Alyrenee's Copious Spare Time

 Nothing says doll people like SPORTSBALLZ? Yeah, while I appreciate the playfulness, I am not sure it is totally working for me.  But it means I don't have to buy it all, so that is a small victory. For Rayna, the face is gorgeous as usual and I like the hair. I don't think we have seen this particular style before (or at least not recently.) Industry Sookie had pigtails but they were in different positions.  It is also nice to see Rayna with red hair. I also love the little kitten heels for the flat feet.  Can we please get a shoe pack now?  I need more kitten heels and some sneakers. The rest of the outfit is not really working for me. The pants are kind of cute and I could see a fun cropped colorful football jersey or something...but the deconstructed coat with the padded shoulders is not my fav. Had there been an extra pair of shoes or even a more substantial blouse/top...it would make an easier sell. But at $175, I am having a real struggle.  Item # 8...

 Carol's "eating workshop" began with the usual sharing of the rules and a new request for people to not yuck each other's yum. I appreciated that as, in general, I turn off the comments for any presentation so I don't have to see that nonsense and tend to block W Club users that just trash what other like.  It is fine to disagree and voice that opinion...but some people just have no class. Here is a run down of the information shared: The design talk commenced then with Vaughn Sawyers, Jessy Ayala, David Buttry, Chris Stoeckel, Alain Trembley, and Carol Roth. They all shared their IT "origin stories". Mark  is going back to Misaki. Excited to see it. Vaughn's obligatory 'pipeline supply chain issue' explanations.  David -Future of Poppy Parker...she will time travel back and forth...modern twist on vintage. Jessy- Working on new characters (in response to a question about more Asian representation) Chris - Victoire's husband...not in th...

While the Convention Welcome Doll knocked me out, the convention collection was a bit of a mixed bag.  THE WINNER FOR ME. The Victoire is KILLER. I adore Mugler and this is a must have for me. The East 59th dolls are always gorgeous and have amazing details, construction, and design inspiration. Chris Stoeckel killed it and really brought something new here. I am going to cry if I don't get one in the lottery. Also...the photos are great for this doll. I am in love. I am thinking the pink jacket is going to pair nicely with the pieces from the Victoire heist outfit...that had all the black pieces...from Gloss convention maybe? Victoire Roux Is Obsessed with Surrealist Art! 1950s top-model Victoire Roux channels her own personal Obsession for modern art and beauty, as she pays homage to her friend and fellow French citizen, famous surrealist visual artist Man Ray! Wearing an original creation by Integrity Toys designer Chris Stoeckel, this truly unique doll features a special ...

 Here we are. Virtual convention has begun. Earlier this month, convention ticket holders were treated to a little pre-celebration goodie bag that had a shopping bag, lanyard, badge, schedule, and a little case with spare hands and a cosmetic set. It was a thoughtful touch and helped build a little excitement. (Though a little less exciting for International collectors which had to pay customs on it..boo).  And finally the day is here.  I will admit to being slightly less than enthusiastic...mostly because it is hard to get psyched when you know you will still have to wait awhile to get the dolls (due to ongoing shipping delays).   However, my excitement level rose quite a bit when they introduced Mark Tinkey as the designer for the welcome doll and it turned out to be a Nu Fantasy giftset!He is so charming and really brings a lot of passion and joy to his work.  I appreciate the playability here and the thoughtful way he put this set together...even thinki...