Although time for another new release round-up, I need to express for the umpteenth time that Mattel's website makes it difficult to keep on top of these things. They persist in not having the dolls actually show up in release order even when you filter by release order; so I'm always thinking I missed one.
The newest "Styled By" doll is Patti Wilson.
Relatively unassuming from the front, and while I don't have an issue with her by any means, I don't think she's a standout. But the real highlight is the back of the doll.
This isn't even visible in the packaging; but I miss the days that Mattel routinely included elements that weren't visible in the packaging. Too many collectibles these days literally show no signs of care for any element that can't be seen new in box, because their target audience is collectors who will keep them in box. Fair enough on some level, but that's just letting Mattel cop out. I appreciate this design a lot.
A repro of Golden Dream Christie was chosen by vote to be among the upcoming releases. She looks modestly authentic, but the hair is a bit of a sticking point to me. I believe that they are going for the same effect; it just doesn't look quite right compared to the original.
In honour of Hispanic Heritage Month, Mattel released a new Inspiring Women doll: this one in the likeness of Ellen Ochoa.
Ochoa was the first Latina in space, and the first Hispanic director of the Johnson Space Centre, and she makes a very lovely Barbie. I love any and all Barbie dolls themed around space and astronauts, I really do.
There was another release that everyone has been talking about; but I'd like to save that for a little later in the month to talk about, given that it's Halloween themed.
