This week I have not very much to tell. The crazy Barbie collector is on vacation. The Santa Claus Ken I wrote about last week has arrived at my apartment in the meantime. Pic gonna follow in January when I’m back home. It’s my goal to enjoy the holiday at my parent’s. We see each other very seldom.
I had no adventures on my trip by train. Within 10 hours I arrived at the city where I was born once. New posts come in the new year 2020 and I hope you have a quiet Christmas without accidents and some time for yourself.
The crazy Barbie collector is back again and has a new topic for you. Christmas is coming up in the next week and it’s time for Santa Claus. In the last weeks a thought came into my mind. What about the Santa Claus Ken?
He came into my mind because I don’t have him in my collection but it would be nice to have one. I have the whole series of Coca Cola Barbie from 1998 & 1999 but Santa Claus is missing. This year I realized it in time and I hope that he’ll arrive in time since I’m not at home for the holidays.
I have them all
I bought almost all dolls from the Coca Cola series several years ago. I have them all, the blonde waitress, the Soda Jerk Ken, the Coca Cola Soda Fountain Sweetheart Barbie with her petticoat, the Majorette and the Cheerleader Barbie. When this series came out around 20 years ago I wanted to have them all. I think they are cute, they are dressed in one of my favorite decade’s outfits and there is a diorama for this series. The diorama, the Coca Cola Soda Fountain, is great. I wish there were more of these dioramas. It came in a giant box from Spain. Okay, I got mine from Spain. Hey, but who cares? The most important thing is to have it. What about you?
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Coca Cola Barbie. NIB. 350 ribu. Damaged box. Kaos kaki kotor dan bahan kulit jaket mengelupas. #jualbarbie #jualmainan #jualboneka #barbie #cocacola #cocacolabarbie #garasirana #sold_garasirana
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Many years I didn’t realize that the Santa Claus Ken belongs to this series because the other dolls look more like it’s more like summer and not like Christmas. Maybe it was the reason why I didn’t consider him being part of this series.
I hope my little photo stories become better and nicer with the new Santa Claus Ken. That’s the joy of a Barbie collector … just play around with your dolls. Believe it or not but I have seldom time to do so.
It’s the passionate Barbie collector back again with a new topic for this week’s blog post. In my previous article, I explored the debut of the first Kelly/Shelly dolls from the mid-1990s. This week, I’m excited to continue where we left off and dive deeper into the fascinating world of these little dolls.
The Kelly/Shelly doll line captivates me in many ways. From their charming designs to their unique features, these dolls offer a special appeal that continues to intrigue collectors and fans alike. Join me as we explore more about these delightful figures and uncover what makes them so captivating.
I don’t have all sets with Shelly/Kelly
Let’s pick up where we left off in our last discussion. I previously introduced you to the “Travelin’ Sisters” set, a charming collection that caught my eye in Michael Augustyniak’s book. He noted it as a Toys”R” Us exclusive, though it’s unclear if it was only sold there, especially since we didn’t have Toys”R” Us stores around at that time.
Around the late 1990s, several delightful special Kelly/Shelly sets were released, and the “Travelin’ Sisters” set is a prime example. What makes this set particularly intriguing is its international variation. The Japanese version features Barbie with a Bob Mackie face, while the US version showcases a smiling Superstar face. This variation was quite common in the 1990s, and I suspect that some of my readers may not have encountered this difference before.
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Another incredibly charming set that I discovered is the “Birthday Fun Kelly” gift set. I received this delightful set as a Christmas present in 1996. The Kelly and Chelsie dolls were simply irresistible, and I was thrilled to have them, thanks to my aunt’s thoughtful gift.
Interestingly, this set was never officially listed as a Toys”R” Us exclusive, despite being available at their stores. I’ve never seen it anywhere else, which adds to its unique charm. It seems that finding the perfect Christmas gift for an 11-year-old girl today might be more challenging, as trends and preferences have evolved significantly since then.
This set remains a special memory for me, reflecting how certain toys can hold a unique place in our hearts long after they’ve been discontinued.
Ein Beitrag geteilt von whitney.barbiedoll (@whitney.barbiedoll) am
Exclusive Barbie Sets: A Look at Target, Grocery, and Sears Releases
In 1998, Target offered an intriguing variant of the Power Wheels Tommy and Kelly gift set in blue, contrasting with the regular pink version. This blue set is exceptionally rare; I’ve only come across it in books, never in person. Finding a pink version in pristine, never-removed-from-box (NRFB) condition is also a challenge today. After many years of searching, I finally managed to acquire one in 2018. Although the set is quite heavy, I hesitate to debox it, as it remains a treasured part of my collection.
Special sets like these were often available at major retailers such as Toys”R” Us, Target, Wal-Mart, and grocery stores. These retailers frequently offered variants of regular sets, like the KB Tiny Steps Kelly in 2003 or the Love ‘n Care Kelly in 2002. Typically, these variants included fewer accessories and toys, which allowed them to be sold at a lower price point. This strategy likely aimed to boost sales by making the dolls more affordable while still appealing to collectors.
What about you? Have you encountered any rare or unique Barbie sets in your collecting journey?
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Pink Power Wheels Kelly and Tommy gift set from 1997. #1997barbie #barbie1997 #barbiekellydoll #powerwheelskelly #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Special Kelly dolls for every season
Throughout the years, various retailers have offered exclusive Barbie sets that added unique charm to any collection. For instance, Target released the “Halloween Kelly” line in 2000, a festive set that captured the spirit of the season. Grocery stores featured the “Holiday Kelly” series, available for several years and reflecting seasonal cheer. Sears also contributed with the “Evening Recital” gift set, which included Barbie, Kelly, Tommy, and Stacie, showcasing a festive ensemble perfect for special occasions.
Rather than just listing what was available or what I don’t have, I’d love to share some of my favorite sets with you. Over the years, I’ve been fortunate to find some truly special dolls. However, the journey of collecting is ongoing, and there are still several dolls on my wish list.
Isn’t it intriguing how the desire to find that perfect addition never really fades? The quest for rare and unique items often seems endless. Do you think this constant yearning for new pieces ever truly stops? Will our collections ever be complete, or is there always another treasure to seek?
I’m eager to hear your thoughts and experiences. Do you believe that the thrill of collecting and the pursuit of new finds ever comes to an end?
Showcasing My Favorite Barbie Sets: A Look at What I Have
I’d truly love to share some of the adorable Holiday Kelly and Friends sets with you, but unfortunately, I don’t have any at the moment. However, I do have a collection of other delightful sets that I’m excited to show off.
Though I may not have the Holiday Kelly sets, the ones I do possess are just as charming and provide a wonderful overview of the various themes and designs in my collection. From festive ensembles to unique editions, these sets reflect the diverse and intriguing world of Barbie.
Let’s take a closer look at the sets I have. They offer a glimpse into the different topics and styles covered throughout the years, showcasing the creativity and appeal of Barbie and her friends. I hope you’ll enjoy exploring these sets as much as I do!
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Tiny Steps Kelly, special version from KB, had less toys than the regular doll. #kellyclub #tinystepskelly #barbieshelly #shellyclub #kellyclub #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
The Quest for the Kelly Pretty Kitty Gift Set
One of the standout pieces in my collection is the Kelly Pretty Kitty gift set, which proved to be quite a challenge to find. After an extensive search that spanned several years, I was thrilled to finally add this elusive set to my collection.
Finding certain Barbie sets can sometimes take an extraordinary amount of time and effort. The Kelly Pretty Kitty set was no exception, as its rarity meant that locating one required persistence and patience. The journey to find such rare items is a testament to the dedication and passion of collectors.
If you’ve ever searched for a specific set or item, you know how rewarding it can be when you finally track it down. The hunt for these unique pieces is often as exciting as the collection itself, adding to the overall joy and satisfaction of being a Barbie enthusiast.
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
A Hidden Gem: The Tommy and Kelly Soccer Set
One of the most charming additions to my collection is the Tommy and Kelly Soccer set. I was delighted to discover this adorable set last year, especially since I had never encountered it in Europe before.
The soccer set’s cuteness and unique appeal made it a standout find. It’s always exciting to come across a rare or previously unseen item, particularly when it adds a new dimension to your collection. The joy of finding such treasures is part of what makes collecting so rewarding.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just starting, stumbling upon a special set like this one is always a thrilling experience. It’s moments like these that remind us of the endless possibilities in the world of Barbie collectibles.
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Tommy and Kelly soccer gift set from 1999. It’s a Target exclusive set. #kelly1999 #barbiekellydoll #barbiesisters #kellyclub #target? #barbie1999 #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Discovering the Shelly and Pony Set: A Spring 2019 Find
In the spring of 2019, I came across an adorable addition to my collection: the Shelly and Pony set. This charming set caught my eye and quickly became a favorite.
I’m unsure whether this set was exclusive to Europe or if it was available in other regions as well. The delightful combination of Shelly and her pony certainly adds a unique touch to any Barbie collection.
Finding such special sets is always an exciting experience, especially when their origin or availability is a bit of a mystery. If you have any insights or information about this set, I’d love to hear from you!
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
The Adorable Love ‘n Care Kelly Set: Kelly’s Bedtime with Chickenpox
Another irresistibly cute addition to my collection is the Love ‘n Care Kelly set. This set features Kelly in a cozy bed, complete with a playful detail—she’s depicted with chickenpox.
The Love ‘n Care Kelly set stands out for its unique and endearing concept. The depiction of Kelly dealing with chickenpox adds a charming touch of realism and imagination to the set, making it a standout piece in any Barbie collection.
These delightful and themed sets showcase the creativity and attention to detail that make Barbie dolls so special. They also reflect how Barbie and her friends were designed to resonate with various aspects of everyday life, even in their most playful forms.
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Love n Care Kelly from 2002, special edition with less toys and the dress is lacking. She was sold at KB. #kellydolls #kellydoll #barbiesister #kelly2002 #barbie2002 #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #kb #specialedition #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiestagram
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
A Cherished Early Find: The “Tea for Three” Kelly Gift Set
We shouldn’t overlook the “Tea for Three” Kelly gift set, which holds a special place in my collection. This charming set was one of my early acquisitions and was among the first to make its way into my collection soon after its release.
The “Tea for Three” set features Kelly and her friends in a delightful tea party scene, capturing a whimsical and heartwarming moment. Its addition to my collection marked an exciting milestone and remains a beloved piece.
Early sets like this often have a unique significance, as they represent the beginning of a collector’s journey and the joy of discovering new and endearing additions to their collection.
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A very cute Toys R us exclusive set was the “Tea for Three Kelly gift set” from 2003. She comes with two plush friends, chairs and a table so that they can have tea immediately. #barbiekelly #kellyteaforthree #kelly2003 #barbie2003 #toysrus #barbiesuperstar #superstarbarbie #busybfromgermany #kellyclub #kellystagram #barbiestagram #barbiedoctor
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Another Adorable Find at Toys”R” Us: A Set to Fall in Love With
Let’s stay at Toys”R” Us for a moment and explore another incredibly cute set that’s sure to capture your heart. This set, like many others from Toys”R” Us, exudes charm and has a unique appeal that makes it a standout piece in any Barbie collection.
The set in question is delightfully endearing, with every detail meticulously crafted to charm collectors and fans alike. From its thoughtful accessories to the cute and lovable characters, this set truly embodies the playful spirit that makes Barbie so special.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of Barbie, finding such adorable sets can be a highlight of your collecting journey. Stay tuned as we dive deeper into more of these enchanting finds!
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That’s the Kelly & Liana dress up friends gift set. Very cute and a Toys r us exclusive from 2002. #kellyandfriends #kellyandfriend #kellydoll #barbiedoll #kelly2002 #barbie2002 #superstarbarbie #toysrus #kellystagram #barbiestagram #dollcollector #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Exploring Unique Foreign Sets: The Wedding Barbie & Kelly from the Philippines
We shouldn’t overlook the intriguing foreign sets featuring Kelly and Barbie. Currently, I have one such unique set in my collection: the Wedding Barbie & Kelly from the Philippines.
This set stands out not only for its distinctive theme but also for its cultural charm. The Wedding Barbie & Kelly set offers a glimpse into the international appeal of Barbie, showcasing how different regions put their unique spin on beloved characters.
The Philippine edition of this set is particularly captivating, with its special design and details that reflect local influences. It’s a testament to the global reach of Barbie and the diverse ways in which she has been embraced and celebrated around the world.
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Wrapping Up: The Fascinating World of Shelly/Kelly Variations
I hope you enjoyed exploring the diverse range of Shelly/Kelly sets with me. While I don’t have every set, my collection is always evolving, and I’m continually on the lookout for new additions. If you happen to come across any Shelly/Kelly sets that I might not have, please let me know!
As my collection grows, I look forward to sharing more discoveries with you. Perhaps in the future, I’ll be able to write a third part to this series, showcasing even more of these charming little dolls.
Thank you for joining me on this journey through the wonderful world of Shelly/Kelly. I hope you share my enthusiasm for these delightful dolls and that you’ve enjoyed the article as much as I have enjoyed writing it.
Greetings and yeah, the crazy Barbiecollector is back with a new topic for you. Let’s talk about the hair today. Yeah, that’s what I want to talk about. I guess you never thought about the fibres on the head of a Barbie doll. I asssure you that you’re not the only one. There are different fibres that were used for different dolls in different decades. I give you a pic for every fibre as an example.
Saran hair
I can’t prove it because I’m no chemist but I think the first form of hair for Barbie dolls was Saran hair. Saran hair is soft and silky. In general it’s available in natural colors like different shades of blonde, brown, red and black. I can tell you from my experience in rerooting that it’s a material easy to work with. I heard collectors talking about that Vintage Barbie dolls – the very first ones – have a kind of mohair but nobody was able to proof it. So there a two fronts among the collectors – the ones who believe it and – the ones who don’t it.
I belong to the front who don’t believe it. Why? Saran hair is/was mainly produced in Japan. Guess what? Early Barbie dolls were produced until 1970 in Japan too. Mohair is more expensive. I can imagine from what I know of the Mattel history that production centralisation is/was an important factor. In times before stock reduction and in-time production I’m convinced that they used what they had in their production area or maybe in their own country due to short delivery ways, time and costs.
Importing goods is always time-consuming and expensive when you consider the import-fees and taxes. Wouldn’t it be cheaper produce with the products you have in your own country?
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Let's welcome my latest #modbarbie. She's a Platinum Twist n Turn Barbie who recently found her way into my collection. I hope you like her as much as I do. #barbietnt #tntbarbie #vintagebarbie #barbievintage #dollstagram #barbiemod #barbie1967 #barbieblond #superstarbarbie #barbiesuperstar #busybfromgermany #barbiedoctor #barbiedoctora??
Ein Beitrag geteilt von Busy B from Germany (@busybfromgermany) am
Nylon hair
The material Nylon itself was discovered in the 1930s and mainly used for stockings for ladies at first. I found out that the first Nylon wigs were available in the 1960s. I found an ad on youtube. Since I only found chemical formulas I would estimate that Nylon hair was in the 1960s probably too expensive to use it for Barbie dolls. Do I have to mention that Nylon hair is very shiny and comes in thousand different colors? When you need a wig for carnival Nylon is your material. I assume from what I’ve seen so far that Nylon hair was used first for Barbie in the 1980s. The first dolls I know with this kind of hair are Barbie & the Rockers. Nylon hair was not used as widely as Saran hair was for Barbie dolls. I think it appears several times on special occasions but it was no standard.
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De vuelta a la vida ? #barbieandtherockers #barbierockers #80sbarbie #1986 #barbiefashions #barbiestyle #barbielife #ilovebarbie #barbiegram #instabarbie #barbiephotography #rockers #barbierocks #barbiespain #bringbacktolife #barbielover #barbiefan #barbieholic #matteldoll #barbie
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Kanekalon hair
By the mid 80s a new form of hair was avaiable for Barbie. At first only a few dolls hat Kanekalon hair. I saw a Dream Glow Barbie with it and a Doctor Barbie. Maybe these dolls were something like a test if a child would accept it or not? I don’t know it. Anyway, Kanekalon hair is one of the big topics of the 1990s. Suddenly all Barbie dolls came with Kanekalon hair. There are a few exceptions like Hollywood Hair Barbie and Strollin’ Fun Barbie and Kelly/Shelly but 98% of the production of the 1990s had Kanekalon hair. As far as I was able to find out… Kanekalon is a cheap kind of hair, easy to produce and easy to work with although it tends to tangles. Probably cheaper in the dozen.
That’s why you often see Barbie dolls with bad hair cuts from the 1990s. You find the explaination why these dolls have hair cuts in the fibre itself.
Ein Beitrag geteilt von 90s Barbie (@90s.barbie.world) am
Conclusion
These three types of hair were used in the last 60 years. I don’t think that there’s much going on the market. From what I’ve seen in the last decade Mattel started to use Saran hair again. The amount of hair is smaller than it was 20 years ago but Saran hair is still used as Barbie hair while Kanekalon hair and Nylon hair are almost gone.
