Bogue’s Vogues Vendredi
Oh yes…it is that time again. 
Ever since a dear Barbie friend helped me obtain this Milan Boater Silkstone, I have been looking for the perfect purple dress to photograph her in. Mr. Bogue was ,of course, obliging and I had to share.
Model and Earrings: IDC Milan Boater Silkstone Barbie
Gown: Bogue’s Vogues
Gloves and Shoes: Mattel
Ball Gown Silkstone Official Photos
Finally released! Geez…took long enough. I think many people have already received theirs but here are the official photos of this one. I wont have mine in hand for a bit but I am excited to see her up close.
Retails for $100 and is available now
(Photo source: Mattel, Inc)
AA Ball Gown Silkstone-First Look
Okay Mattel…I get it…you want to save the first look of this beauty for the Barbie Convention goers. But, if you are going to do this, why ship the dolls off to Asia for retail BEFORE convention??!! I’m left scratching my head and asking myself, “ And I spent how much on a BFC membership so I could get the first look at product?” {grumble, grumble, grumble}. I am assuming that the lucky dogs going to convention in New Orleans will get to see this fabulous lady up close and personal. I am assuming she will be displayed in the sales room just like Gala Gown was last year. Make sure you take some stellar photos attendees. Just a reminder, I won’t be at convention this year but will point people to some Flickr accounts that will be covering the festivities as we get closer to the event.
Here is the first look!
source: http://www.toywizard.net
It looks like someone has pirated the video shown at the Italian Doll Convention and added their own music. You can find it by searching for “Barbie Fashion Model Collection” but I wont post the link here because it’s not authorized through Mattel and frankly…its PIRATED so not my thing.
Can’t wait for this beauty to join my collection!
Bogue’s Vogues Vendredi
It was definitely time for another BVV! I pulled these images from my stock pile of candid shots to share today.
Model: Walking Suit Barbie® Doll
Gown and hat: Bogue’s Vogues
A Glimmer of Inspiration
Many of you may remember the platinum edition BFC exclusive Glimmer of Gold™ Barbie® Doll. I was lucky enough to be able to get this one.
source: www.barbiecollector.com 
While engaging in my favorite pastime {cough} obsession {cough}, I came across a photo on Pinterest (Thank you Ana Labato!! http://pinterest.com/anaquell/the-world-of-fashion/)that showed me a likely inspiration for this doll design.
sources: Style.com and barbiecollector.com
Cool! And since I know a friend of mine is anticipating the arrival of the platinum edition AA Golden Gala into their collection, I took some photos with her in the Glimmer of Gold fashion. And it’s in THE window. 
Milan Boating Season is Open
The Italian Doll Convention was held in Milan this past month and the reports from this event spell out a most fantastic time. The reports are so glowing that I am seriously considering a trip to Milan next year to experience some of the fun. Like the Paris Fashion Doll Festival, a variation of one of the BFMC’s Silkstone Barbies was given as the convention doll. She is being referred to as “Milan Boater” and is a honey blond version of the 2013 BFC club doll “Boater Ensemble”
Source: Dutch Barbie World
Thanks to a very generous and lovely friend, I had the opportunity to obtain a “Milan Boater” and I love her.
It’s Two for Tea at ITFDS
I really should have released this blog post at around 3 or 4 PMish for tea time right? I have been saving these photos for a couple weeks to share here because I knew I would be tied up with dance recital photos this week and too busy to do anything in the doll studio. I had WAY too much fun with the conservatory diorama and decided to set up afternoon tea for a couple of Silkies. I hope you enjoy.
Models: City Smart ( yes {gasp!} she is deboxed) and Showgirl Silkstone Barbies
Gowns: Luncheon Ensemble Silkstone – City Smart and Bogue’s Vogues (http://www.etsy.com/shop/boguesvogues) – Showgirl
Diorama: Furniture is from MiniCHAIR(http://www.etsy.com/shop/miniCHAIR?ref=top_trail). Pastries and little macarons are by Mio Designs (http://www.etsy.com/shop/MIOdesigns). Both of the lovely hats brought to the tea were gifts from dear doll friends. Many “Thanks!” . Cake and tea set are Rement.
I feel the need for some macarons now 
Italian Doll Convention Auction!
The Italian Doll Convention is a little over a week away and they are auctioning off some stunning OOAK’s to help support a local charity. 100% of the profits from these auctions will go to Casa Oz, a non profit organization that helps provide care to seriously ill children and their families. Here are just a few of the amazing items up for auction.
** photos are courtesy of the Italian Doll Convention**
OOAK DOLL “SPARKLING SATINE” by MAGIA 2000
OOAK BARBIE “MASQUERADE BEAUTY” by MATTEL, DESIGNED BY LINDA KYAW , EXCLUSIVE
OOAK DOLL “MADIVA” by ARTIST CREATIONS
OOAK DOLL “ELPHABA” BY NINIMOMO + CASE
OOAK DOLL “SHADOW AND LIGHT” BY MATTHEW SUTTON
For the whole list of auction items available, go to Italian Doll Convention Ebay auctions. Also, for a much more comprehensive write-up on these auction items, head on over to Rogier’s blog at http://dutchbarbieworld.wordpress.com/2013/05/13/charity-auction-italian-doll-convention/
Holy Cow!!
Mermaid Gown Silkstone…
…is now available at BarbieCollector.com. She has been available at dealers for about a month now but finally BFC members can collect on that quarterly reward and order this baby at a discount.
A new promo photo showed up on the Barbie Collector sight as well. I am always amazed by Lars Auvinen’s work. He is the model and set builder for the BFMC ( Barbie Fashion Model Collection or in another word…Silkstones) promotional photos. I had the pleasure of hearing him speak and chatting personally with him at the last National Barbie Convention. He puts 100% into his craft and it never fails to inspire me. The detail he goes into on these sets just boggles the mind. My dream would be to sit in the corner and just watch while he creates. My other dream is to sit in the corner and watch the photographer , Paul Jordan, as he photographs the set.
(Photo credit: Mattel, Inc.)
(Photo credit: Mattel, Inc.)
If you want to know more about her story, visit www.Barbiecollector.com
Platinum Violette
Okay…this one is for the Silkstone lovers. I could not let this diorama go without putting one of my favorite Silkstones within its shabby chic yumminess. Robert Best’s “Violette”, in my opinion, is one of the most feminine doll designs of his career at Mattel. She embodies gentility and spring to me. Perhaps it’s the lilac print on her gown, the large flowing design or the flowers in her hair…I don’t know…but put it all together and I feel the pull of springtime. It’s just so girly! She is also a platinum edition Silkstone which means she is not photographed often.
I have to give credit to my daughter Megan for this one. She took one look at the diorama I was working on and said “ Mom, you should put the doll in the purple gown in this one”. She was right!
What the set up looks like when I have to pull the big lights out. It’s a much more involved shoot…which is why you may see this diorama for a while. 
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.
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 .
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 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.
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
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
Barbie Fan Club 2013 Renewal Registration Opens….
Today at 9:00AM PST for current members. Registration for new members opens one week on later 2/13.
Here are some of the Fantastic things in store for members this year.
- The opportunity to purchase four (4) Club-exclusive dolls, as announced** (doll purchase is NOT a requirement of membership)
- Up to $80 in BarbieCollector.com Online Shop rewards – $20 per calendar quarter*
- A surprise gift with your membership, Quarterly “Designer Videos” with the creators of Barbie® Collector dolls, sneak peeks at upcoming releases, downloadable goodies, and access to the exclusive Barbie™ Bulletin Board
Important dates to remember
- Club Renewal Starts 2/6
- New Club Spots Open 2/13
- Card and Welcome Letter Ships Starting 3/15
- Membership Gift with Purchase Silkstone® Dress Form Ships Starting 7/12
** Photos are courtesy of Mattel, Inc.**
And the 2013 Barbie Fan Club doll is…..
Boater Ensemble.
ADORE!!! The little Chanel hat on her is to die for!
Three remaining club exclusives are
Squeeeeeealllll! I wonder if this is a Silkstone Ken??!! No clarification on this yet.
And gift with purchase of membership is another mannequin but this one is black. The verbiage on the Barbie Collector website stipulates the dress form won’t start shipping until 7/12. Wellll….that’s a bit of a wait. They will serve no noir dress form until its time apparently. Ah well, it will give all of us diorama enthusiasts a chance to build that perfect shop window scene to showcase this baby.
For more information and a link to renew your BFC membership, click below
BFMC 2013 Mermaid Gown BARBIE®
Oh my word people!! Would you get a load of what the BFMC and Robert Best has in store for us this May!!!
“In 2013, the Barbie® Fashion Model Collection will continue with the theme of couture fashion introduced in 2012. The designs capture the style, detail and beauty of the great fashion houses of Europe. Ladylike, enchanting, yet over-the-top glamorous, this pale pink gown makes a striking statement with its mermaid silhouette. A sprinkling of pink, iridescent and clear sequins and beads embellish the strapless gown. Accessories include a tulle stole and elegant gloves – creating a flawless evening look..”
Available at dealers for preorder. She is ranging from $145 to $150 depending on the dealer and is set for a May delivery.
**Photos are courtesy of Mattel, Inc.**
{THUD} Would someone revive Rebecca….she just fainted……
I DIE!!!!!!!!!!
BFMC Cocktail Dress
Finally photos have been released to retailers so I can share them here. Remember back in August, I obsessed about the Mattel Atelier Video and posted a still from the video that I and pretty much everyone else felt was sure to be one of the releases for 2013. https://insidethefashiondollstudio.com/2012/08/23/the-bfmc-2013-atelier-collection-a-peak-into-next-year/
And….here she is….a beautiful platinum blonde with blue eyes. Retailers are showing price at approximately $90.00 and delivery around April of 2013. Take this information with a grain of salt folks. Mattel may up and decide this one will be the Barbie Fan Club membership doll and therefor only available to BFC members. She is feeling like a club doll to me but I may be wrong. We will know more when Mattel announces information about the 2013 Barbie Fan Club in February.
**Photos used in image below are property of Mattel, Inc.**
I also reported back in September that Robert Best had stated a “platinum” Silkstone was in the works for 2013 (https://insidethefashiondollstudio.com/2012/09/21/new-silkstone-info-for-2013/). And…here she is. It would appear he meant platinum HAIRED not EDITION. Thanks for the word play Robert ! I think he just wanted to see us all frothing at the mouth at the idea of a platinum edition( no more than 1,000 produced) Silkstone. To be completely honest, I am thrilled there won’t be a platinum edition Silkstone. It means I don’t have to get into the mud pit to get one…fun as it would have been { Rebecca’s arched eyebrow is raised with extreme sarcasm}. I could not be happier with this platinum haired lovely. She is on my “must buy” list.
And since I think this might be the 2013 BFC doll, and last year we received a silkstone mannequin with our membership
…I think it would be perfect if we could receive a set of these chairs with our BFC membership….
Or a chair like this in 1/6 scale….
A girl can dream….a girl can dream.
Luncheon Ensemble Silkstone Meets Yankee Doodle
Finally some photos are showing up on dealers sites so I believe I can share them here. This 2013 Silkstone was sneaked back in September to the Barbie Fan Club ( BFC )https://insidethefashiondollstudio.com/2012/09/21/new-silkstone-info-for-2013/. She is one of the Silkies whose drawings can be seen in the Atelier video by Mattel . I was lucky enough to see it at this summer’s National Barbie Convention and I posted a link to it in the blog back in August https://insidethefashiondollstudio.com/2012/08/21/behind-the-scenes-of-the-bfmc-atelier-collection/
** Photo is property of Mattel, Inc.**
Anywhoo…what do I think? I love pink. I love redheads. You would figure a slam dunk right? Hold on to that basketball folks. I love the doll. The outfit is leaving me kind of …”meh”. I think it’s the turban. I just can’t get past the big rose on it. Unlike Yankee Doodle ..you can’t just stick a feather/rose on it and call it macaroni/fashion. I am also not so sure about the print. I would love to see the hairstyle of this silkie beneath the turban. LOVE the little curls on her ears. I am dying to see if she has an updo underneath that “wrongly rose-adorned” turban. Also, putting a redhead in pink??…. always a risky venture. Change this doll’s ensemble to a green, blue or teal…then we are talking! Am I buying this doll? In a heartbeat. At this point and without seeing her in real life, this doll will be redressed faster than you can say “Silkstone”. The turban will be the first to go. I reserve the right to completely change my mind once I have seen her and have her in hand LOL! Have I hedged all my bets sufficiently? I think so.
“Becca Berry went to dealer just to buy a Silkie, ripped the turban off her head and called her fashion beauty”
Welcome to 2013!!
It’s the third official day of the new year and it has been roughly two years since I started the wonderful journey into blogging on WordPress. I truly appreciate everyone’s willingness to come along for the ride 
. I am hoping that 2013 will continue to bring inspiration, time and creativity my way so I can share more photos with you. In the year ahead, I am looking forward to more of Mr. Best’s Silkstone Atelier line as well as the wonders that Integrity Toys will have for us. While I will not be attending and reporting from the National Barbie Doll Collectors Convention this year, I will be reporting for the first time from Paris for the Paris Doll Expo in March and I hope to be attending Integrity Toys Fashion Royalty convention in October.
To kick off the new year, I am trying out some new lighting ideas ( received some new lights for the studio from Santa!!). I had a whole “Narnia” thing going on LOL! I was wishing I had a 1/6 Mr Tumnus.
Model: OOAK Silkstone by Jon Copeland
Gown: T.D. Fashions
2012 ITFDS Favorites
At the end of each year, a flurry of photos floods Flickr and doll boards with groupings of collectors favorite dolls for the year. I always have these grand ideas of doing a group photo too and never seem to get around to it . This year, I had a flash of inspiration and decided I was going to MAKE the time to do it…so.. here it is. I was inspired by this years Vanity Fair Hollywood Edition.
In no particular order, my favorite dolls for 2012 are
1) Glam Addict Giselle
2) Gala Gown Silkstone Barbie
3) Fame by Frame Imogen
4) Lilac Frost Poppy Parker
5) High Profile Eugenia
Inspiration photo…..
Inside the Fashion Doll Studio 