Tatyana Alexandrova Nouveau Regime FR2

The new FR2 Tatyana arrived today. She photographs beautifully.

Her dress and purse are lovely and well made. The jewelry consists of earrings, bracelet and ring.

Her shoes are a total nightmare. It took me nearly 45 minutes to get them on properly and buckled. I only opened up the top two buckles. The buckle opening is barely large enough to get the strap through and the strap is fragile so you have to be very careful not to pull hard or it will break.
On top of that, the shoes are too wide and slip around no matter how tightly you close the straps. If that weren't enough, the soles are not made properly to contact the ground.

For $175. I need better. Here are unretouched photos of the doll's face and hair. Her bun can be smoothed down with some gel so that's not a big deal.

But look at the lip painting. The dark shadow line extends further on one side than the other.

She is a pretty doll but the quality control is not there. I am not going to ask for a replacement because I know the doll is sold out and even if they have replacements, it's liable to take months to get it. 

I would love to change her hairstyle. Rerooting would cost another $100. Not worth it.

Thanks to All Who Contributed to Marwencol

Mark Hogancamp was the happy recipient of a very large box filled with dolls, tool and accessories for his fantasy world, Marwencol. His executor delivered the goods to him and reported that he loved it all.
Perhaps one day there will be a follow-up to the film and we will see the different contributions in place according to Mark's desires.

 A note from Kevin von Duuglas-Ittu:
Any communication with Mark should be mediated through his executor, Janet, who can be reached through us at tonnersocialmedia@gmail.com.

Rush of Rose Gold™ Barbie® Doll

On 6/13/12 at 9:00 AM Pacific Time, a new Platinum Label doll will go on sale at BC.Com. This is for Barbie Fan Club members only. She is called Rush of Rose Gold and here is the description from the website:

Striking and sophisticated, Rush of Rose Gold Barbie doll is stunning in an asymmetrical dress of glamorous golden lamé. A single dolman sleeve makes a bold statement, while the wrap skirt falls just above her knees, adding to the modern silhouette. The black vinyl belt, hose and boots offer elegant contrast, while rose-golden accessories add the final stylish touch.
Created by Robert Best exclusively for members of the 2012 Barbie Fan Club.

The retail price is $85. Can you believe it? A non-articulated doll with dorky black plastic boots for $85.? I'm sure she will sell out fast. LOL. It seems that the sky is the limit with Platinum Label dolls because they are so limited. At least it could have been a Silkstone or on an articulated body. 

Seriously? I have thrown away better looking boots.


I have to give Mattel credit for knowing how to do an open mouth so it doesn't look like the doll has a snaggle tooth. I can guarantee that the top of her hair will be messed up. It already looks shaggy and frizzy in the promo.