Celebrating Barbie’s Birthday with Vintage Gift Sets | A Doll Shop Chat with Christopher Johnson

Join Christopher Johnson at the doll shop as we celebrate Barbie’s birthday month with a fun and fascinating conversation about some of Christopher’s favorite vintage Barbie gift sets released over the years.

From iconic fashion collections to memorable boxed sets, Christopher shares his knowledge and passion for these special releases that helped shape Barbie history. This is a relaxed and informative chat full of nostalgia, doll stories, and beautiful vintage Barbie pieces.

If you love Barbie dolls, vintage fashion sets, and doll collecting history, you’ll enjoy spending this time with us in the shop celebrating one of the most beloved dolls in the world.

The video will air on the VDC Facebook and YouTube Channel at 10 AM MDT (come back for viewing anytime!)

Thank you for being part of our doll collecting community.

Sybil’s Observations: The Prodigy

I have been watching Ellowyne rather closely these past few days.

She has taken to the library again — which, I must say, she does whenever she wishes to appear particularly thoughtful. There are books everywhere. Tall stacks, little piles, and the occasional open volume left behind as though she has just uncovered some marvelous idea and rushed off to pursue it.

It seems she has entered what I can only describe as her prodigious phase.

They are calling this look The Prodigy, and honestly, the name fits rather well.

Ellowyne appears wonderfully studious in a soft grey beret perched atop her dark curls, paired with a richly textured sweater in warm autumn tones.

Naturally, she carries a satchel — the sort meant for notebooks, sketches, and clever thoughts that seem far too important to explain to anyone else.

This particular Ellowyne Wilde was created by Robert Tonner as the third doll in the Dark Academia series, and she is quite exclusive. Only 195 dolls will be available, as Robert has quietly kept five for his personal archive.

For collectors who appreciate Ellowyne at her most thoughtful and quietly brilliant, The Prodigy is a particularly charming chapter in this series.

She will be available for $240, and available at 11 AM MDT in the Ellowyne and Friends Boutique.

Though if you ask me, she already looks as though she knows something the rest of us have yet to discover.

— Sybil

From the Desk (and Windowsill) of Sybil

Well… something sparkly is happening again.

Ellowyne has been pacing about the dressing room all morning, holding fabrics up to the light and tilting her head in that very particular way she does when she believes she is being terribly fashionable. I, of course, have been supervising from the windowsill — where the lighting is much better for proper judgment.

All I will say for now is this:
there has been an unreasonable amount of twinkling.

Silver, to be specific.

Every time she moves, the entire room seems to catch little flashes of light — as though someone spilled a handful of stars across her wardrobe. There are neat little buttons marching down the front, tiny bows that appear to be behaving themselves (for the moment), and a silhouette that is rather sleek and modern compared to some of the gowns she insists on collecting.

Naturally, Ellowyne believes the look is “perfectly glamorous.”

I suspect it may be slightly… tiresome.

And then — in what I can only describe as a shocking development — she decided I should have a matching ensemble.

Yes.
Me.

Apparently when one is a cat of distinction, one must occasionally participate in fashion moments whether one approves or not.

I will not reveal everything just yet.
But if you notice a little sparkle drifting onto the VDC subscription boxes soon…

Do not say I didn’t warn you.

You may witness the entire spectacle during the reveal video at 10 AM MDT, where the VDC team will finally show what Ellowyne has been twinkling about all morning.

And if you wish to add a bit of sparkle to your own collection, shopping for accessories and The Prodigy Ellowyne Wilde will begin at 11 AM MDT, immediately following the video.

Until then, I shall be here…
trying not to sparkle.

— Sybil

Rachel is back with another chatty life update, and this one is full of all sorts of real-life moments behind the scenes.

At 35 weeks pregnant, Rachel shares how the past month has been going, what these final weeks of pregnancy have felt like, and how she’s preparing for baby boy’s arrival. She also talks about Derek’s exciting milestone — finally moving into his new pottery studio on the same block as the doll shop — a moment that has been years in the making.

Along the way, Rachel reflects on the balance of motherhood, running a doll business, creative life, and everything happening behind the scenes at VDC.

It’s a relaxed, cozy conversation — the kind of video that’s perfect to watch with a cup of tea or have playing in the background while you enjoy time with your dolls.

Come catch up and spend a little time with Rachel.

🌊 Coming Soon to the Anne Subscription: Shimmering Shores 🌊

Ahoy, Anne friends…

A new adventure is drifting in on the tide, and this month imagination sets sail.

Shimmering Shores invites you into a world of storytelling, seaside breezes, and a little bit of theatrical mischief. Anne has been busy preparing something quite dramatic — and let’s just say there may be whispers of treasure, costumes, and a performance that requires just the right amount of confidence.

Expect rich textures.
Expect movement.
Expect a look that feels ready for applause… or perhaps a daring escape.

And for those who enjoy expanding Anne’s wardrobe? There may be an optional companion piece that feels softer, lighter — as though it belongs beneath open skies after the curtain falls.

As always, this month’s box includes charming storytelling and artwork that brings Anne’s imaginative world to life, along with tiny details designed to spark creativity and playful scenes in your collection.

Our reveal video will feature the VDC team, and we truly cannot wait for you to see it. Join us at 10 AM MST for the premiere — it’s going to be such a fun one.

Add-on shopping will begin at 11 AM MST in the Anne Boutique.

We won’t reveal all the secrets just yet.

But if your Anne has ever dreamed of adventure, sparkle, and a little seaside drama…

This is her moment.

Stay tuned — the tide is rising.

The whispers are true… Season Five of Grace’s A Journey Through Time begins here. Join Rachel, Christopher, and Tamara Casey for the very first reveal and see the debut historical ensemble that launches this brand-new chapter.

Tune in at 10 AM MST for the live reveal filled with fashion, storytelling, and collector fun. You will see the outfit of the month, and enjoy lots of conversation and banter about fashion and doll collecting (plus hear news about what is coming up!)

At 11 AM MST, an optional coordinating pair of shoes will also be available in the Grace Boutique as a special add-on to complete the look.

A new season. A new silhouette. A new journey through time.

Want to join? Registration is open!

Announcing: Grace’s Historical Clothing Subscription — Season Five

We are so excited to publish registration date for Season Five of Grace’s Historical Clothing Subscription, a year-long journey through fashion history designed especially for Grace collectors who love beauty, storytelling, and craftsmanship.

This season will span an entire year of historical garments, with inspirations ranging from the 1500s through the 1960s. Throughout the year, Grace will explore a thoughtfully curated wardrobe —some lovingly reimagined, and others faithfully inspired by true museum originals. It will be every bit as special as Season 4.

Every garment in Season Five will be:

• Impressive and beautifully made

• Rich in historical inspiration

• Designed to be enjoyed, styled, and appreciated by collectors

• Brought to life through paper dolls and crafts by Diana Vining

As always, this subscription is meant to be fun, immersive, and deeply satisfying for those who enjoy historical fashion through dolls.

Each monthly box will also include a brand-new digital download sewing pattern by Tamara Casey of Designs by Jude, created to complement the season’s theme and allow collectors to engage creatively with Grace’s world.

Registration details:

• Registration will first open to Season Four members on February 20 at 9 AM MST, followed by the waiting. Want to join? Click here!

• A reveal video for the first box will follow shortly after registration opens (Date TBD soon!)

Season Five is shaping up to be a truly special chapter for Grace—one that celebrates history, artistry, and the joy of collecting. We cannot wait to begin this journey with you.

A Letter from Sybil

I noticed her before Ellowyne did.
I always do.
(That is what happens when you are vigilant, intelligent, and nap lightly with one eye open.)

She arrived quietly — not drifting, not wandering — but belonging. As though the room had been waiting for her all along. I checked. It had. Where The Wanderer moves through the world asking questions, this one already knows the answers. And does not feel compelled to share them.

They call her The Aristocrat.

She does not rush. She does not explain herself. She does not trip over furniture, knock things off shelves, or pretend she didn’t mean to. She stands with purpose, with lineage, with certainty. There is history in her posture and intention in every detail. The sort of presence that suggests she has never once apologized for taking up space. I respect that.

Collectors may recognize something special here.
I did immediately.

The Aristocrat is a striking Neema, designed by Robert Tonner, created as a natural stylistic companion to The Wanderer. Together, they reflect two sides of the same world — movement and stillness, curiosity and confidence. One asks, “What’s out there?”
The other says, “Yes. I know.”
Neither requires permission.

She is limited to just 195 pieces, as Robert has wisely reserved five for his personal archive. (I, too, keep a private archive. Mostly of grudges.) She will be offered at $230.00, with one per customer, and will be listed for sale following the Ellowyne Subscription Box reveal on February 13th at 11 AM MST in the Ellowyne Boutique.

Why collectors are drawn to her:

• She complements The Wanderer in tone, styling, and narrative — without implying obligation, completion, or emotional dependency

• She is the second release in Robert Tonner’s Dark Academia series, a six-doll collection debuting in 2026

• Her design brings depth, restraint, and excellent posture to a Neema collection

• Her limited edition size ensures rarity while keeping the focus on artistry and story

• She carries a quiet confidence that suggests she has always been in control of the situation

Some dolls announce themselves.
She simply takes her place.
And expects the room to adjust accordingly.

I approve of this Neema.
Please understand the weight of that statement.

— Sybil

A Letter from Sybil

Ellowyne has been standing in her wardrobe for quite some time now.

Not pacing. Not panicking. Simply staring — as one does — at an excessive number of perfectly good options while insisting she has nothing to wear.

I have observed this ritual many times. I have tried blinking slowly at her. I have tried sitting on the shoes. I have even tried staring directly into her soul. None of this helped.

This month’s dilemma is called Wardrobe Woes.

Inspired by vintage 1990s Vivienne Westwood, the February ensemble captures that very specific moment when one is surrounded by garments, history, and excellent tailoring… and still feels mildly overwhelmed. The look is thoughtful, structured, a little rebellious, and entirely appropriate for standing motionless in a grand wardrobe while contemplating one’s entire existence. Fashion does that.

I approve.
Mostly.
(Which is significant.)

As always, Ellowyne’s subscription box includes her outfit of the month, with coordinating nylons. The purse and shoes are optional add-ons.

I will not be taking questions. I am a cat, not a sorceress. The usual extras are included, though they were not my idea. The real activity begins after the reveal.

The reveal video will air at 10 AM MST, at which point Ellowyne will explain her feelings at length. I will be nearby, pretending not to listen while listening to everything. At 11 AM MST, the Ellowyne Boutique doors open for add-ons, including:

• The Aristocrat Neema, who does not suffer from wardrobe indecision and has never once asked for reassurance

• A pink variation of the Wardrobe Woes outfit, for those feeling bolder or emotionally reckless

• A restock of Shadows and Lace from October (I told you it would return; you did not listen)

• Two purse variations designed to complement Wardrobe Woes beautifully and give Ellowyne yet another reason to stand there sighing

• Three pairs of different colored heels to coordinate with Wardrobe Woes.

• There is also a red-and-white Valentine’s Day–themed outfit for me, though I find the sentiment excessive and the color choice emotionally aggressive.

Ellowyne will, of course, still insist she has nothing to wear.
I will, of course, remain seated.
Someone must maintain order.

Warm regards (emotionally neutral, but observant),
Sybil

The Anne’s Dress-Up Trunk returns this February with a story about bravery, creativity, and finding your own kind of magic.

This month, Anne discovers that confidence doesn’t have to be loud or scary — sometimes it’s bright, cheerful, and entirely your own. Inspired by a costume she creates for herself, Anne steps into something playful and joyful that helps her feel brave, seen, and completely at home in who she is. It’s a celebration of imagination, self-expression, and the courage to try something new.

The clothing is designed by Mark Tinkey.

As always, the box is filled with delights — crafts, treats, and more — and this month includes a special surprise gift just for subscribers: an additional dress tucked inside the trunk as a thank-you.

Join us for the REVEAL VIDEO with Rachel, Mark Tinkey, and Diana Vining — a reveal full of laughter, heart, and storytelling that truly captures the spirit of Anne. The video will air on YouTube and Facebook.

A limited accessory release will follow in the Anne Boutique after the video.

Monday, February 9
Video airs at 10 AM MST
Boutique release with custom high-tops and extra boxes from last month follows at 11 AM MST

This one is joyful, heartfelt, and very Anne — we can’t wait to share it with you.

Three New Grace Dolls Go on Sale

2026 Update! The Dolls are now only $210.00 as they do not come with stands.

It’s finally time — three brand-new Grace dolls are arriving at VDC!

Each Grace features gorgeous rooted hair, all-new makeup looks, and incredible hairstyles designed by Robert Tonner. These dolls are on the classic Grace 16” RTB-101 sized doll body. Every doll arrives inside a VDC branded box with certificate, along with her own “gift set” featuring five pieces:

• a dress ($20.00 value)

• a leotard ($18.00 value)

• jeans ($20.00 value)

• Underwear ($5.00 value)

• and fabulous silver shoes ($20.00 value)

All for $210 each — unbelieveable pricing, and we worked hard to keep this release affordable for our collectors. Each doll arrives nude inside the VDC box, with her clothing gift set tucked inside for instant dressing fun.

NOTE - there is no stand included, so the dolls now include a slight discount, priced at only $210.00 each - including the clothing!

Each Grace Gift Set includes the doll plus a full clothing gift bundle. Think of the wardrobe pieces as a gift-with-purchase — the dolls alone would be $225 without them. Many collectors keep everything, while others enjoy using the extras as holiday gifts, raffle items, doll-club donations, or surprises for friends.

A perfect way to begin your Grace journey — or for collectors who have been with Grace since the very beginning. The new Graces are shown below in past Historical costumes, and the dolls in the Gift Set clothing is also featured. So exciting!

🎬 GRACE UNVEILED: Passion, Possibility & Promise

VDC Video Event with Rachel & Christopher

Join us for a special showcase as Rachel and Christopher reveal three brand-new Grace dolls and their accompanying couture fashions.

Featured in this video:
• Passion Grace
• Possibility Grace
• Promise Grace
• Three new couture fashions, available at release

🕙 Release Time:
January 23rd at 10:00 AM MST in the Grace Boutique

This event viceo offers a closer look at each Grace doll’s styling, personality, and the beautiful fashions designed just for her. A must-watch for Grace collectors.

We look forward to sharing this exciting moment with the VDC community.

Hello.

It has come to my attention that January 2026 requires an announcement.
I dislike announcements. They interrupt my naps and encourage enthusiasm.
However, this one is unavoidable.

The Ellowyne Wilde Subscription Box for January 2026 will be revealed on Friday, January 16th at 10:00 AM MST in a video.

The outfit is called Blue Tea For Two.
It is vintage.
It is refined.
It comes from Gwen’s closet.
It was designed by Sybil Connolly (no relation — though I will allow the coincidence).

Now.
That is not the main issue.

The actual issue is the add-ons.

There will be an ALL NEW Ellowyne Wilde doll available at the time of the reveal.
Yes. Ellowyne herself.

Her name is The Wanderer.

(Previously referred to as The Traveler. This was incorrect. Travelers have itineraries. Wanderers do not. I regret the confusion, but not enough to apologize. The Traveler is coming soon.)

She has rooted auburn hair, worn long and softly waved, as if she has just returned from somewhere important and did not feel the need to explain where. She is dressed sensibly yet stylishly — boots suitable for cobblestones, layers chosen with intention, and an expression that suggests she packed carefully and left early.

She carries what appears to be a basket.
Do not assume it is decorative.
It may contain letters.
Or books.
Or opinions.

She is limited to 195 dolls.
Five of the original 200 were reserved for Robert Tonner’s archive, as some things are meant to be remembered, not sold.

She is the first of six in Robert Tonner’s Dark Academia series.
She knows the difference between traveling and wandering.
Now you do as well.

The reveal video will include an in-depth look at the doll, allowing you to properly assess her tailoring, posture, and general preparedness before pretending you are undecided.

Also — and this is important — 2026 marks the 20th anniversary of Ellowyne Wilde.
If there were ever a respectable moment to indulge your Ello habit, this would be it.
I see no ethical objections.

Following the reveal, at 11:00 AM MST, the following will be available in the Ellowyne Wilde Boutique:

• Ellowyne Wilde: The Wanderer doll for a special subscription launch day price of $215.00 (anyone can purchase this doll, you do not have to be in the subscription.)
• Two coordinating add-on dresses
• A custom-made umbrella (she does not require rain to justify it)

You may watch the reveal.
You may shop with composure.
Or you may insist you are “just appreciating the craftsmanship.”

I will know which it is.

Regards,
Sybil
Ellowyne Wilde Division

Settle in at the doll shop for a cozy, conversational catch-up with Rachel. This long-form chat feels just like spending time with a friend — perfect to put on while you sew, dress dolls, or simply keep company.

We talk about pregnancy and nearing the third trimester, the very real saga of losing a tooth over Christmas, preparing for a new baby, what’s been happening at the doll shop, an update on Derek’s pottery studio, and so much more. It’s honest, warm, a little funny, and very real — the kind of video you don’t have to “watch,” just enjoy having on.

Pour a cup of something warm and come hang out!

Join Rachel and Christopher in the doll shop for a joyful look back at Anne’s Subscription Box, Season One. In this special retrospective, we showcase every single outfit from the season and share the stories behind how each look came to life.

You’ll hear about the creative process, the many design iterations that didn’t make it into the box, and what it was like bringing an entire year of imaginative dress-up to collectors around the world. We talk candidly about what worked, what surprised us, and what Season One meant to us — and to Anne.

We also share where we’re headed next as we prepare for Season Two: Anne’s Dress-Up Trunk, a series inspired by childhood imagination, storytelling, and the joy of play.

This is a relaxed, cozy video — perfect to put on while you sew, style dolls, or simply enjoy some doll shop company. Thank you for being part of Anne’s journey.

FIRST RELEASE: Anne’s Dress-Up Trunk — Season Two

Monday, January 12th | 10:00 AM MST

Join us for the very first reveal of Anne’s Dress-Up Trunk Subscription Box – Season Two, kicking off an entire year of imagination, dress-up play, and childhood wonder.

In this special video event, Rachel, Christopher, and Mark Tinkey come together for a fun, behind-the-scenes look at the brand-new subscription boxes and the first adventure outfit of the season. This reveal sets the tone for a magical year ahead, filled with storytelling, creativity, and beautifully designed outfits for Anne Fitzpatrick.

Season Two celebrates the joy of dress-up and pretend, with upscale doll clothing designed by Mark Tinkey and enchanting artwork and crafts by Diana Vining — all thoughtfully created to spark imagination month after month.

After the video, a coordinating daywear dress and fun rainbow sneakers will be available as optional add-ons in the Anne Boutique, opening at 11:00 AM MST following the reveal.

This is where the adventure begins. Don’t miss it!