Poppy in the Conservatory
…with Professor Plum and a candlestick {Snort!}. No, we are not playing the game Clue…but it sure sounds like it. Some times I have an idea for a photo and it simply won’t go away. I received a couple new pieces of furniture this past week and I knew I was in trouble when I formulated a game plan before I went to bed and woke up with new ideas on how to make the scene work. I realized…I was already on the road to doing the diorama so I might as well get on with it. My enthusiasm ( cough, cough obsession) was fueled even further by some amazing photos on Flickr by Stilleto Queen (http://www.flickr.com/photos/stilettoqueen/). This one was an idea that needed some lead time for construction so that explains my blog absence for the past week. I was very lucky to find some resources online for this shoot and I will share them at the end of this post. If you wish to make some of the items in this post, get ready to make glue, glue dots and scissors your best friends.
Model: “Sea Breeze” Poppy Parker
Gown and jewelry: Petal Perfect by Dressmaker Details(http://www.windycitydolls.com/dressmaker.htm)
Table and Chairs: Mini Chair ( http://www.etsy.com/shop/miniCHAIR?ref=top_trail)
Some candid shots during the shoot. Loved how the sun was hitting the scene while I shot this!!
Photo of the set up…real high tech…right down to the Star Wars AND Lord of the Rings Trivial Pursuit games holding up the chandelier. My family and I are complete geeks. Yes, that is an old window providing the back wall. I love it!
Do you like the French flower pails and tin pitchers? Well they are made of paper and available for download at:
http://miniatures.about.com/od/dollhouseprintables/ss/flowercontainers.htm
Actual downloads are on page two of article above and in multiple scales. These are all in 1/6 scale. I used heavier weight presentation paper for this project because cardstock was just too heavy and hard to work with. I also wanted a slight shine to the items but not glossy so the presentation paper worked well. Tip: to keep the flower pails from tipping over when you put something in them, fill them up halfway with rice. It weighs it down and helps hold the stems in place . Tip: Ever filled a mini pot and wondered what to use for dirt? Try coffee grounds.
Happy mini gardening!!
The Iconography of Fashion Dolls
Iconography by definition is: (source Bing Dictionary)
i·co·nog·ra·phy
[ kə nóggrəfee ]
- set of recognized images: the set of symbols or images used in a particular field of activity such as music or the movies and recognized by people as having a particular meaning
- symbols in painting: the symbols and images used conventionally in a genre of painting, or the study and interpretation of these symbols and images
- images of somebody or something specific: the collection, description, or study of images of somebody or something specific
For many of us, the last time we heard or thought about the word iconography was while studying for that art history final in college. Since man invented the paintbrush, and more currently since the camera entered the scene, we as a society have been adding more and more data points to an ever expanding “iconography” on a variety of different subjects. In todays culture, with the rise of social media and the resulting wave of images we are bathed in every day, iconography is perhaps entering our daily lives more often than one may think. The fashion doll iconography time line, one can argue, began in March of 1959 when Ms. Barbie entered our cultural consciousness… and lets face it….she has owned the fashion doll genre since. As a blogger, I wonder, “What data points am I adding to that time line?”. My hope is that the images I contribute give a positive and supportive view of the community I enjoy being a part of.
As many of you know, I enjoy doing slideshows set to music of my photos so I used this idea of iconography to present my next YouTube installment. Enjoy!
It’s a Nice Day for a Picnic in Paris
I am still feeling the inspiration from my recent trip to Paris ( hope that sticks around for a while too). That coupled with the recent sunshine and Spring temperatures had me feeling like a Picnic….and here it is.
Model: OOAK Debut Silkstone ( no she isn’t the Paris doll festival Debut but doesn’t she look like one!!) I rerooted a caucasian Debut and repainted the eyebrows.
Dress: Bellissima Couture ( http://bellissimacouturefashions.wordpress.com/)
Hat: Bogue’s Vogues ( http://www.etsy.com/shop/boguesvogues)
Shoes, Gloves and Jewelry: Mattel
**The photos above were made possible by the following talented artists who were willing to share their amazing photoshop brushes on deviantart: Blazter(JavierZhx) and deseratedeceit. **
Miss Debut here represents my one and ONLY attempt at rerooting a Silkstone. That process is not for a first timer folks. I was lucky to have fingers when I was done and it took about a month LOL! I now have a completely new level of respect for anyone who reroots these Silkies.
The Blogging Blues
We all have them. Those times when we just can’t seem to summon the energy to get things done. I find myself in this state of ennui from time to time.
That is where I feel I have been for the last week. Yesterday, however, the sun came out and I decided to do some redressing and get with the program. I grabbed my trusty point and shoot and had some fun with the sunshine. Hope you like 
Model: Victoire Roux Place Vendome
Gloves: Victoire Roux Place Vendome
Suit and hat: Bellissima Couture (http://bellissimacouturefashions.wordpress.com/)
Shoes and Jewelry: Mattel
Model ,Gloves and Jewelry: Think Pink! Imogen
Gown: Victoire Roux Place Vendome
And…behind the scenes.
Mermaid Gown Arrives..and Bewitches ITFDS!
When news and promotional photos were shared of this one, I was beside myself with excitement. I mean come on…she was all in pink! I have been waiting patiently for this one to arrive and my lovely Barbie Collector dealer Claudia of Pink Ponytail made sure my Ms. Mermaid Gown was shipped promptly to me. Typically, I will photograph a doll upon receipt in what’s come to be known as ( yes, Rogier…you have named it) putting her in THE WINDOW. I like to take photos of a new doll in natural light without enhancing anything ( no Photoshop!) up against a soft white window sill so people can get a good idea of the actual coloring of a doll. These are the photos I took of Ms. Mermaid Gown just after she came in the door.
Her gown is the softest crepe de chine in a dusty pink. Her skin tone is “Silkstone peace” which means she is very, very pale. I am not sure what the back of her hairdo was “supposed” to look like but I had to do some reconstructive surgery to get mine to look something other than a hot mess. It wasn’t difficult but it did take some work and some hair gel….just sayin’.
I am very, very happy with her though. She is a beautiful addition to the 2013 Silkstone Atelier line. And now…the studio shots!
And…because Rebecca was having WAY too much fun with Photoshop today…. Kind of had a Bewitched moment didn’t I?! I almost looked for a witch on a broomstick outline to put in the sky…
…almost .
Fashion Royalty Classic
That is the name given the Fashion Royalty collection shared with WClub members this past Saturday in their second webinar of the year. Vaughn Sawyer shared some of the inspiration for the name and collection stating that Jason Wu, captain of the Integrity Toys fashion doll design team, wanted to “ keep it classic but new”. This years FR Classic collection,according to Vaughn, is an homage to the original classic FR styling. He shared that they were trying to get back to the roots of FR..back to retro glam like the early FR dolls. Vaughn also shared that this years classic collection was a chance for many of the newer characters to get a classic FR styling…and he wasn’t kidding…as you will see.
** Photos are property of Integrity Toys, Inc.**
Nostalgia
Dania Zarr™ Dressed Doll
The Fashion Royalty® Collection
Suggested Retail Price: $130.00 US
Limited Edition Size: 600
Estimated Ship Date: Late June / Early July 2013
Are we feeling the nostalgia here? Oh I think so! I adore the beaded color on this simple 50’s inspired shirtwaist. The makeup on all of these classic offerings are inspired by the original Fashion Royalty dolls. I am not a big fan of the lower lashes and no defining eyeliner on the bottom but I figure I can always have that added on after if it bugs me that much.
Splendid
Jordan™ Dressed Doll
The Fashion Royalty® Collection
Suggested Retail Price: $130.00 US
Limited Edition Size: 400
Estimated Ship Date: Late June / Early July 2013
Ummmmm…my mind is blown on this one! Holy fashionista! My first thought was..”and they only made 400 of this one?? Integrity!…you came in WAY too low on that number.” I know that in reality the AA dolls don’t tend to sell as well but this offering is flying off the shelves in early sales. From the tops of her auburn locks to the black tips of her olive/black spectators, she is class personified and aptly named with “Spendid”.
Captivating
Anja™ Dressed Doll
The Fashion Royalty® Collection
Suggested Retail Price: $130.00 US
Limited Edition Size: 800
Estimated Ship Date: Late June / Early July 2013
Okay…smell those lilacs and roses?? That was a huge wave of femininity that just wafted in with these pictures. The pictures of this doll flashed on the screen and all I could hear in my head was “ Come to me!” This one is a complete no brainer for me and I am sure you are all shocked. LOVE everything about her. According to Vaughn, this lovely lady was a nod to Paradise Veronique…one of my first Fashion Royalty dolls. Here is my money Integrity…I’m captivated.
Ambitious
Kesenia™ Dressed Doll
The Fashion Royalty® Collection
Suggested Retail Price: $130.00 US
Limited Edition Size: 700
Estimated Ship Date: Late June / Early July 2013
If Anja was all about femininity, Kesenia is all about strength. I love the coloring and styling on this one. I adore the Veronica Lake hairstyle she is rocking too…with those red lips, dress and nails she establishes a sexy and stylish presence in this classic lineup. How cool are these shoes and clutch I ask you??!!
Polished
Korinne™ Dressed Doll
The Fashion Royalty® Collection
Suggested Retail Price: $130.00 US
Limited Edition Size: 700
Estimated Ship Date: Late June / Early July 2013
Are you smelling those lilacs and roses again? Yep, uber feminine is continued in this one. Am I seeing this right? Did they bring back “Dressing The Part” Agnes’s skirt? I always loved that one and the coral pink top they put it with is divine! I am enjoying the enamel jewelry she wears as well.
And…last but not least…the Integrity Toys WClub Event Doll. This is a doll that is only available to the WClub and has to be ordered within 48 hours of the webinar.
Irresistible
Dania Zarr™ Dressed Doll
The Fashion Royalty® Collection
2013 W Club Online Event Doll
Suggested Retail Price: $130.00 US
Limited Edition Size: TBA
Estimated Ship Date: Mid to Late Summer 2013
I am not sure how to feel about this one. I think I really like the tan and platinum doll but the outfit is just not doing it for me on this doll. I think this may be another one of those separate it into pieces and look at it that way kind of experiences. I adore the doll and accessories. The jacket has potential…just not feeling it on this doll. Will have to see when I have her in hand. Many were surprised that we have two blond Dania’s in this Classic lineup and I have to say…I’m a bit surprised as well but by no means upset. I love these bite sized morsels Integrity is handing to us this year with the smaller, multiple webinars. I particularly love the increased production sizes so hopefully all who want this product can get it. Also, all of these dolls in the classic line are on the standard Fashion Royalty body.
Many collectors were left after this webinar asking “ Where are Veronique, Vanessa, Kyori..ect”. The response from Integrity was essentially ”Keep watching, much more in store as the year plays out.”
One last note for those of us concerned about the skin tone issues turning up on many of the tanned dolls. Namely..their hands are turning a different color than the body. I experienced this with a couple of my Poppys this past year see pics here http://www.flickr.com/photos/42498300@N07/8273380052/in/set-72157623521603942
According to Vaughn, they have worked with their engineers in China and believe they have fixed the problem. Yippeee! Thank you for addressing the issue and putting the effort forth to come up with a solution!!
** as of the time of this posting, Kesenia, Anja and Korinne still available at www.windycitydolls.com**
Integrity Toys offers up The Misfits
I was in college when Jem and the Holograms entered the pop culture of the late 1980’s so I missed out on what was obviously a well loved show. Jem and her friends have big fans at Integrity and they are pouring that enthusiasm into their collaboration with Hasbro in the Jem and the Hologram line. In this last Integrity Toys Webinar, “The Misfits” were unveiled. There is a jaw dropping edition size of 1200 for each doll ….
…so I am thinking there will be plenty to go around..
** Photos are property of Integrity Toys, Inc.**
Roxanne “ROXY” Pelligrini™
The JEM AND THE HOLOGRAMS™ Collection
Limited Edition of 1200 Dolls Only
Suggested Retail Price: $119.00 US
Estimated Ship Date: May 2013
Phyllis “PIZZAZZ” Gabor™
The JEM AND THE HOLOGRAMS™ Collection
Limited Edition of 1200 Dolls Only
Suggested Retail Price: $119.00 US
Estimated Ship Date: May 2013
Mary “STORMER” Phillips™
The JEM AND THE HOLOGRAMS™ Collection
Limited Edition of 1200 Dolls Only
Suggested Retail Price: $119.00 US
Estimated Ship Date: May 2013
I am hearing that these are all readily available at dealers for preorder. It doesn’t get more 1980’s than this folks.
Poppy Parker At The 1965 International Fair!
This past Saturday marked another goodie filled webinar from the talented folks at Integrity Toys. At this event, David Buttry unveiled a 5 doll Poppy Parker collection that evoked a “Dolls of the World” feel. While I am not necessarily a dolls of the world collector in Barbieland…in Poppyland, stamp my passport and call me a happy camper. You will see why. 
** Photos are property of Integrity Toys, Inc.**
First Stop on the International tour is….India
Irresistible in India
Poppy Parker™ Dressed Doll
Limited Edition of 750 Dolls
Suggested Retail Price: $89.00 US
Estimated Shipping Date: June 2013
She has a Latino skin tone ( no clarification on what that is at the time of this blog post….will follow up). She also has the Bergdorf facial screening. YES! She is also sporting an intricate 60’s hairstyle. Irresistable?? Absolutely!!
Next, our plane stops off in…Spain
Spicy in Spain
Poppy Parker™ Dressed Doll
Limited Edition of 750 Dolls
Suggested Retail Price: $89.00 US
Estimated Shipping Date: June 2013
News alert! Brand new facial screening on this beauty folks. She is also sporting the Caucasian skin tone, bright red luscious lips and a fabulous embroidered purse. Add a fantastic hat and we are off to the bull fights…”Toro!” Definitely time to spice it up in the doll room.
Third on our list of international destinations is …. Switzerland
Sweet in Switzerland
Poppy Parker™ Dressed Doll
Limited Edition of 750 Dolls
Suggested Retail Price: $89.00 US
Estimated Shipping Date: June 2013
Holy Sonja Henie Batman!! She has flippin’ ice skates??!! I think this was the first words that flew out of my mouth when I saw her photo…” Look at the ice skates!!”. I ADORE THEM! She has the Japan skin tone and shares, according to Mr. Buttry, the facial screening of Photo Fab. The fact that she is a redhead and all the exquisite details on this one ( flippin’ pom poms on the hat I tell you…pom poms!!) Sweet in Switzerland will be sweeter in the doll room come June.
Our journey continues with some down time in the tropics….Polynesia
Pretty in Polynesia
Poppy Parker™ Dressed Doll
Limited Edition of 750 Dolls
Suggested Retail Price: $89.00 US
Estimated Shipping Date: June 2013
Somebody bring me a Mai Tai!! I have to say I am absolutely thrilled with this one. My family and I vacation in Hawaii every other year and Miss Poppy looks like she would be right at home on the beaches of Kauai…right down to the flower in her ear which is appropriately placed over her right ear to signify she is single. The sarong is removable to show a fun one piece underneath. Lots of pieces to mix and match on this one. The beaded necklace is, according to the webinar, one of the most intricate they have done. Poppy is sporting original Poppy Parker facial screening here with applied lashes. She has sweet and sultry brown eyes that have not been done before according to Mr. Buttry. She has the same skin tone as Hot Dots…so a bit of a tan…as one would expect in the tropics.
Traveling west across the international date line, we end our international Poppy journey in…Japan.
Joyful in Japan
Poppy Parker™ Dressed Doll
Limited Edition of 750 Dolls
Suggested Retail Price: $89.00 US
Estimated Shipping Date: June 2013
Wowzers! The facial screening on this lovely lady is new for this year just like Miss Spain. She has..of course..the Japan skin tone and a stunning pair of violet eyes. Joyful in Japan..not as joyful as I will be when June gets here and all these Poppy’s arrive. It will be Christmas in June for sure inside the fashion doll studio.
As a whole, I have to say I am very happy with this Poppy offering from Mr. Buttry and Integrity. I am most happy with the low price point on these beauties and the higher edition size that will hopefully allow most if not all who want these a chance at them. Given that, if you are interested in any of these, you should contact a dealer ASAP. The supply of these dolls will not last long.
**I was just informed by my fabulous dealer Barb that she has some Joyful in Japan left so feel free to contact her through http://www.windycitydolls.com/**
In Her Easter Bonnet
With all the frills upon it. Easter is upon us so I thought I would showcase a couple of favorites from the Paris trip.
Model: Paris Luncheon Ensemble
Dress: Spring Bouquet: Grass by Bellissima Couture( http://bellissimacouturefashions.wordpress.com/2013/03/26/more-spring-fashions/)
Hat: Market Day Silkstone ( modified with new hat band and flowers)
She’ll be the grandest lady in the Easter parade.
Paris Fashion Doll Festival 2013
Paris sightseeing aside…it was time to attend the event that brought us all to Paris…The Paris Fashion Doll Festival. This year, the Barbie event was held on a boat so we needed to make our way from the convention hotel over to the Seine River and the lovely Eiffel Tower that stood in majestic splendor over our point of departure. It was a frigid morning at the Tour Eiffel but we still managed to take some photos and enjoy our time…and enjoyed stopping at a café for some chaud chocolate or thé au citron afterwards.
Our intrepid group…Dan, Carole, me and Hilda. Many thanks to the lovely Spanish couple who took this photo for us.
After a quick stroll through the Eiffel Tower’s surrounding grounds and neighborhood….
We arrived at the Bateaux Parisiens for our most fabulous Barbie luncheon on the Seine.
The weather albeit cold was not rainy so it was possible to enjoy the sights of Paris as we cruised down the Seine River sipping Kir au vin blanc and eating foie gras…heaven! We all had the opportunity to see these sights. I, however, was having way too much fun talking to new Barbie friends so I did not pay attention to the beautiful sights passing by me. I had the extreme pleasure of sitting with not only my Barbie buds pictured above but also the lovely Rebecca from Paris. Folks, if you liked the “updo” tutorial I did on this blog, you should be thanking this woman. She was the one who inspired me to do it. When I grow up, I want to be as chic and lovely as Rebecca from Paris…that’s my goal.
Photo credit: Photo generously taken and shared by the fabulous Carole (Yes, I am still lusting after your phone camera )
One of my best buddies ever…the person I played endless hours of Barbie with as a girl..my sister from another mother…Carole. This trip was so much more than another Barbie experience. It was a trip to celebrate life and the living of that life to the fullest. So happy to have this experience with you my sister. { Sniff, Sniff …okay on with the program}
Photo credit: taken by my new Barbie buddy Rogier
I also had the opportunity to meet and visit with a fellow blogger and new collector Rogier. Meeting Rogier and his partner Ruben was one of the highlights of my trip. We had conversed about various Barbie things via email for the past couple of months so it was an extreme pleasure to meet him and get to know him and Ruben better.
Ruben and Rogier
Rogier also writes a fabulous blog with a fresh and very interesting look into Barbie..particularly Silkstone..collecting. If you love Silkstone, I highly encourage you to visit his blog. I simply love how he shows us his love of this hobby through his photos and words. It’s infectious… in a very, very good way. http://dutchbarbieworld.wordpress.com/
I also want to say a big “Thank You!!” “ Un Grand Merci!” to all my readers who came up to say hello. It was so very lovely to hear that people are enjoying the blog and I very much appreciate you taking the time and making the effort to come and tell me that. I am humbled and completely honored. These wonderful French collectors also get extra credit for standing there and listening while I butchered their beautiful language with my pitiful attempts at it. I have decided that I simply need to come to France more often so I can practice and get better at it….yes, that is my plan.
I was having so much fun, I almost…almost forgot that we were going to get a doll at this event. A special Silkstone Barbie was given to all attendees and she is a beauty. Her name is “Paris Luncheon Ensemble”
Photo credit: Mattel
Ahhhh!! She is in pink!!! 
Photo credit: The lovely Carole again…with the lust inducing phone camera..I’m not bitter..really.
It was another great day in Paris.
Opéra Garnier
I could have labeled this blog post with any number of titles. I mulled over a few different options but ultimately, I titled this post with what was most impressive that day…the Palais Garnier. In the number of times I have visited Paris, I have never made it to the Opéra Garnier. Shocking! It was always on my list of things to do but somehow always manged to get pushed to the back of priorities for the day of sightseeing. For this trip, our intrepid trio rose early and made the walk down the Avenue De L’Opera and arrived at Opéra Garnier just as they opened for the day. I was prepared for opulent. I was not prepared for opulent plus, plus.
Oh my word!!! Chagall…a ceiling of Chagall!!
If you are ever in Paris, DON’T miss this one. You don’t even have to be a fan of Phantom of the Opera to appreciate the pure beauty of this place…although it enhances it. You know I was humming “Masquerade” as I ascended that staircase right?? Yeah, I figured you did.
Oh and I have to give a hand to my little Canon PowerShot SX130IS here. This little “scrappy doo” of a camera can handle low light/no flash like no other point and shoot that I have ever owned. To my Canon PowerShot…I salute you. It’s not a Canon 5D Mark III…but it will do for a grab and go camera and I was extremely pleased with it on this trip.
A Day at the Palace of Versailles
I have visited Versailles a number of times. It has mostly been during the high tourist season of summer . In that season, you steel yourself to the inevitable crush of humanity…wall to wall people, no chance for a photo without someone’s head getting in the shot and the 1 out of 3 blown shot because someone accidentally brushes your arm as you attempt to take a non flash photo in low light. Fun times. So…I was excited on this trip to attempt Versailles in low tourist season.
First of all..I would like to pass on to those who are thinking about going to Versailles and think they need the tour with a guide on a bus. YOU DON’T! Buy your ticket in advance ( approx. $25 Euros) and take the train (RER C) out to Versailles. Our group decided we wanted to see Versailles but not pay the over 100 Euros for a half day tour. We took a short walk across the Seine from our hotel to the Musée d’Orsay where you can catch the RER C train out to Versailles.
After a very peaceful 45 minute train ride out of Paris, we arrived in Versailles to sunny skies and cold temperatures. Perfect for touring Versailles…it gets really warm inside with all those people 
. All in all the experience was so much better in low tourist season. Not the mad crush of people. Don’t get me wrong…there were a lot of people there…just not a HUGE crush of people. This photographer was extremely grateful.
And…if you are lucky enough to be living in this beautiful country, this is where you get to take field trips. Ohhhh man! All I ever got to do in Illinois was visit Lincoln’s tomb. NOT the same. NOT even in the same ballpark. {Long Sigh….} C’est la vie.
Since we were not on an organized tour and completely at our leisure, we toured the Palace, had a quick bite, then decided to brave the cold elements and walk the 30 minutes through the gardens to The Grand Trianon.
Oh my word!! All that pink marble and gold yumminess. And…best of all…hardly anyone was there!! The photographer in me was literally jumping with joy.
Many, Many thanks to my travel companions who were patient with me as I snapped a bazillion photos here. Never in a million years did I think I would be able to capture some photos of this outdoor space at The Grand Trianon without a dozen people in the shot. I had the place to myself and I was loving every single second of it.
It was another most excellent day!!
Introducing the 2013 WClub Poppy…
and she is nobody’s baby anymore. She is a much more sophisticated version. She has, after all, been modeling in New York now for the past couple of years so one would expect a certain increase in maturity and sophistication. The little dog she comes with is TO DIE FOR and her name is “Petunia”. With rooted lashes and eyes reminiscent of the uber popular Bergdorf Goodman Poppy, this one is another winner. Sign me up for sophistication Poppy!
This one is a WClub exclusive folks so you have to be a member to get your hands on this pretty lady or be willing to pay the exorbitant fee she is sure to garner on Evilbay.
The Young Sophisticate
Poppy Parker Dressed Doll
2013 W Club Exclusive
Limited Edition: TBA
Special W Club Suggested Retail Price: $119.00
Estimated Shipping Date: Late Summer 2013
According to the story card by Integrity, Poppy’s parents gifted little Petunia to her to help keep her company while she works in New York. You know…so she would not get so homesick. I don’t know about you guys but….Poppy doesn’t look like she is suffering from being homesick. She is an adorable young woman modeling in New York City. I don’t think she is missing home at all 
After the Snow…You Climb a Hill
What do three intrepid travelers choose to do after a snowy evening in Paris?? We decided to climb the hill to Montmartre. This is the area where we were told you could find Paris’s premiere fabric market…and find it we did. One of the members in our party is a couture designer and she was in seventh heaven in this nirvana of Parisian silk, satin and lace.
Sacré-Cœur in the snow!
Command central for this trip
The breakfast of champions 
A Snow Day in Paris
You know those annoying phrases you learn in the first year of a foreign language class in the US. They were the ones you first learned to say in the language you were learning. You said them over and over again until the were burrowed into your subconscious and you can still pull them out 20 to 30 years later. The first phrase I learned in French was ” Oh zut! il neige”. I never in a million years thought I would be able to use it but after our second day in Paris, I can say that I have actually used the phrase!
We did not let the snow infringe on our activities though…even though it meant very crowded metro rides, we braved the elements and enjoyed a day at the Musée d’Orsay.
We also managed to have the most fabulous lunch in the most exquisite place at the museum.
We had a Kir Royale to celebrate
It was a good day in Paris! 
Blogging From Paris….or not.
….it was good while it lasted. 😦 It was good while it lasted but alas…the software I am attempting to use to blog is not working out so after two mornings of incredibly frustrating attempts to blog then losing every thing I typed, I am bagging it. I will blog more when I return home. Sorry. I knew that this wordpress app for the IPad was buggy but it seemed to work the first couple of days. Then it didn’t. C’est la vie. You can follow along on my flickr for photos. I will be uploading the exclusive Paris Fashion Doll Festival doll there first so look for it Saturday afternoon Paris time.
The Paris Adventure Continues…
…so what do a couple of crazy gals do their first full day in a new city?? Get lost.
Then they find their way. No worries. We were only lost for a few moments but it makes for a great intro so I took poetic license. We journeyed out to the Cluny Museum which houses medieval tapestries and assorted religious artifacts. It is a particular favorite of mine and Hilda’s ( hello! art professor). Next we went to the Paris Haute Couture fashion exhibit at the Hotel de Ville. Two words..MIND BLOWING! No pictures allowed so sorry folks, no photos.
We ended the day with a stroll down the famous Champs des Lysees with a stop at Mecca for Hilda…LADUREE.
Here are a few snaps from the day. If you want to see more photos, just click on the flickr link to the right of this post. I usually post the best photos of the day there first.
A demain….until tomorrow 🙂
Blogging from Paris!
Let me start out by saying…our hotel rocks!!! The Wifi is so good I even skyped with my husband last night. After a day of travel, we weary three travelers were happy to get to our hotel and stretch our legs a bit. We enjoyed walking around the Louvre
Took a much needed nap then it was off to dinner in a small bistro with the most amazing food and ambience. Took some snaps on our way back to the hotel
Paris or Bust!
The phrase “or bust” means to do something or collapse from the effort; – used in phrases expressing determination to do something; as, Oregon or bust, meaning “We will get to Oregon or die trying.” …source www.thefreedictionary.com
By this time tomorrow, two dear friends and I will be living this phrase as we journey to Paris for a week of sightseeing ending with attending the Paris Fashion Doll Festival. This year, the festival doll will be a Silkstone Barbie and current speculation is it will be a variation of the “Luncheon Ensemble” Silkie. I agree with this guess and interestingly enough… the doll will be given at a luncheon. I am hoping for a brunette version myself but would not turn down a blond either. I am also hoping for a color of outfit change…like a blue or spring green..yummy.
Or…..
I will try to blog from Paris but may have trouble locating reliable free WIFI so if there are no updates…it’s because 1) I am having too much fun in Paris to do the updates or 2) I can’t connect to upload or 3) I am sleeping off the bottle of wine I had with lunch/dinner {SNORT!}
… don’t laugh….it could definitely happen.
It’s Oscar Time!
I am sitting here with my morning cup of coffee and reflecting on the Oscar show last night. It was definitely a night for fashion…but can I just say one thing…”Thank God for Hugh Jackman!”. Ms. Lawrence was navigating her Dior couture gown up the steps to receive her best actress award and tripped. This was a HUGE dress people and the poor girl did her best. I would have been tripping all over the place but that is not my point. My point is…there were many people who were closer to her to help but they didn’t. Instead, Hugh Jackman comes sprinting from the front row to help her up. Awwwww! As they say back where I grew up, “ Now somebody raised that boy right”.
On to the fashion….There were definitely some hits of the evening.
Jennifer Lawrence in Dior Couture
(Photo credit: MSN)
If there were no stairs involved, she definitely floated down the carpet in this dress. I believe it was the palest pink in hue and I loved seeing her in something soft after we had seen her in stronger reds and blacks at previous awards shows. She was a princess last night not an amazon. And she can definitely pull off both looks.
Anne Hathaway in Prada
Photo credit: Style.com
By all accounts, this was a last minute decision on her and her stylist’s part. Apparently she was all set to wear a Valentino and changed at the final moment. Again we see pale, pale pink. You know I am going to like it for the color alone. The fit could have been better on her but I loved this soft color and simple cut and design on her. The other reason I like this gown is because of …..
Photo credit: Just Jared
THE BACK! Just too cute for words. Conservative from the front and sexy from the back. Love it.
And…In the Pink!
Photo credit: Style.com
Charlize Theron in Dior Couture
Photo credit: Huffington Post
Loved this color and cut on her and was really digging the short hair cut. She had all her hair shaved off for a movie a couple months ago. She has the face and bone structure to be able to do this haircut well….many do not. I appreciated the simple and elegant jewelry here too.
Jessica Chastaine in Armani Privee
Photo credit: Huffington Post
If Jessica and her stylist were going for old Hollywood glamour, they NAILED it. I would have preferred to see a slightly different color on her ( a little too one note with her hair for me) but other than that….WOW! Simple, elegant, understated, beautiful.
Zoe Saldana in Alex Mabille
Photo credit: Style.com
The dress is a pure confection. Her expression in this photo… is not LOL! I am sure she must have been happier than this picture implies to be wearing this beautiful creation. Perhaps she had just spotted her ex ( cough Bradley Cooper cough) on the red carpet. Anywhoo…it appears to be a very pale lilac. LOVE the hem on this and the detail around the waist. I never would have thought I would have liked a belt on an evening gown but it works here.
There were many more high fashion notes from last nights red carpet but time only permits me to list a few. Now to the low notes, in my opinion, of the evening.
Helena Bonham Carter in Vivienne Westwood
Photo credit style.com
I have said it before and I will say it again….”Helena, comb…comb, Helena” This introduction NEEDS to be made. Also, no disrespect to the very fine talent of Vivienne Westwood but…the Queen called and she wants her dust ruffle back. Sorry people, I know Ms. Carter is quirky and incredibly talented. I am just not feeling the love for this look.
Selma Hyack in Alexander McQueen
Photo credit: Style.com
Is anyone else feeling the need to pull at their collar….like you are wearing a too tight turtleneck?? I think this gown fits her beautifully and she has the most amazing figure. I am just not feeling this dress on her. Perhaps it’s the model muse Barbie pose she is in. It just comes off as too stiff. Her shoulders do look AMAZING in this dress though.
And lastly….a picture so disturbing I had to avert my eyes the first time I say it….get ready folks…
Brandi Glanville in…well…I really don’t know but who but it needed about a yard more of fabric!!!
Photo credit: MSN
OH MY WORD! Someone fetch the smelling salts! This woman is one big breath away from a major wardrobe malfunction. Do you get the feeling that cameras were following her around all night long just to catch it. Seriously?! Did someone actually allow her out of the house looking like this? I don’t recall “half dressed” listed as an option for the Oscars. Apparently I was wrong. Brandi…we know you like attention but…we didn’t want you to take “over the top” literally. Sweetie…just get the bigger dress size next time…really.
The Premiere: Registration is Open for 2013 Integrity Toys Convention
2013 will be the 10th official convention for Integrity Toys and it looks like it will be a big one.
It is being held at the Century Plaza Hyatt Hotel in Los Angeles. Information should be up on their Facebook https://www.facebook.com/pages/Integrity-Toys/200208326656019
or on their website http://integritytoys.com/page/events/latest_events
Am I going?? OHHHHHH YEAH!!!!!!
The Oscars Gala
With the Oscars this weekend, I couldn’t resist another award themed photo shoot. I always enjoy watching the red carpet and I am looking forward to this years festivities.
Model: Gala Gown Barbie® Doll
Gown, belt and fur: Randall Craig RTW
Earrings: Regal Solstice Anja Fashion Royalty 2011
It’s Complementary My Dear Watson
As I have stated before, I love to photograph a red headed doll in a green dress. I am partial to the redheads in my collection so I enjoy photographing them. Why then do I always seem to gravitate towards dressing them in green? Yes, I like green but there are other reasons at play here.
Most of us learn in grade school art class that there are three primary colors red, blue and yellow. All other colors come from these three primary bases. We also learn that there are complementary colors. These are colors that are directly across from each other on the color wheel
In art and graphic design there are many theories about these colors and usage. In photography, it is generally accepted that the use of complementary colors helps intensify colors or makes them more active in your photo. I am simplifying it I know and if you really want to do the research, there are ample reams of info on the internet. My point is, using these complementary colors can help give that extra pop in some of your photos.
Red/Green
Blue/Orange(yellow)
Gala Dior
I almost always love a redhead in a green dress. Most people do and there are aesthetic and photography reasons for this…see upcoming blog post this next week. I recently took receipt of the most exquisite green dress from my dear friend Hilda of Bellissima Couture. She patterned it off of a Dior gown from the 1950’s as seen here in this iconic 1957 Life magazine photo
(Photo credit: Loomis Dean – 1957 LIFE)
I had to find the perfect model for it and who better than my muse o’ the moment…Gala Gown.
Model: Gala Gown Barbie® Doll
Gown and hat: Bellissima Couture
Necklace and gloves: Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Inside the Fashion Doll Studio 