-Edelweiss day custom blythe doll
Neo Blythe is a fashion doll known for her unique features, including a head approximately the size of a grapefruit and a slender body. She is often dressed in specially tailored outfits that accentuate her high fashion sense.
One of Neo Blythe's most distinctive characteristics is her ability to change her eye colors and direction by pulling a string located at the back of her head. This simple action can completely alter her facial expression, making her appear like a different doll each time.
Blythe has gained immense popularity for her fashion-forward style, leading her to become a prominent figure in magazines and advertising campaigns worldwide. Women from various corners of the globe admire Blythe for her ability to reflect current fashion trends.
There are three main types of Blythe dolls: Neo, Petite, and Middie. Neo Blythe stands at 28.5cm tall, Petite Blythe at 11cm tall, and Middie Blythe at 20cm tall. Each type features a unique eye-changing mechanism that adds to their charm and appeal.
Originally manufactured by Kenner in 1972, the original Blythe doll, now referred to as "vintage," was only produced for a year due to poor sales. However, in 1999, Junko Wong, President and CEO of CWC, discovered Blythe snapshots and recognized her potential as a sensation in Japan.
In 2000, Blythe made her comeback in Japan through a captivating TV commercial for Parco department store, sparking a newfound craze for the doll in Asia. Neo Blythe was reintroduced as a fashion doll for adult collectors, marking the beginning of a new era in doll culture.
The first Neo Blythe doll, a Parco Limited Edition, was released in June 2001, followed by various designs inspired by the original Kenner Vintage Blythe. Over the years, CWC continued to produce Neo, Petite, and Middie Blythe dolls, captivating collectors and enthusiasts alike.
From 2001 to 2011, CWC organized Blythe Anniversary Charity Events and exhibitions, featuring one-of-a-kind dolls customized by renowned designers, artists, and musicians. These exhibitions garnered media attention and raised funds for charitable causes worldwide.
In 2002, Petite Blythe, measuring 11 cm, joined the Blythe family, followed by Blythe figurines in 2005 and Middie Blythe in 2010. By 2011, Japan had produced 185 types of Neo Blythe, 200 styles of Petite Blythe, and 5 Middie Blythe dolls.
The "Blythe Collection Guidebook" series documents the extensive range of Blythe dolls released from 2001 to 2021, showcasing the evolution of this iconic doll over the years.