Blythe dolls, with their oversized eyes and distinctive style, have captivated collectors and enthusiasts around the world. These iconic dolls, which have undergone a fascinating evolution over the years, are more than just toys—they are cultural artifacts that represent a unique intersection of art, fashion, and nostalgia. In this article, we will delve into the history of Blythe dolls, their enduring appeal, and how they have become a timeless collectible for generations.
The Origins of Blythe Dolls
The story of Blythe dolls begins in the early 1970s, a time when the world of dolls was dominated by more traditional and realistic-looking toys like Barbie. Blythe’s creation was the brainchild of designer Allison Katzman, working for the toy company Kenner, which had previously been responsible for successful toy lines such as the Easy-Bake Oven. Blythe was introduced to the market in 1972 as a new kind of doll—one that would stand out from the crowd with its exaggerated features and surreal, oversized eyes.
At first glance, Blythe dolls are anything but conventional. Their eyes are their most striking feature—gigantic and capable of shifting colors from brown, blue, green, and yellow with the simple pull of a string. This ability to change eye colors was a gimmick that Kenner hoped would attract children’s attention, but unfortunately, the dolls didn’t gain much popularity in their original run. Blythe was discontinued in 1974, after a mere two years on the market.
Despite their initial lack of success, Blythe dolls had a cult following that would not be ignored. Their unique appearance and quirky charm caught the attention of creative minds, and soon, they became a symbol of artistic expression and nostalgia. Little did anyone know, Blythe dolls were about to undergo a stunning revival that would propel them into the hearts of collectors and fashion enthusiasts for decades to come.
The Resurgence of Blythe Dolls
Blythe dolls remained relatively obscure for years after their discontinuation, until the late 1990s, when they were rediscovered by a new generation of collectors. It all started with a chance encounter between Blythe and Japanese fashion designer, Junko Wong. Wong, who was already known for her eclectic taste and love of quirky vintage finds, stumbled upon a few original Kenner Blythe dolls while on a shopping trip in the United States.
Wong’s fascination with Blythe dolls led her to create custom versions that she could showcase in her boutique. Her creations caught the attention of Japan’s burgeoning doll-collecting community, which quickly embraced the quirky charm of Blythe dolls. By 2001, Takara, a Japanese toy company, had secured the rights to produce Blythe dolls, officially bringing them back into production. This marked the beginning of Blythe’s revival as a highly sought-after collectible.
Takara’s new versions of Blythe dolls were crafted with incredible attention to detail, and they featured numerous updates to the original design, including improved articulation, better quality materials, and more elaborate outfits. As a result, Blythe dolls quickly gained a loyal following in Japan, and soon their appeal spread globally. Today, Blythe dolls are not only a collectible item but a canvas for creativity, fashion, and personalization.
Blythe Dolls as a Canvas for Art and Fashion
One of the primary reasons Blythe dolls have become such an enduring collectible is their versatility as a blank canvas for artistic expression. Unlike many other dolls, Blythe’s exaggerated features allow for a high degree of customization. Collectors and artists alike enjoy the process of creating their own unique versions of Blythe, changing her clothes, hairstyles, and even her facial features.
The process of customizing a Blythe doll is often referred to as “re-rooting,” where artists replace the doll’s original hair with custom-made wigs, or “repainting,” where the doll’s face is repainted to achieve a completely new look. Some artists go as far as to create entire themed collections of Blythe dolls, often involving intricate, one-of-a-kind outfits, accessories, and even furniture to accompany them.
Blythe dolls have also become a fixture in the world of fashion. Given their connection to the world of art and creativity, it’s no surprise that fashion designers have embraced them as a form of self-expression. Designers often dress their Blythe dolls in high-end, vintage-inspired clothing, creating miniature runway-ready looks that often mirror the latest fashion trends. Some designers even collaborate with Blythe to create exclusive outfits and limited-edition dolls, which only serve to increase their value as collectibles.
Blythe Dolls in Popular Culture
Beyond the world of art and fashion, Blythe dolls have also carved a niche for themselves in popular culture. In fact, their distinctive look has made them a popular subject for music videos, photography, and even film. The most notable example of this is the 2008 film Welcome to the Dollhouse, which was inspired by the world of Blythe dolls. The film’s director, Todd Haynes, used the doll’s surreal and dreamlike appearance as a metaphor for the experience of childhood and adolescence.
In addition to films, Blythe has been featured in numerous music videos. Artists from a variety of genres have used the doll as a visual motif to convey themes of innocence, nostalgia, or surrealism. The doll’s appeal lies in its ability to evoke both childhood memories and the uncanny, creating a sense of wonder and intrigue in the viewer.
Moreover, Blythe dolls have become popular subjects in photography and art galleries. Many photographers and visual artists use Blythe dolls as models in their work, creating elaborate settings and narratives that explore themes such as identity, consumerism, and nostalgia. Blythe’s otherworldly eyes and blank expression make her the perfect muse for artists looking to explore themes of doll-like perfection and the human desire for control and transformation.
The Blythe Doll Community
Part of the reason Blythe dolls have become such a timeless collectible is the passionate and dedicated community of collectors and enthusiasts who have sprung up around them. This community is global, with groups and forums dedicated to discussing all things Blythe. Whether it’s sharing customization tips, buying and selling dolls, or simply admiring each other’s collections, the Blythe community provides a space for individuals to connect and share their love for these unique dolls.
The internet has played a significant role in the Blythe doll resurgence. Online marketplaces such as eBay, Etsy, and specialized Blythe forums have allowed collectors to exchange dolls, accessories, and customization ideas. Social media platforms, particularly Instagram and Pinterest, have also given rise to a new generation of Blythe enthusiasts who share their creations and connect with like-minded individuals.
Some collectors go as far as to travel the world to attend Blythe conventions and events, where they can meet other collectors, buy rare and limited-edition dolls, and participate in contests and fashion shows. These gatherings are an important part of the Blythe community, providing a chance for people to celebrate their shared love for the doll.
Blythe Dolls as a Timeless Collectible
Over the years, Blythe dolls have continued to grow in both popularity and value. Vintage Kenner Blythe dolls, particularly those in mint condition, can fetch thousands of dollars on the resale market, making them a prized possession for serious collectors. Custom Blythe dolls, especially those created by well-known artists, can also command high prices due to their unique nature and craftsmanship.
The enduring appeal of Blythe dolls can be attributed to their combination of nostalgia, artistic expression, and the ability to evoke a sense of wonder. Whether you are a collector, an artist, or simply someone who appreciates their beauty, Blythe dolls remain a timeless collectible that continues to inspire creativity and passion.
Conclusion
Blythe dolls have come a long way from their humble beginnings in the 1970s, and their evolution into a globally recognized collectible is a testament to their unique appeal. From their quirky design to their endless possibilities for customization, Blythe dolls have captured the hearts of people worldwide. Whether displayed on a shelf as a work of art, used as a tool for creative expression, or cherished as a nostalgic keepsake, Blythe dolls continue to stand the test of time as a beloved and timeless collectible.