensemble—perfect for celebrating a special birthstone or showcasing signature style.
Premium features:
A purple alexandrite-inspired outfit featuring a romper with a glitter-knit bodice, gemstone-embellished neckline, and taffeta pouf sleeves and shorts, plus a sheer pleated midi skirt overlay with open front and a jewel-tone ombre pattern
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-alexandrite gem and a faux pearl on each side
Also includes:
A purple glitter-knit cap with a sparkly inset design and a pair of purple sneakers with glittery toes, blue laces, and striped soles
I see the alliteration train has derailed. I hate, hate, HATE the overlay. But if it's not permanently attached, I don't hate the romper. The shoes are cute-adjacent, though I do think they'd work better with just the alexandrite gems, while the pearl touches are nice on the romper's neckline.
July Remarkable Ruby Outfit // $52
Item#HPT31
Radiant ruby hues and high-fashion fringe combine for a birthstone-inspired look that sparkles from head to toe.
Premium features:
A ruby-hued outfit featuring a cropped jacket adorned with gemstones and an elongated fringed hem, a geometric-print tank top, and shorts with a geometric-print waistband, gemstones, and a ribbon detail
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-ruby gem
Also includes:
A pair of red boots with gemstones and glittery soles, a glittery red headband, and 4 sets of adhesive faux-ruby earrings
What in the Texan fried hell. I was all ready to reluctantly try and defend this and then I zoomed in and it just got so much worse. The pleather. The fringe. The boots that do not have the glittery platform as promised by the promo. The headband fits about as well as I'd feared, though I am telling myself that she's got pigtails so maybe it's not AS bad... but the whole thing makes this July birthday having person sad. If I could kill the fringe, I'd love the jacket. Fringe like that is just...why. I'm wishing they'd just gone all the way in on the cowgirl from hell vibe and swapped the headband for a cowboy hat.
August Phenomenal Peridot Outfit // $52
Item#HPT32
She’ll show off a peridot glow in this gorgeous green gemstone-inspired outfit, ideal for August birthdays and fashion mavens alike.
Premium features:
A bright-green drop-waist raschel dress with an off-the-shoulder mesh ruffle neckline and spaghetti straps, gathered front detail with glittery ribbons, and a gemstone-adorned raschel skirt with a mesh underskirt
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-peridot gem
Also includes:
A pair of glittery green platform sandals with gemstones along the strap, a pair of green sunglasses with green lenses, and 4 sets of adhesive faux-peridot earrings
Lori nailed it when she said this was toddler Tinker Bell. And yet I can't fully write it off, but I think it's the reverse of May's outfit/doll combo, where this time I like the doll and that improves the outfit.
September Sparkling Sapphire Outfit // $52
Item#HPT33
This true-blue two-piece set is a sapphire celebration—perfect for celebrating September birthdays or showcasing bold blue colorways.
Premium features:
A sapphire-blue ensemble featuring a top with a gathered gemstone-adorned bodice, sweetheart neckline, smocked waist, and gathered raschel sleeves with ribbons, plus a pair of flared raschel pants with gems at the hem
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-sapphire gem
Also includes:
A flouncy blue beret and a pair of blue platform sandals with crisscross straps
I forget who called this the Mama Mia outfit when the survey pics leaked but that's how my brain has categorized it ever since. It's also the outfit I'd be tempted second most to spend full price money on. I kinda love that shirt, those shoes are cute (they need more sparkle, dammit) and I can never get berets to look good on dolls but this blue is so damn pretty. And Ivy says she'll just take it, thank you.
October Twinkling Tourmaline Outfit // $52
Item#HPT34
Pink and plaid are the perfect pairing in this gemstone-inspired style that gives a nod to the ‘90s.
Includes:
A tourmaline-pink ensemble featuring an iridescent pink foil jacket with gems along the front and striped trim, a glitter-knit tank top, and a plaid skater-style skirt
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-tourmaline gem and a faux-opal gem on each side
Also includes:
A pair of pink iridescent platform boots with glittery toes and two elastic hair accessories with iridescent pink pom-poms
Gimme opals, you cowards! Curse a generation of children, you wimps. I mean uh... Ahem. I guess, like June, they did include opals here but it took me entirely too long to notice them because the pink eats them. The top doesn't feel balanced somehow. I must admit I love the boots though. The jacket's different and the hair poms are cute. With the 90's mention, I do wonder whether they intentionally set out to nod to different decades or if it just kind of happened. *muse* I'd buy this on sale.
This is another one that's just different enough from the promos to mention but I don't dislike the changes when I think about them realistically. The promo gives the illusion of sheer iridiscent sleeves but I don't think that'd actually work well. And I like how the boots are actually done so I'm fine with that change.
November Shimmering Citrine Outfit // $52
Item#HPT35
Fall in love with this bold birthstone-inspired look that brings together all her faves: bright color, plush texture, and serious sparkle.
Premium features:
A citrine-colored ensemble featuring a cotton checkered print dress with an orange belt and gem details, an orange faux-fur jacket with an oversized lapel collar and gemstones, and a knit beanie with gemstones along the front
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-citrine gem
Also includes:
A pair of orange platform high-top sneakers with gems and striped soles
I take it back. I'd get this one second. I don't even mind the muppet jacket and I'd like to think the dress would work without it. Hell, I'm not even sure I wouldn't get this before January just because it's different. *muse*
December Blue Beauty Topaz Outfit // $52
Item#HPT36
Shimmery-blue and cool as ice, this blue topaz birthstone-inspired ensemble is a dream for December birthdays and streetwear-chic fashion fans.
Premium features:
A blue topaz-colored outfit featuring a satin puffer jacket with a collar and rib-knit trim, a knit tank top with gem details, and a printed ombre skirt with a side slit and gems along the waistband
A satin ribbon choker with a center faux-blue-topaz gem
Also includes:
A pair of barrettes with three gems on each and a pair of blue platform low-top sneakers with gems, striped soles, and glittery toes
-_- I have questions, like why is December the only one to show us what the top looks like without the jacket? Why is the skirt printed in the same way the CYO stuff is printed? Meh. I like the accessories for this one- the hair clips are cute, the shoes are yet another pair I wouldn't mind owning, and I even kind of like the jacket oddly enough. But yeah, this isn't a $52 outfit, AG.
And according to this, December is the only month AG doesn't have a character birthday for. Do you think maybe GOTY 24 will change that?
Overall, it's an odd collection. On the one hand, they're likely not banking on too many people buying them all, but they do have to hope a few do. And as a set, they aren't super cohesive beyond a sea of chokers.
AHA! I knew I could dig up my thoughts from the survey time:
Would buy right now if I had the funds and they were available:
May. Those boots. The showmanship of the look. But mostly the boots. - I mean... I still maintain the boots are nifty.
September. Someone called the overall line very Mama Mia but this is the one that screams that most to me. And while I visibly recoiled when it first loaded, it's the one I couldn't stop thinking about. Could be absolute trash in reality but I do find myself loving it somehow. Also accessories! Hat, earrings, and necklace. - How did past!me not notice they all had chokers? I guess because some look more than just ribbons with gems stamped on them. Also, see? Mama Mia.
October. Look, you cowards, make opals the theme. I know you can do iridescent stuff. Actually, the jacket sleeves probably are. Anyway, that said, I really like this and I'm not normally a pink person. I just think it's cute as hell. -*snort*
November. GIMME. NOW. I probably won't like the jacket (it looks fuzzy so it could be good or gross feeling) but that dress. GIMME. - See? I can be consistent sometimes.
Mmm maybe? Need more info:
Jan. It's red so the likelihood of stains went way up and the pants are interesting. Could be awesome, could be awful, too soon to tell. - RIP, pants.
April. Are you silver? If so, I'd probably cave even if the jacket is very much wtf. Are you grey? If so, disappointment. - The jacket IS wtf, past!me, but it's silver so yay.
July. See Jan's red problem but now add fringe to that. I would likely cave on this one simply because it's my birth month but again, this doll is cute and she's clouding my judgment. But also earrings and necklace again! - Ohhhh, honey, no.
December. Don't like puffy jacket but could like other bits. - I like that this one is my biggest change of heart.
Ummm...:
Feb. I have many questions. What is that jacket. What is that neckline. Those shoes. How big are the gems? Is that just to show they're going to have gems or are they planning on them being massive? I love this doll and will be buying her and you'll see why in the next section, btw. - And to think, them not being massive is one of the problems with the shoes. But I was right about the doll.
March. Should probably have gone into the mebbe section but I feel like this one is either going to be super awful (those sleeves!) or amazing (those shoes!) and I'm not really sure which way it'll fall. -Awful, past!me. Awful.
June. I love the colors. I could get on board with the shoes and the necklace is cute. I... cannot with the hat and the... skirt? Overlay thing? What is that? Why? Maybe without the hat I could but it's a weird mashup. The shoes and hat want it to be girly casual and the other thing wants to be something else entirely. -it wants to be fug, self. That's all. I really do need to look up whether it's one piece or not.
August. This is the one I think that'll be most affected by fabric choices. It could take this from "huh, interesting" to surprisingly awesome or down to "wow, not even Walmart would try this shit." - Same, past!me. Same.
Halloween also had survey options, so let's move onto that, shall we?
JUSTICE FOR THE GHOST.
I mean, uh...
So. We've re-released last year's Skelly, so I won't be covering that beyond a shot with the new treat set. We also recolored the witch costume from teal to pink.
Chants and Charms Witch Costume // $40
Item#HRN81
Brew up some fun this Halloween—or during dress-up time—in this shiny, spooky witch costume.
Includes:
A black rainbow-foil dress with a mesh neckline, a magenta satin underskirt, and an attached belt with a shiny buckle
A black rainbow-foil hat with a magenta ribbon around it
A pair of multi-foil-print fingerless gloves with thumb holes
A pair of black glitter boots and striped knit socks
A broom with a handle for the doll to hold as she rides
Corinne is still in the teal version from last year. I should probably make sure she hasn't been stained to hell and back, huh? I'm kinda miffed they just recolored this pink but I also really like black and pink with rainbow sprinkles so... I can't say I won't cave at some point.
Trick or Treat Candy Costume // $40
Item#HPN02
She’ll be sweeter than any candy she collects in this cute candy-corn costume.
Includes:
A dress with a black satin bodice with dimensional bows, white satin puff sleeves, and a four-layer satin skirt in candy-corn colors
A pair of black-and-white polka-dot leggings
A headband with an attached witch hat in candy-corn colors and a black-and-white polka-dot band with a bow
A pair of glittery orange sneakers with stripes along the sides
I want to like this more than I think I do. I do wonder if I'd like it more without the leggings. *muse* The shoes are cute and now I want candy corn. This feels very much like something a person who doesn't like the scary parts of Halloween would put together for their kid. I wish they'd leaned a little more into the witch aspect or maybe just made the hat a bit bigger? It'd still be a tiny cute hat.
Trick or Treat Set // $28
Item#HKN07
There are no tricks to be found among this sweet Halloween haul!
Includes:
A jack-o’-lantern treat bucket with a handle that dolls can hold and plenty of pretend candy to fill it: a set of two American Girl® brand chocolate-covered graham crackers, a jack-o’-lantern lollipop, a ghost lollipop, a serving of popcorn mixed with candy corn and chocolate candy pieces, and a box of candy corn
I dunno, AG, I'd consider that unholy popcorn abomination a trick. I'd also say it's VERY generous to say the dolls can hold that pail, but I do like that they included holders for the lollipops because the having to slot them JUST SO to get a doll to hold them looks fucking stupid. So good on them for realizing that. Gonna admit I'm kind of happy the popcorn ball looks disgusting because I was worried AG had finally turned the corner on making their doll food look okay. :P Seriously though, the lollipops are cute and I know this set is overpriced for what it is, but have we met? Did you miss the year round Halloween love? Of course I want this.
Midnight Bat Costume // $40
Item#HPM99
She’ll go batty on Halloween night—or during dress-up time—with this eerily cute costume.
Includes:
A black long-sleeved romper with an iridescent purple bodice and iridescent purple bat wings
A black glitter bat-wing headband
A pair of glittery black boots with purple laces and a bat-wing detail, plus a pair of black mesh tights
HELL YES.
I'm sorry, were you expecting more? LOOK AT IT. I NEED IT. Thank you, that is all. She was also my favorite when the surveys leaked so at least I'm consistent. And ghosty was a close second.
And now it's time for CLAUDIE. FINALLY.
Claudie's Travel Accessories // $40
Item#HPN42
Claudie is so excited for her road trip to visit family in Georgia. She’s all set for the journey with a suitcase full of travel necessities and favorite care items.
Premium features:
An authentic 1920s-style brown suitcase with a faux-leather look and a gold-hued interior that holds all of Claudie’s travel essentials
A pretend bar of Madam C.J. Walker perfumed soap and a tin of Madam C.J. Walker’s “Wonderful Hair Grower” hair crème—part of a line of beauty products created especially for Black women’s skin and hair by Harlem entrepreneur and salon owner Madam C.J. Walker
Also includes:
A fabric toiletry pouch with a zipper closure, a folding faux-wood toothbrush that Claudie can hold, and a pretend bottle of rose tooth powder
A butterfly-shaped faux tortoise-shell hair comb
A handheld mirror with a faux-wood frame that Claudie can hold
It's been awhile since I've seen (and felt) such a change in how people felt about something. At first it was "YES!" and then the plastic suitcase became obvious and we hit the floor hard. NO. It's not even that it's plastic, it's that it looks bad. It doesn't help that in the first little IG video I saw of the set, the bag also looked super ...plasticy? I'm not sure if it's just that filming in AG stores does tend to do weird things or what. But then people noticed the Madam C.J. Walker stuff and impressions went back up. It's been a ride, y'all. :P
Claudie's Travel Outfit // $34
Item#HPN41
Claudie wants to look her best when she travels from Harlem to Georgia to meet Mama’s side of the family for the first time. This summery outfit keeps her cool and comfortable on the exciting road trip with Mama and Cousin Sidney.
Includes:
A white long-sleeved midi dress with an allover navy polka-dot pattern, a navy ribbon tied at the collar, and a drop waist with a pleated skirt
A tan woven straw hat with a navy-blue ribbon tied in a bow around the brim
A pair of tan lace-up boots and white knit socks
I didn't expect to love this as much as I do. I'm not sure why, since navy blue and white are classic for a reason. It's gorgeous and very spring/summery, which is why it's a bit sad they waited til August to release it but whatever. I'm glad she finally got something new and that this seems to be done well. ♥
Claudie's Christmas Accessories // $34
Item#HPN44
From favorite traditions to special surprises, Claudie delights in the joys of Christmas.
Premium features:
A plush Velveteen Rabbit and a doll-sized The Velveteen Rabbit storybook—a gift Claudie might have spied in the window of Hart and Company, Inc., and hoped to unwrap on Christmas morning
Includes:
A metal cookie tin that holds three pretend Christmas cookies with fruit filling—a special holiday treat from Angelo’s Bakery
A pretend handwritten postcard from Claudie to her grandmother in Georgia
A working yo-yo (known as a quiz in Claudie’s time) that was a Christmas gift from Mama
Nothing short of the postcard says Christmas about this set. But I do like how it calls back memories of Samantha's set (Sam seeing the doll in the window and wanting it), so there's my holiday tie in. I suppose it makes sense to not make it overtly Christmas-y but at the same time they're the ones naming the blasted things so... eh. It's a cute set and of the two, it's probably the one I'd actually buy. I have heard the book itself is giving very big "you could do this yourself for far cheaper" vibes though.
Claudie's Winter Coat // $40
Item#HPN43
Claudie bundles up in her cozy holiday coat as she soaks in the special sights and sounds of Harlem at Christmastime.
Includes:
A mint-green winter coat with a rounded faux-fur-trimmed collar, a faux-fur pom-pom tie at the neckline, black accent buttons, and gold and black sparkly trim
A mint-green faux-wool beret topped with a white faux-fur pom-pom
A white faux-fur muff to warm up Claudie’s hands or be worn around her neck
My god, this is pretty. I love this shade of green and I'm all for more green doll outfits anyway. Love this style, love that Claudie gets something pretty to go with her cute travel outfit and basically just imagine heart eyes all over the place for this. ♥ ♥
Overall, I think Claudie's stuff is mostly a hit and I'm glad because sweet Jesus, it took forever for them to give her new stuff but it was mostly worth the wait. I hope they all sell well so maybe we'll get more for her.