Edelweiss day custom blythe doll
Blythe dolls, originally produced by the Kenner Toy Company in the 1970s, are known for their distinctive, oversized heads and large, expressive eyes that can change color and direction with the pull of a string. Here are some key details about the original Blythe dolls:
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Creation and History: Blythe dolls were created by designer Allison Katzman and introduced in 1972 by the Kenner Toy Company. These dolls were initially marketed as "Kenner's Answer to Barbie" but had a unique and somewhat unconventional appearance compared to other fashion dolls of the time.
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Unique Features:
- Blythe dolls stood approximately 11 inches (28 centimeters) tall.
- They had a special pull-string mechanism that allowed the eyes to change color (blue, green, orange, or pink) and gaze direction (left, right, or straight ahead).
- The dolls had a total of 19 different eye combinations.
- The heads were disproportionately large compared to their bodies, which gave them a distinctive look.
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Fashion and Style: Blythe dolls came with a variety of fashionable outfits and accessories. They were marketed as a fashion doll, and their clothing often reflected the trends of the 1970s.
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Short-Lived Production: Despite their unique features and design, the original Blythe dolls had a short production run. Kenner ceased production in 1972 after only one year due to poor sales. The dolls were discontinued and soon became sought-after collectibles.
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Resurgence: Blythe dolls experienced a revival in the early 2000s, particularly in Japan, where they gained a strong following. New versions of Blythe dolls were created with updated features, fashion styles, and customization options.
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Customization: One of the hallmarks of the Blythe doll community is customization. Enthusiasts often repaint the dolls' faces, restyle their hair, and create unique outfits and accessories. This customization aspect has made Blythe dolls popular among artists and collectors.
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Collaborations and Limited Editions: Blythe dolls have been involved in collaborations with fashion designers, artists, and toy companies, resulting in limited edition releases with exclusive themes, outfits, and accessories.
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Variety of Releases: Over the years, there have been various Blythe doll releases, including Neo Blythe, Middie Blythe, Petite Blythe, and custom Blythe dolls. Each type offers different sizes, styles, and customization options.
The original Blythe dolls are considered iconic in the world of fashion dolls due to their unique design and innovative eye mechanism. They have a dedicated and passionate fan base, and they continue to inspire creativity and artistic expression through customization and photography in the Blythe doll community.