Finally, AG's Feb Release Roundup part 1
Feb. 21st, 2017 12:12 pm![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
impy*stretches* Get comfy, folks, because this is gonna be a long one. Or two. We'll see. First up, news from the AG front because honestly, let's try and contain things as much as possible. If, like me, you actually wanted Gabby's Rehearsal Outfit, you're currently SOL because it's on backorder til August. Rumor has it that it's due to the shoddy new packaging and the number of complaints/returns due to holes in the outfit. I'd imagine her PJs might also get new packaging because their reviews are abysmal. On the one hand, I'm happy if we're getting new non-sewn in packaging and that AG is learning the error of their ways. On the other hand, Gabby's collection isn't exactly big enough at the moment to withstand possibly the most popular item (and it is) being on serious backorder.
Other news: if you were looking into getting Tenney or nu!Lyssie, make damn sure you check their lips really carefully as I've seen numerous posts about the lip paint rubbing off. And these aren't from the homes with kids or overzealous snugglers or cats who knock things over. We're talking the lips just chip off.
Finally, American Girl, I have some free advice for you. If you want to make more money/more sales, stop cutting corners on the product and simply offer free shipping all the damn time. Seriously. Free shipping. Always. Either on new products, no matter how much someone spends, or offer free shipping at a certain price point. The Wellies have had free shipping since they launched and they've made you so much money I suspect someone's got to be getting their Scrooge McDuck on at this point and part of that is due, yes, to having them available at other retailers, but the free shipping helps! If you give people time to spend their money elsewhere, they will. Don't let them overthink a non-essential purchase... and you're a toy company so all purchases are non-essential. Free shipping. You'll be swimming in money, even from those who vowed never to purchase again. Because free shipping is magic. Just look at your sales before you moved to targeted codes. Anytime free shipping leaked from a catalog code, people went nuts.
Wellie Wishers
The Wellies didn't get a ton of new stuff, but they did get some and well... I mentioned them above so it's only right to start with them now. Also, I'm totally easing into this massive post of pain. :p
Playful Garden Washtub Set // $48
Item #DXX04
The WellieWishers love stomping through puddles and making mud pies, so having a washtub right in Aunt Miranda’s garden makes perfect sense! This set includes:
An old-fashioned washtub trimmed with a band of fun flowers and a W logo
A pretty purple corner fence that holds the washing station, with plenty of hooks for hanging things. The washing station has a faucet shaped like a duck and a garden-hose flower. On the back of the fence is a wheel crank—turn it, and bubbles come bouncing out!
A pink towel
Pretend soap
A bath brush the WellieWishers can use for scrubbing in the tub
For those mud-caked wellies, there’s a boot scraper shaped like a hedgehog
Please note that bubble solution is not included. Since you can get a multipack of those down at the drugstore for a buck, I'm not going to fuss about that.
Honestly, this is cute as hell. The details really make this set pop. The towel looks just okay in the video but the close up? Swoon. The hedgehog boot scraper is adorable! I love the back brush and that both brushes seem to actually be functional and not plastic clumped bristles. I won't be buying it for a variety of reasons (price, space, not really my thing) but as a kid, I'd have been all over this.
Fun Fish Swimsuit Coverup // $24
Item#DYP40
Her doll will make waves in this undersea-themed swimsuit. The set includes a matching blue hooded cover-up, sandals, and a faux-pearl headband.
Let's take a moment and accept the fact that the swimsuit is the most realistic additional outfit to be made available aside from the PJs. Weird. Anyway, it's cute and I want. Let me rephrase. I'm not as sold on the swimsuit itself as I am on the coverup. Which is adorable and I neeeeeeeeed. *grabby hands*The only reason I haven't ordered this yet (because remember: free shipping!) is because I'm still awaiting that call/apology. Got my call, got my apology, why am I still waiting? :p
Marvelous Mermaid Outfit // $20
Item#DYP39
Her WellieWishers doll will feel at one with the ocean waves in this shimmering, shining costume, a favorite of Camille’s. It features a blue scale print, satin ruffles, and a sweet starfish accent at the neckline. It comes with a mermaid crown headband with starfish-and-scallop details.
Sometimes you just sit back and accept that you are so not the intended audience that you don't really even have an opinion. Mermaid costume, why not. I won't be buying, but I'm not gonna knock it either. You do you, Wellie Wishers. Keep fighting the good free shipping fight. Oh, and this is very clearly tied to the new book, Camille's Mermaid Tale.
You've got the little girl version of the swimsuit/coverup outfit and a fun fish charm for girls as well.
Bitty Baby
I know, we normally ignore the BB stuff, but since a lot of people were positive this dress was going to be for Melody, I had to share. Also, the playset is just amusing the hell out of me right now so there's that. :p
Sunny Flowers Dress // $28
Item#DYL43
Bitty Baby is all set for warm-weather fun with this pretty two-layered outfit. It includes:
A dress with an under-layer of bold multicolored stripes, sweetly softened by the white floral eyelet top layer featuring a Peter Pan collar and pleats
Cute pale-blue shoes
A matching headband with a big satin bow
Honestly, when someone got this via the grey market, I was pretty sure with the shoes shown that it had to be for Bitty. Still, I think it's cute both on BB and on the bigger dolls and it's interesting so I might buy it.
Seaside Fun Shape Bucket and Tools // $20
Item#DYC01
Bitty Baby will have oceans of fun at the beach with this colorful play set. It includes:
A bucket topped with a lid shaped like a smiling crab
A doll-sized rake and shovel, which snap into the crab’s claws
Three cute animal stacking toys—a whale, turtle, and crab
This is so cute, I'm gonna die. SO CUTE. The only thing that keeps this from being perfect is that the animals don't fit in the bucket. Seriously, for a kid, this would have the animals fitting in the bucket to make beach time easier. But um, yes. Yes I do have this on my wishlist.
Truly Me:
Covered most of this before but what the heck, let's go all in.
Bright and Splashy Tankini // $28
Item#DYP30
Get set for sun and fun with this bright swimsuit and bottle of pretend sunscreen! It features an orange-and-pink tankini top with double satin straps, a bikini bottom, a double-strap headband, and orange flip-flops.
Look, AG, if I'm gonna burn out my retinas with orange and pink, I'm gonna do so with Julie's bathroom, not this. Also, I hate pink and orange. And pink and yellow. And pink and most shades of green, really. Pink is not as universal a color as you seem to think is my point. I think.
Easter Basket // $28
Item#DYP35
Girls can hide a special Easter basket for their dolls! This set includes:
A pretty white doll-sized basket
Pretend grass
A faux-chocolate bunny
A fabric bunny
A pretend set of eggs
Play jelly beans
A doll necklace and gift box
A card and envelope
A sheet of stickers for personalization
This is a case of the new packaging being a serious deal breaker for some. If I'm less lazy, I will find a picture of the packaging and share, but basically it looks awfully similar to OG (Target's line) packaging and people are less than thrilled at being charged AG prices for something that at best looks like the Target line and at worst looks more like the Walmart line.
Looking at the close-ups, the bunny still looks funny and the clumped jellybeans are reminding me of cat vomit. :p Really, the only thing I'm super interested in is the necklace since I'm pretty sure the chocolate bunny is just like the one in Kit's set from a few years back (that I think is still available on the sale page, btw). If this goes on sale at a free shipping time, I'd buy. If not and I don't fall in love with it in store should we make it to the store sometime soon, I'll live.
Bright Blooms Dress // $28
Item#DYP31
Her doll will be party-perfect in this outfit! The floral-print organza dress is lined in taffeta and features an attached satin ribbon at the waist with rhinestone details. It includes a headband with a big organza bow and patent T-strap sandals.
Dammit, PT, by now there should be at least one review or picture of this thing in the wild. But no. Nothing. I can't tell if my indifference to this dress is because I dislike the picture they've chosen to promote it or if it's the actual dress. I suspect this is one I will be looking at most carefully in store, again assuming we go.
Ballet Class Outfit // $28
Item#DYP28
She can practice pirouettes in this six-piece outfit! It includes:
A pink leotard with satin elastic and silver stud details
A silver glitter-knit cropped sweater
Pink tights
Gray leg warmers
Pink ballet shoes
A pink satin elastic headband
Still looks like something Izzy would've cooked up. Price wise, it's not bad for all you get. Far better than the previous set (which was still on the sale page as of this morning) which was damn near $50? $60? to get all the pieces. Of the TM stuff, this is probably my favorite but my brain keeps trying to give #55 there brown eyes and then I think of Lila Fowler sooooooo... really, it's the Lila effect. :p But then I see the Ombre Ballet costume (the blue one) and I remember that I want that so much more.
Star Volleyball Outfit // $34
Item#DYP27
She’s geared up and in position to play! This seven-piece set includes:
A jersey with a volleyball graphic
Shorts with a star graphic
Socks with star print
Knee pads
Shoes with elastic laces
A purple headband
A volleyball with star graphic
Still a solid shrug from me. It's not bad, I like the colors, I just don't have a burning need for a volleyball outfit.
Beach Cooler Set // $28
Item#DYP26
Set up a doll picnic anywhere with this sunny beach cooler! It's packed with yummy pretend food, including 2 orange drinks, 2 wrapped deli sandwiches, a serving of sweet berries, and 2 sets of pretend ice, too!
Hey, look, something that makes sense to have things clumped together. (The ice.) This is definitely a maybe for a sale price and a no if not on sale. But now I want an orange dreamsicle.
BeForever
Felicity:
We begin with Felicity because, well, she's the new launch even if she's only available online and at the flagship stores. Probably because if all the other stores got this small collection they would wonder WTF at the size of her 'collection.' Flagship stores, btw, are LA, NYC, and Chicago.
Felicity Doll and Paperback // $115
Item#DYL15
Spunky, spritely Felicity Merriman has sparkling green eyes that open and close, and long auburn hair. She comes in an authentic 1770s-style outfit:
A traditional floral patterned blue-and-yellow dress with a scoop neck, short sleeves with ribbon detail, bustling in the back, and an attached contrast petticoat
White knee-high stockings
Sturdy black shoes with golden decorative buckles
The 18" Felicity doll has a huggable cloth body, and her movable head and limbs are made of smooth vinyl. Includes the paperback book Love and Loyalty, the first novel-length volume of Felicity’s classic series.
It's funny that AG's stock photos show her with the laser eyes (or something similar) but in reality all the new Felicitys have an emerald green eye color that is making me wish for her quite a bit more than I anticipated. AG has promised that they have more in store for Felicity, so here's hoping that's not just spin.
Felicity's BeForever Outfit // $36
Item#DXN98
Felicity loves to stroll through Williamsburg, visit her father’s shop, and explore in this authentic 1770s outfit. It features:
A traditional floral brocade blue-and-yellow dress with a scoop neck, short sleeves with ribbon detail, and bustling in the back
White knee-high stockings
Sturdy brown shoes with golden decorative buckles
Huzzah, you can buy just her outfit! I'm still not 100% sold on it because the proportions look... off. Like the front looks like it should be an inch or two lower all around and the back... I don't have any reference for what it should look like, but I suspect that is not really the best picture of how it should look. And naturally no one's fully reviewed new!Lyssie yet. Sigh. This is on my To Buy list because I've found that in terms of Felicity's things, it's always better to regret purchasing than to regret not purchasing.
Felicity's Accessories // $24
Item#DXN99
Felicity can top off her outfit with the perfect accessories for a summer stroll through 1770s Williamsburg:
A hat with ribbon trim
A mob cap to wear under the hat
A fichu to protect her neck from the sun
A pretty beaded necklace
I was going to tick of all the things I wanted from this set and then I realized I want it all. Seriously, I've been wanting a plain mob cap for ages and for what Etsy/Ebay charge, I can get all of Felicity's other goodies as well! Honestly, I'm likely to pick up a couple of these simply for the mob caps. :p Coral necklaces for all!
Felicity's Undergarments // $28
Item#DXP00
In Felicity’s day, girls wore these undergarments beneath their dresses:
A white scoop-neck chemise that served as the first layer of clothing or could be used as a nightgown
Quilted stays with functional lace ribbon and fashionable tapestry print that provided a foundation for the top layers of clothing
A bumroll with ties to go around the waist and fasten on top of the chemise and stays; it was used to achieve lift at the back of the skirt for a true 1770s silhouette
Onnnnnn the one hand, I get why people are ticked that her shift is included in this set and not with the doll like it always was before. On the other hand, undergarment set! Sooooo... yes. If I didn't have Felicity already, I'd probably be more pitchfork-y. But I do and thus I already have her shift, so I can see this as getting a second one and it helps off-set the price of the set. Not by much considering how stupidly simple it is, but still, sometimes with AG it's all in the spin you tell yourself.
Maryellen:
Maryellen Flamingo Swim Outfit // $34
Item#DXP08
Maryellen is ready to make a splash with this bright swim outfit! It includes:
A one-piece flamingo-print swimsuit with a bloomer bottom
Two-tone sandals with knotted bows and ankle straps
A pink hair ribbon attached to a ponytail holder
A fabulous flamingo-shaped purse
Spiffy pink cat-eye sunglasses
Stop making me want Maryellen, AG. Honestly, this outfit is cuter than it has any right to be, really. I think my favorite thing about it (aside from the shoes and that purse!) is how it's the opposite of the Bitty dress mentioned at the start of all this. People were positive it was for Bitty Baby and still scoff at it. I got nothing as far as historical accuracy goes because that is not my area, much as I like learning about fashions from other eras, but the cute is strong here.
Julie's Basketball Accessories // $38
Item#DXP04
Practice makes perfect, and Julie hones her skills by doing drills with this hoop and ball. Set includes:
An adjustable basketball hoop
A basketball
A medal for when hard work pays off
I think with AG, I appreciate a lot of the sets far more than I would ever buy them, y'know? If I had my own house and I was able to put things wherever/whenever and not have to worry about things, or had a doll room, or hell, even still had the awesome doll closet this might come home just because it would make for an interesting set up. I like that AG is getting back to having sets where you can play at more than tea for one lonely doll. Shoot some hoops with Julie, guys. It'll be fun.
I will say I think it's odd they don't show Julie with the hoop for a size reference.
Julie's Basketball Uniform // $34
Item#DXP03
Julie’s ready to get out on the court and take on the competition in her team’s basketball uniform. It includes:
A sleeveless tank top with Julie’s number and team name (Go, Jaguars!)
A matching pair of shorts with an elastic waistband
A pair of knee-high tube socks with stripes representing the team’s colors
White shoes with navy stripes and laces
A basketball
Two yarn hair ties
This is a very, very simple uniform but it's stinkin' cute and I love that you get a basketball with it so you don't have to wait for/get the hoop if you want to kind of make your own for Julie but still play. I love blue and green together and these shades in particular work really well, plus I'm a sucker for pigtails and yes, eventually I will buy this. Never did get the original outfit, but I kind of like this one better. Possibly because my eyes aren't being drawn to the orange bag of death this go round. :p
Julie's Groovy Bathroom// $175
Item#DYK04
Julie loves the bathroom in her family’s new apartment, although she has to compete with her teenage sister, Tracy, for time in it. This make-believe set is full of ’70s style and details, and it folds up for storage with a convenient handle. It includes:
A sink on a pink vanity with bright orange trim
A floral-print shower curtain and hooks
A toilet that makes a flushing sound when the handle is pushed, complete with a funky faux-fur seat cover
A hamper with daisy graphics
A pretend hanging plant in a macrame holder
A wastebasket with a butterfly graphic
3 colored pretend soaps in a soap box
A head wrap and towel wrap for Julie
Pretend toothpaste, a toothbrush, and a toothbrush holder
2 hand towels and a towel holder
Pretend shampoo, perfume, and powder
A tissue box
A toilet paper roll and pack of toilet tissue
A hair dryer with two attachments
2 rainbow-colored hairbows
So the price was correct. To be honest, the person who leaked the price is reliable so I wasn't putting too much faith in this thing being cheaper but a girl can hope until the last possible second. Sigh.
I won't lie. There is a very, very real possibility of this thing coming home with me if I go to the store and have managed to accrue rewards points by then. It's so over the top and orange and yellow and the toilet makes flushing sounds! Tiny doll toilet! Doll TP! Working drawers! Decorate your own bathroom without having to clean everything up!
Plus, I think I figured out my other reason for being drawn to this aside from a love of the weird. The house I grew up in had three bathrooms (ooh, fancy but not really) and the powder room/half bath was painted yellow. Like eye-searing in the sunlight yellow. I'm pretty sure the sunshine yellow of that room is what my parents were attempting for the living room at the house where Widget was born but that didn't work. Thing is, that little bathroom worked in yellow because it was so small and only had one window and basically the yellow worked some magic. That still doesn't give this bathroom a pass with the orange and pink, but I have never claimed to be logical. Ever.
Julie's Peasant Top Outfit // $32
Item#DXP01
Spring is in the air, and Julie’s ready to enjoy the sunshine! This outfit includes:
A short-sleeved embroidered peasant top
A denim miniskirt
Platform sandals with yellow flower embroidery
The moment I notice free shipping is live and I'm near a computer, this is getting ordered. I'm not even sure a rash of terrible reviews would stop me but I hope to find some reviews of any sort on it complete with pictures because how cute is this? Totally Dawn Read Schafer approved. And thus, I need. Also, I totally love peasant blouses.
Julie's Floral Accessories // $24
Item#DXP02
Julie’s off to explore San Francisco with these groovy accessories:
An embroidered cross-body purse with special stitching along the edge
A daisy-chain headband with ribbon detail
A beautiful faux silver and turquoise cuff bracelet
This is one of those sets I like in theory but the bracelet seems to look weird on the doll and I don't love the purse or the headband so this is kind of meh for me. We'll see if my opinion changes over time.
Kit's Play Dress // $28
Item#DXP05
The days are getting longer, and Kit loves to enjoy the extra sunshine and fun with friends in this cheerful playtime outfit. Includes:
A flower-patterned dress
A pair of socks and tan Mary Jane shoes
A straw hat with ribbon trim
I've heard less than completely stellar things about the fabric on this (namely that it's really thin) but I don't caaaaaaaaaaaare. I haven't quite literally dreamed about this dress, but it's been close. Ruthie and I need it. Like now.
Kit's Mini Golf Set // $48
Item#DXP07
Help Kit get a hole in one with this swell 1930s-style mini-golf set! It includes:
A working crank windmill to putt through
A real metal putter and 2 golf balls
Green felt pads to simulate grass
A decorative folding box for easy storage
Is it wrong that while I flinched (and wept a little when I first saw/heard the price) at Julie's bathroom it didn't make me twitch the same way the price for this set is? Damn near $50 for a mini golf set where you play exactly one hole. One. ONE. Sigh. This is also backordered til March 3, but I'm betting that's less "super popular!" and more "didn't get the order in."
Kit's Mini Golf Outfit // $34
Item#DXP06
Kit’s pastel golf outfit was made for hitting the green in style! The drop-waist dress features contrast cuffs, a fashionable Peter Pan collar, and skirt with button and ribbon details, as well as Kit's embroidered initials: MMK. Her matching argyle socks, two-tone shoes, and knit hat with a ribbon flower add the perfect finishing touches to the outfit.
There is a lot going on in this outfit. Just a lot. o_O I dislike the blue-grey of the embroidery with the orange. Which is a shame because the color is gorgeous, but the combo is not. I love the socks and I like the shoes, but not really together though on closer inspection they look okay together so long as I don't see the rest of the outfit. I don't hate the hat on Kit, but all together it's just too busy. My eyes don't know where to look first... and not in a good feast for the eyes kind of way, either.
Rebecca's Coney Island Games // $40
Item#DXP10
It’s all fun and games at Coney Island, where Rebecca and her family have an exciting day making memories and winning special prizes. This set includes:
A bottle-toss booth with 2 bottles
3 bean bags to toss
A prize wheel with a dog prize, horse prize, and pig prize
A strip of tickets
A set of postcards to send
The pricing for these accessory/game sets feels all over the place but I guess it's not really. We go from $38 for the basketball hoop to $48 for the mini golf set, with this being at $40 and you get a bunch of little things. But it still feels off, price wise. The prizes were cuter til I zoomed in. Alas.
Rebecca's Play Dress // $32
Item#DXP09
Rebecca loves to explore New York in this fun and fashionable play outfit. The short-sleeved dress features cuffs and ruffles with decorative button details and a contrast overdress with a sash bow. White tights, two-tone boots, and a straw hat complete the look.
I miss detailed reviews on the boards, guys. ;_; Don't force me to be unlazy and start doing my own, dammit. Sigh. Anyway, I think this is lovely and definitely a far cry from the prototype (thank goodness) and also I wants. The pictures I have seen somehow even manage to make the odd boots work, so I have hope. Plus, I am apparently a sucker for Rebecca's less costume-y outfits, it seems. I have heard that the hat is a bit too big for the doll's head, so I definitely wouldn't try to put this on a doll with stick straight hair and not expect some issues.
End Part 1
Other news: if you were looking into getting Tenney or nu!Lyssie, make damn sure you check their lips really carefully as I've seen numerous posts about the lip paint rubbing off. And these aren't from the homes with kids or overzealous snugglers or cats who knock things over. We're talking the lips just chip off.
Finally, American Girl, I have some free advice for you. If you want to make more money/more sales, stop cutting corners on the product and simply offer free shipping all the damn time. Seriously. Free shipping. Always. Either on new products, no matter how much someone spends, or offer free shipping at a certain price point. The Wellies have had free shipping since they launched and they've made you so much money I suspect someone's got to be getting their Scrooge McDuck on at this point and part of that is due, yes, to having them available at other retailers, but the free shipping helps! If you give people time to spend their money elsewhere, they will. Don't let them overthink a non-essential purchase... and you're a toy company so all purchases are non-essential. Free shipping. You'll be swimming in money, even from those who vowed never to purchase again. Because free shipping is magic. Just look at your sales before you moved to targeted codes. Anytime free shipping leaked from a catalog code, people went nuts.
Wellie Wishers
The Wellies didn't get a ton of new stuff, but they did get some and well... I mentioned them above so it's only right to start with them now. Also, I'm totally easing into this massive post of pain. :p
Playful Garden Washtub Set // $48
Item #DXX04
The WellieWishers love stomping through puddles and making mud pies, so having a washtub right in Aunt Miranda’s garden makes perfect sense! This set includes:
An old-fashioned washtub trimmed with a band of fun flowers and a W logo
A pretty purple corner fence that holds the washing station, with plenty of hooks for hanging things. The washing station has a faucet shaped like a duck and a garden-hose flower. On the back of the fence is a wheel crank—turn it, and bubbles come bouncing out!
A pink towel
Pretend soap
A bath brush the WellieWishers can use for scrubbing in the tub
For those mud-caked wellies, there’s a boot scraper shaped like a hedgehog
Please note that bubble solution is not included. Since you can get a multipack of those down at the drugstore for a buck, I'm not going to fuss about that.
Honestly, this is cute as hell. The details really make this set pop. The towel looks just okay in the video but the close up? Swoon. The hedgehog boot scraper is adorable! I love the back brush and that both brushes seem to actually be functional and not plastic clumped bristles. I won't be buying it for a variety of reasons (price, space, not really my thing) but as a kid, I'd have been all over this.
Fun Fish Swimsuit Coverup // $24
Item#DYP40
Her doll will make waves in this undersea-themed swimsuit. The set includes a matching blue hooded cover-up, sandals, and a faux-pearl headband.
Let's take a moment and accept the fact that the swimsuit is the most realistic additional outfit to be made available aside from the PJs. Weird. Anyway, it's cute and I want. Let me rephrase. I'm not as sold on the swimsuit itself as I am on the coverup. Which is adorable and I neeeeeeeeed. *grabby hands*
Marvelous Mermaid Outfit // $20
Item#DYP39
Her WellieWishers doll will feel at one with the ocean waves in this shimmering, shining costume, a favorite of Camille’s. It features a blue scale print, satin ruffles, and a sweet starfish accent at the neckline. It comes with a mermaid crown headband with starfish-and-scallop details.
Sometimes you just sit back and accept that you are so not the intended audience that you don't really even have an opinion. Mermaid costume, why not. I won't be buying, but I'm not gonna knock it either. You do you, Wellie Wishers. Keep fighting the good free shipping fight. Oh, and this is very clearly tied to the new book, Camille's Mermaid Tale.
You've got the little girl version of the swimsuit/coverup outfit and a fun fish charm for girls as well.
Bitty Baby
I know, we normally ignore the BB stuff, but since a lot of people were positive this dress was going to be for Melody, I had to share. Also, the playset is just amusing the hell out of me right now so there's that. :p
Sunny Flowers Dress // $28
Item#DYL43
Bitty Baby is all set for warm-weather fun with this pretty two-layered outfit. It includes:
A dress with an under-layer of bold multicolored stripes, sweetly softened by the white floral eyelet top layer featuring a Peter Pan collar and pleats
Cute pale-blue shoes
A matching headband with a big satin bow
Honestly, when someone got this via the grey market, I was pretty sure with the shoes shown that it had to be for Bitty. Still, I think it's cute both on BB and on the bigger dolls and it's interesting so I might buy it.
Seaside Fun Shape Bucket and Tools // $20
Item#DYC01
Bitty Baby will have oceans of fun at the beach with this colorful play set. It includes:
A bucket topped with a lid shaped like a smiling crab
A doll-sized rake and shovel, which snap into the crab’s claws
Three cute animal stacking toys—a whale, turtle, and crab
This is so cute, I'm gonna die. SO CUTE. The only thing that keeps this from being perfect is that the animals don't fit in the bucket. Seriously, for a kid, this would have the animals fitting in the bucket to make beach time easier. But um, yes. Yes I do have this on my wishlist.
Truly Me:
Covered most of this before but what the heck, let's go all in.
Bright and Splashy Tankini // $28
Item#DYP30
Get set for sun and fun with this bright swimsuit and bottle of pretend sunscreen! It features an orange-and-pink tankini top with double satin straps, a bikini bottom, a double-strap headband, and orange flip-flops.
Look, AG, if I'm gonna burn out my retinas with orange and pink, I'm gonna do so with Julie's bathroom, not this. Also, I hate pink and orange. And pink and yellow. And pink and most shades of green, really. Pink is not as universal a color as you seem to think is my point. I think.
Easter Basket // $28
Item#DYP35
Girls can hide a special Easter basket for their dolls! This set includes:
A pretty white doll-sized basket
Pretend grass
A faux-chocolate bunny
A fabric bunny
A pretend set of eggs
Play jelly beans
A doll necklace and gift box
A card and envelope
A sheet of stickers for personalization
This is a case of the new packaging being a serious deal breaker for some. If I'm less lazy, I will find a picture of the packaging and share, but basically it looks awfully similar to OG (Target's line) packaging and people are less than thrilled at being charged AG prices for something that at best looks like the Target line and at worst looks more like the Walmart line.
Looking at the close-ups, the bunny still looks funny and the clumped jellybeans are reminding me of cat vomit. :p Really, the only thing I'm super interested in is the necklace since I'm pretty sure the chocolate bunny is just like the one in Kit's set from a few years back (that I think is still available on the sale page, btw). If this goes on sale at a free shipping time, I'd buy. If not and I don't fall in love with it in store should we make it to the store sometime soon, I'll live.
Bright Blooms Dress // $28
Item#DYP31
Her doll will be party-perfect in this outfit! The floral-print organza dress is lined in taffeta and features an attached satin ribbon at the waist with rhinestone details. It includes a headband with a big organza bow and patent T-strap sandals.
Dammit, PT, by now there should be at least one review or picture of this thing in the wild. But no. Nothing. I can't tell if my indifference to this dress is because I dislike the picture they've chosen to promote it or if it's the actual dress. I suspect this is one I will be looking at most carefully in store, again assuming we go.
Ballet Class Outfit // $28
Item#DYP28
She can practice pirouettes in this six-piece outfit! It includes:
A pink leotard with satin elastic and silver stud details
A silver glitter-knit cropped sweater
Pink tights
Gray leg warmers
Pink ballet shoes
A pink satin elastic headband
Still looks like something Izzy would've cooked up. Price wise, it's not bad for all you get. Far better than the previous set (which was still on the sale page as of this morning) which was damn near $50? $60? to get all the pieces. Of the TM stuff, this is probably my favorite but my brain keeps trying to give #55 there brown eyes and then I think of Lila Fowler sooooooo... really, it's the Lila effect. :p But then I see the Ombre Ballet costume (the blue one) and I remember that I want that so much more.
Star Volleyball Outfit // $34
Item#DYP27
She’s geared up and in position to play! This seven-piece set includes:
A jersey with a volleyball graphic
Shorts with a star graphic
Socks with star print
Knee pads
Shoes with elastic laces
A purple headband
A volleyball with star graphic
Still a solid shrug from me. It's not bad, I like the colors, I just don't have a burning need for a volleyball outfit.
Beach Cooler Set // $28
Item#DYP26
Set up a doll picnic anywhere with this sunny beach cooler! It's packed with yummy pretend food, including 2 orange drinks, 2 wrapped deli sandwiches, a serving of sweet berries, and 2 sets of pretend ice, too!
Hey, look, something that makes sense to have things clumped together. (The ice.) This is definitely a maybe for a sale price and a no if not on sale. But now I want an orange dreamsicle.
BeForever
Felicity:
We begin with Felicity because, well, she's the new launch even if she's only available online and at the flagship stores. Probably because if all the other stores got this small collection they would wonder WTF at the size of her 'collection.' Flagship stores, btw, are LA, NYC, and Chicago.
Felicity Doll and Paperback // $115
Item#DYL15
Spunky, spritely Felicity Merriman has sparkling green eyes that open and close, and long auburn hair. She comes in an authentic 1770s-style outfit:
A traditional floral patterned blue-and-yellow dress with a scoop neck, short sleeves with ribbon detail, bustling in the back, and an attached contrast petticoat
White knee-high stockings
Sturdy black shoes with golden decorative buckles
The 18" Felicity doll has a huggable cloth body, and her movable head and limbs are made of smooth vinyl. Includes the paperback book Love and Loyalty, the first novel-length volume of Felicity’s classic series.
It's funny that AG's stock photos show her with the laser eyes (or something similar) but in reality all the new Felicitys have an emerald green eye color that is making me wish for her quite a bit more than I anticipated. AG has promised that they have more in store for Felicity, so here's hoping that's not just spin.
Felicity's BeForever Outfit // $36
Item#DXN98
Felicity loves to stroll through Williamsburg, visit her father’s shop, and explore in this authentic 1770s outfit. It features:
A traditional floral brocade blue-and-yellow dress with a scoop neck, short sleeves with ribbon detail, and bustling in the back
White knee-high stockings
Sturdy brown shoes with golden decorative buckles
Huzzah, you can buy just her outfit! I'm still not 100% sold on it because the proportions look... off. Like the front looks like it should be an inch or two lower all around and the back... I don't have any reference for what it should look like, but I suspect that is not really the best picture of how it should look. And naturally no one's fully reviewed new!Lyssie yet. Sigh. This is on my To Buy list because I've found that in terms of Felicity's things, it's always better to regret purchasing than to regret not purchasing.
Felicity's Accessories // $24
Item#DXN99
Felicity can top off her outfit with the perfect accessories for a summer stroll through 1770s Williamsburg:
A hat with ribbon trim
A mob cap to wear under the hat
A fichu to protect her neck from the sun
A pretty beaded necklace
I was going to tick of all the things I wanted from this set and then I realized I want it all. Seriously, I've been wanting a plain mob cap for ages and for what Etsy/Ebay charge, I can get all of Felicity's other goodies as well! Honestly, I'm likely to pick up a couple of these simply for the mob caps. :p Coral necklaces for all!
Felicity's Undergarments // $28
Item#DXP00
In Felicity’s day, girls wore these undergarments beneath their dresses:
A white scoop-neck chemise that served as the first layer of clothing or could be used as a nightgown
Quilted stays with functional lace ribbon and fashionable tapestry print that provided a foundation for the top layers of clothing
A bumroll with ties to go around the waist and fasten on top of the chemise and stays; it was used to achieve lift at the back of the skirt for a true 1770s silhouette
Onnnnnn the one hand, I get why people are ticked that her shift is included in this set and not with the doll like it always was before. On the other hand, undergarment set! Sooooo... yes. If I didn't have Felicity already, I'd probably be more pitchfork-y. But I do and thus I already have her shift, so I can see this as getting a second one and it helps off-set the price of the set. Not by much considering how stupidly simple it is, but still, sometimes with AG it's all in the spin you tell yourself.
Maryellen:
Maryellen Flamingo Swim Outfit // $34
Item#DXP08
Maryellen is ready to make a splash with this bright swim outfit! It includes:
A one-piece flamingo-print swimsuit with a bloomer bottom
Two-tone sandals with knotted bows and ankle straps
A pink hair ribbon attached to a ponytail holder
A fabulous flamingo-shaped purse
Spiffy pink cat-eye sunglasses
Stop making me want Maryellen, AG. Honestly, this outfit is cuter than it has any right to be, really. I think my favorite thing about it (aside from the shoes and that purse!) is how it's the opposite of the Bitty dress mentioned at the start of all this. People were positive it was for Bitty Baby and still scoff at it. I got nothing as far as historical accuracy goes because that is not my area, much as I like learning about fashions from other eras, but the cute is strong here.
Julie's Basketball Accessories // $38
Item#DXP04
Practice makes perfect, and Julie hones her skills by doing drills with this hoop and ball. Set includes:
An adjustable basketball hoop
A basketball
A medal for when hard work pays off
I think with AG, I appreciate a lot of the sets far more than I would ever buy them, y'know? If I had my own house and I was able to put things wherever/whenever and not have to worry about things, or had a doll room, or hell, even still had the awesome doll closet this might come home just because it would make for an interesting set up. I like that AG is getting back to having sets where you can play at more than tea for one lonely doll. Shoot some hoops with Julie, guys. It'll be fun.
I will say I think it's odd they don't show Julie with the hoop for a size reference.
Julie's Basketball Uniform // $34
Item#DXP03
Julie’s ready to get out on the court and take on the competition in her team’s basketball uniform. It includes:
A sleeveless tank top with Julie’s number and team name (Go, Jaguars!)
A matching pair of shorts with an elastic waistband
A pair of knee-high tube socks with stripes representing the team’s colors
White shoes with navy stripes and laces
A basketball
Two yarn hair ties
This is a very, very simple uniform but it's stinkin' cute and I love that you get a basketball with it so you don't have to wait for/get the hoop if you want to kind of make your own for Julie but still play. I love blue and green together and these shades in particular work really well, plus I'm a sucker for pigtails and yes, eventually I will buy this. Never did get the original outfit, but I kind of like this one better. Possibly because my eyes aren't being drawn to the orange bag of death this go round. :p
Julie's Groovy Bathroom// $175
Item#DYK04
Julie loves the bathroom in her family’s new apartment, although she has to compete with her teenage sister, Tracy, for time in it. This make-believe set is full of ’70s style and details, and it folds up for storage with a convenient handle. It includes:
A sink on a pink vanity with bright orange trim
A floral-print shower curtain and hooks
A toilet that makes a flushing sound when the handle is pushed, complete with a funky faux-fur seat cover
A hamper with daisy graphics
A pretend hanging plant in a macrame holder
A wastebasket with a butterfly graphic
3 colored pretend soaps in a soap box
A head wrap and towel wrap for Julie
Pretend toothpaste, a toothbrush, and a toothbrush holder
2 hand towels and a towel holder
Pretend shampoo, perfume, and powder
A tissue box
A toilet paper roll and pack of toilet tissue
A hair dryer with two attachments
2 rainbow-colored hairbows
So the price was correct. To be honest, the person who leaked the price is reliable so I wasn't putting too much faith in this thing being cheaper but a girl can hope until the last possible second. Sigh.
I won't lie. There is a very, very real possibility of this thing coming home with me if I go to the store and have managed to accrue rewards points by then. It's so over the top and orange and yellow and the toilet makes flushing sounds! Tiny doll toilet! Doll TP! Working drawers! Decorate your own bathroom without having to clean everything up!
Plus, I think I figured out my other reason for being drawn to this aside from a love of the weird. The house I grew up in had three bathrooms (ooh, fancy but not really) and the powder room/half bath was painted yellow. Like eye-searing in the sunlight yellow. I'm pretty sure the sunshine yellow of that room is what my parents were attempting for the living room at the house where Widget was born but that didn't work. Thing is, that little bathroom worked in yellow because it was so small and only had one window and basically the yellow worked some magic. That still doesn't give this bathroom a pass with the orange and pink, but I have never claimed to be logical. Ever.
Julie's Peasant Top Outfit // $32
Item#DXP01
Spring is in the air, and Julie’s ready to enjoy the sunshine! This outfit includes:
A short-sleeved embroidered peasant top
A denim miniskirt
Platform sandals with yellow flower embroidery
The moment I notice free shipping is live and I'm near a computer, this is getting ordered. I'm not even sure a rash of terrible reviews would stop me but I hope to find some reviews of any sort on it complete with pictures because how cute is this? Totally Dawn Read Schafer approved. And thus, I need. Also, I totally love peasant blouses.
Julie's Floral Accessories // $24
Item#DXP02
Julie’s off to explore San Francisco with these groovy accessories:
An embroidered cross-body purse with special stitching along the edge
A daisy-chain headband with ribbon detail
A beautiful faux silver and turquoise cuff bracelet
This is one of those sets I like in theory but the bracelet seems to look weird on the doll and I don't love the purse or the headband so this is kind of meh for me. We'll see if my opinion changes over time.
Kit's Play Dress // $28
Item#DXP05
The days are getting longer, and Kit loves to enjoy the extra sunshine and fun with friends in this cheerful playtime outfit. Includes:
A flower-patterned dress
A pair of socks and tan Mary Jane shoes
A straw hat with ribbon trim
I've heard less than completely stellar things about the fabric on this (namely that it's really thin) but I don't caaaaaaaaaaaare. I haven't quite literally dreamed about this dress, but it's been close. Ruthie and I need it. Like now.
Kit's Mini Golf Set // $48
Item#DXP07
Help Kit get a hole in one with this swell 1930s-style mini-golf set! It includes:
A working crank windmill to putt through
A real metal putter and 2 golf balls
Green felt pads to simulate grass
A decorative folding box for easy storage
Is it wrong that while I flinched (and wept a little when I first saw/heard the price) at Julie's bathroom it didn't make me twitch the same way the price for this set is? Damn near $50 for a mini golf set where you play exactly one hole. One. ONE. Sigh. This is also backordered til March 3, but I'm betting that's less "super popular!" and more "didn't get the order in."
Kit's Mini Golf Outfit // $34
Item#DXP06
Kit’s pastel golf outfit was made for hitting the green in style! The drop-waist dress features contrast cuffs, a fashionable Peter Pan collar, and skirt with button and ribbon details, as well as Kit's embroidered initials: MMK. Her matching argyle socks, two-tone shoes, and knit hat with a ribbon flower add the perfect finishing touches to the outfit.
There is a lot going on in this outfit. Just a lot. o_O I dislike the blue-grey of the embroidery with the orange. Which is a shame because the color is gorgeous, but the combo is not. I love the socks and I like the shoes, but not really together though on closer inspection they look okay together so long as I don't see the rest of the outfit. I don't hate the hat on Kit, but all together it's just too busy. My eyes don't know where to look first... and not in a good feast for the eyes kind of way, either.
Rebecca's Coney Island Games // $40
Item#DXP10
It’s all fun and games at Coney Island, where Rebecca and her family have an exciting day making memories and winning special prizes. This set includes:
A bottle-toss booth with 2 bottles
3 bean bags to toss
A prize wheel with a dog prize, horse prize, and pig prize
A strip of tickets
A set of postcards to send
The pricing for these accessory/game sets feels all over the place but I guess it's not really. We go from $38 for the basketball hoop to $48 for the mini golf set, with this being at $40 and you get a bunch of little things. But it still feels off, price wise. The prizes were cuter til I zoomed in. Alas.
Rebecca's Play Dress // $32
Item#DXP09
Rebecca loves to explore New York in this fun and fashionable play outfit. The short-sleeved dress features cuffs and ruffles with decorative button details and a contrast overdress with a sash bow. White tights, two-tone boots, and a straw hat complete the look.
I miss detailed reviews on the boards, guys. ;_; Don't force me to be unlazy and start doing my own, dammit. Sigh. Anyway, I think this is lovely and definitely a far cry from the prototype (thank goodness) and also I wants. The pictures I have seen somehow even manage to make the odd boots work, so I have hope. Plus, I am apparently a sucker for Rebecca's less costume-y outfits, it seems. I have heard that the hat is a bit too big for the doll's head, so I definitely wouldn't try to put this on a doll with stick straight hair and not expect some issues.
End Part 1