American Girl plays with the classics.
To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the toy company has modernized its iconic line of historic dolls as part of its new Modern Era collection.
Samantha Parkington’s signature plaid dress has received a “playful update,” according to a press release from Mattel. Instead of a drop-waist frock, Orphan now wears a pink satin top with a short plaid skirt featuring pink tulle. Her black tights and Mary Jane shoes were also replaced with ankle socks and faux leather ballet flats with pink ribbons.
Meanwhile, Josefina Montoya received “a modern update inspired by her life in 1824, with deep red ruffled shorts, colorful primrose accents, and cowgirl boots,” according to the toy brand.
Other historical characters that are part of the new collection include Addie Walker, Molly McIntyre, Felicity Merriman, and Kirsten Larson, whose braided pigtails became a space bun.
The doll itself has also been reduced in size, now measuring 14.5 inches tall compared to the original 18 inches tall. And fans definitely noticed the difference.
