Explore every episode of the podcast The Doll Podcast

The story of fashion and dolls has been linked throughout time as dolls have
long been associated with social aspiration and style.   Host Louisa Maxwell is joined by Barbie expert Bradley Justice Yarbrough and Sara Woodbury curator of art at the Barry Art Museum to discuss the current shows exploring the relationship of dolls and fashion through the centuries.

 Two stunning exhibitions at the BarryArt Museum run in tandem :“Carved Couture “ offer's an intimate look at the world of the 18th century fashion doll - while the second exhibition “ Out of the Box: A Barbie Doll Retrospective considers the evolution of this iconic fashion doll and the role of the innovative teams that created the fashion doll that has endured for over 66 years.

The Barry Art Museum brings this rich history alive through not just displaying historical dolls but creating immersive experiences, including life-sized recreations of Barbie's iconic Dream Houses that visitors can explore. Join us for a lively discussion on dolls and fashion and the enduring historic legacy of the fashion doll.

When a doll collection comes up for auction, we glimpse not just beautiful objects, but a collector's passion, vision, and journey. The upcoming Masterpiece sale at Ladenburger Spielzugauktion in  Ladenburg Germany on April 4-5, 2025 presents just such an opportunity with German collector Karin Schmelcher's extraordinary collection of rare French and German dolls.

Join host Louisa Maxwell as we explore the highlights of this remarkable collection with Pia Fast Seidel of Ladenburger Auction House and distinguished collector Marco Bröning, Karin Schmelcher’s longtime friend. They guide us through exceptional pieces including two rare Bru Jeune ballerina dolls with wooden bodies that can strike an elegant pose.  An Andrè Thuillier (AT) doll with mesmerising blue eyes that "speak to your heart," and the historically significant Emile Jumeau  Bébé awarded the prestigious Medal d'Or at the 1878 World Exhibition in Paris.

What distinguishes Schmelcher's collection is her unwavering commitment to originality—every doll retains its complete original costume and accessories. Her expertise led her to co-author definitive books on Bru and Heubach dolls, making her both a collector and historian. 

Karin Schmelcher’s collection is truly a Masterpiece weaving a rich tale of the art of doll making, the role of the collector and the doll historian. Join us for this fascinating conversation about passion, provenance, and the enduring legacy of one collector's vision. 

From astronaut to presidential candidate, Barbie's  250-plus professions mirror the evolving landscape of women's roles in society. 

Barbie doll has become a cultural icon over her 65 years, reflecting the evolution of women's roles and careers. Through her myriad professions, Barbie inspires children to dream big and showcases the importance of representation, creativity, and empowerment in society.

Join Barbie doll expert Bradley Justice Yarbrough and host Louisa Maxwell as they chart Barbie’s 65 years as a pop culture icon. 

Did you know paper dolls were the original fashion influencers? 
Samy Odin author, lecturer and former Director of the the Musée de la Poupée-Paris joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss the historic role of paper dolls.  Samy takes us through the evolution paper dolls from  their beginnings as a playful exploration of identity in the 17th century, to promoting fashion and the arts. These delicate creations are now valued collectables and a record of fashion and play through the centuries.

Welcome to the enchanting world of vintage teddy bear collecting, a  fascinating realm where childhood nostalgia meets the art of high-stakes auctions.  British teddy expert Daniel Agnew,  has worked with Christie's South Kensington, the London Toy Auction, and now with SAS, Special Auction Services in the United Kingdom.  Daniel shares his wealth of knowledge and passion for these timeless companions and the  factors that contribute to the high market value of certain bears.  
Listeners are treated to an inside look at the upcoming December 3, 2024, auction at  Special Auction Services. This highly anticipated event promises to be a highlight for vintage bear lovers worldwide, with the potential to break world records. Daniel Agnew shares the excitement of preparing for this auction and the anticipation of connecting collectors with their cherished finds.

Robert Tonner’s fashion doll Lacie Churchill is a movie studio executive who is always  red carpet ready. When she is not green lighting Oscar worthy projects at Hollywood’s Momax studios Lacie is outperforming fellow film moguls in the boardroom. 

American Sculptor, fashion designer and entrepreneur Robert Tonner has created many exciting dolls during his over 30 year career. Robert launched The Tonner Doll Company in 1991, which became famous for producing fashion dolls, pop culture figures, and collectibles that combined exquisite craftsmanship with artistic design.

British toy designer Rachel Godfroy joins host Louisa Maxwell to celebrate over sixty years of  fashion doll Sindy. 

Sindy was launched in 1963 by Pedigree toys at a time when British fashion and music were sweeping the world. The Beatle’s topped the charts with “She Loves You” and Mary Quant’s mini skirts set off a youth quake in fashion. Sindy was a doll created for the British market and she reflected the culture and fashion of a very exciting time. 

Louisa and Rachel chart the course of fashion doll Sindy throughout her six decades  and her enduring legacy as a time capsule of popular culture and fashion.

Rachel Godfroy, who has worked in the Toy industry for twenty years as a designer, illustrator, and brand developer and was the designer for Sindy’s relaunch in 2020. 

Dr. Sarah Woodbury, Curator of Art at the Barry Art Museum and host Louisa Maxwell delve into the life and legacy of Martha Jenks Chase. Dr. Woodbury takes you through the "Progressive Kindness" exhibition at the Barry Art Museum, highlighting how Martha's progressive values and medical background fuelled her creations. Uncover the profound impact of Martha's work on both nursing education and children's intellectual growth, as we explore the intersection of art, medicine, and social reform.

The current exhibition at the Barry Art Museum in Norfolk Virginia, USA, discusses the work of Martha Jenks Chase and reveals how one woman’s desire to give her children a meaningful plaything became a movement for change and a company that would create dolls for almost 100 years.

Barry Museum guest curator Brett Day Windham  joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss  the exhibition which explores  Martha Chase’s work and how she used dolls as tools for social change and innovation.   Brett  is a multidisciplinary artist whose work uses found objects to create sculptures and images. she has exhibited throughout the United States and created iconic art installations for the prestigious New York Department Store Bergdorf Goodman.

Stuart Holbrook president of Theriault’s Auction House joins The Doll Podcast host Louisa Maxwell to  discuss  rare dolls by Austrian artist Lilli Baitz from the collection of Rosalie Whyel.  Rosalie Whyel founded of the award winning Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art in Seattle Washington . Stuart tells the story of this major collection of Lilli Baitz dolls and how Rosalie Whyel preserved these dolls for future generations to enjoy.

Austrian artist Lilli Baitz trained in art schools in Florence, Munich and Vienna. She established her studio in Berlin with her husband Roman in 1909. Lilli Baitz created beautifully costumed and sculpted dolls and figures dressed in costumes depicting traditional Austrian dress. She also sculpted languid boudoir dolls and capturing the likeness of stage and screen stars like Mary Pickford, Ellen Terry and Lilly Langtree. 
 
 Lilli and Roman’s company  was renowned for their dolls and elaborate Christmas landscapes and magical fairy tale scenes. They soon attracted the attention of major department stores throughout Europe and the USA. They worked on projects for Metro Goldwyn-Mayer studios producing figures of stars such as Laurel and Hardy and Mary Pickford for film promotions in Europe.

Stuart Holbrook, president of Theriault’s auction house, joins  host Louisa Maxwell to  discuss  the legacy of Rosalie Whyel,  the founder of 'The Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art' in Seattle Washington. 
 
 Rosalie Whyel wanted dolls to teach and inspire new generations and she shared that dream with thousand of visitors for 25 years. Stuart Holbrook knew Rosalie very well and tells the story of how she created a collection to inspire the world. 

Sadly we lost Rosalie this year and her friend Stuart Holbrook was entrusted to appraise and auction the collection of a lifetime. Stuart shares the stories of Rosalie and the dolls that became a legendary  collection.

Madame Alexander has been making dolls for over 100 years - the key to her success was innovation and quality.  

Curator  Sara Woodbury joins host Louisa Maxwell for Part  2 of the podcast  discussing the The Barry Art Museum's exhibition Fashioning Innovation Madame Alexander at 100  celebrating the centenary of The Madame Alexander Doll company and its founder Beatrice Alexander. 
In 1955 Beatrice Alexander introduced her fashion doll 'Cissy'.   Her character was based on the modern American debutante and she had a couture inspired wardrobe.
Madame Alexander  was recognised with an award from  the ‘New York Fashion Academy”  for her contribution to fashion. She drew inspiration from New York designers and Cissy brought these couture inspirations to life.

In Part two Sara and Louisa discuss Madame Alexander's fashion dolls and also compare Cissy to another 50's fashion icon Barbie Doll. 

The  Madame Alexander  doll company  has been making dolls for over 100 years - and the key to their success is innovation and quality. 

Museum Curator Sara Woodbury joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss  a new exhibition at The Barry Art Museum entitled  Fashioning Innovation, Madame Alexander at 100 . The exhibition celebrates the centenary of The Madame Alexander  doll company and its founder Beatrice Alexander. 

The Barry Art Museum, is the cultural hub of the Old Dominion University, located in Virginia USA . The museum displays fine art in all its forms: painting, sculpture, glass and a superb collection showcasing the art of doll making. Sara is a scholar and curator, dedicated to expanding how museums define art and provide access to it, we are delighted that she is bringing her unique perspective on dolls as guest curator at The Barry Art Museum.

Madame Alexander had a dream to educate through dolls and 100 years later, Madame’s legacy is still inspiring new generations of children.   Designer and author Bruce A. de Armond joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss the life and work of Beatrice Alexander. 
 
 Madame was born Bertha (Beatrice) Alexander, in New York’s lower East side where her father had a doll shop and hospital. Beatrice trained and worked as a bookkeeper but the advent of World War One and a shortage of the supply of dolls from Europe inspired Beatrice and sisters to create their own cloth dolls. The success of the cloth dolls persuaded Beatrice to launch the Alexander Doll company in 1923 and began her legendary collaboration with toy store FAO Schwarz in New York. 

Beatrice styled herself as “Madame “ Alexander capitalising on her European roots to give an aura of glamour to the brand. Madame Alexander had vision as a designer and as a business person. She negotiated a variety of licensed deals to make dolls in the likenesses of Hollywood stars: Jane Withers, Judy Garland, Sonja Henie, Carmen Miranda and Scarlett O’Hara. 

She launched the chic fashion doll Cissy who gained world wide recognition as the face of British beauty brand Yardley. Now in 2023, a century later, Madame Alexander’s dolls are still celebrated and collected as they appeal, not only to doll collectors but to lovers of film and pop culture. 

Bruce A. de Armond is an interior designer  with an international portfolio creating signature styes for hotels, casinos and department stores. Bruce combines his interests in art, dolls and fashion by working with museum collections, auction houses, and contributing to books on vintage dolls. Bruce A. deArmond’s blog dolledition.com explores the ever evolving story of dolls and fashion. 

Doll Podcast host Louisa Maxwell charts the journey of Barbie from pop culture icon to movie star.

Barbie is the girl that has it all: a hit movie, a dream house and then there is Ken  - Barbie’s favourite accessory. In her over 60 years she has been immortalised by Andy Warhol  and dressed by a rota of top fashion designers including: Oscar de la Renta, Bob Mackie, Yves Saint Laurent, Escada, Ralph Lauren, Vera Wang, Vivienne Westwood, Givenchy and too many more to mention in just one podcast.   Now she has made box office history with a record breaking movie. So  what's next for Barbie doll, an Oscar?  But where did the story start and how did a simple doll, for children to dress and undress, become a pop culture icon?

The Doll Podcast is back in November 2023 for a new season.  Fashion dolls have been in the news this year as Barbie is not only queen of the doll aisle but a Hollywood star too. Bradley Justice Yarbrough joins host Louisa Maxwell to review the effect that 'Barbie, the Movie' has had on doll collectors and collecting.
 
 Madame Alexander is celebrating 100 years of doll making and author and designer Bruce DeArmond reveals the story of Beatrice Alexander and her dolls.
 
 'The Barry Art Museum' in Norfolk Virginia is hosting an exhibition ‘Fashioning Innovation: Madame Alexander at 100'. 'Barry Museum' Curator Sara Woodbury reveals the story of Madame's fashion dolls and debates the effect Madame’s fashion doll Cissy the had on Mattel's Barbie doll.
 
British fashion doll Sindy is 60 this year and toy designer Rachel Godfroy shares her childhood love of Sindy and her work designer for Sindy.
 
 Please subscribe to The Doll Podcast wherever you find your podcasts.
 

Stuart Holbrook president of Theriault’s auction house joins host Louisa Maxwell to  celebrate the legacy of Rosalie Whyel,  founder of The Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art in Seattle Washington.

Rosalie Whyel wanted dolls to teach and inspire new generations and she shared that dream with thousand of visitors for 25 years. Stuart Holbrook knew Rosalie very well and tells the story of how she created a collection to inspire the world. Sadly we lost Rosalie this year and Stuart discusses Rosalie’s legacy and her wishes for the future of her collection.

The Barry Art Museum at Old Dominion University in Virginia USA,  features three major collections: Fine Art Paintings, Glass, Historic Dolls and Automata.  The Barry Museum’s doll collection spans three centuries of fashion and culture, the dolls are exhibited alongside great works of art challenging the viewer to see the doll in terms of art and the society that created them. 

The Barry Art  Museum's guest Curator Sara Woodbury joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss the  Barry’s latest exhibition exploring the story of the French Bébé dolls. Made in the likeness of idealised children with finely sculpted bisque heads and composition or leather, bodies, these dolls were dressed in the finest French fashions.     French doll makers: Jumeau, Bru, Steiner, André Thuillier and Huret competed to create the most luxurious and innovative Bébés.  Sara Woodbury gives us a guided tour through the exhibition and insight into what these dolls reveal about the society and culture of the late nineteenth century.

World Doll Day is June 10, 2023 this year and  in an episode from our archive we share the history of World Doll Day and how you can celebrate this year.

Michael Canadas of the Grovian Doll Museum joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss the origins of World Doll Day and how it has grown into a worldwide celebration of dolls

This year we will celebrate World Doll Day on June 11, 2022. World Doll Day is not just for doll enthusiasts but a day for everyone to give or share the special joy a doll can bring.

World Doll Day was established in 1986 by Mildred Seeley the renowned doll expert, author and collector. Just as she shared her love of dolls through her books Mildred wanted to establish a day to celebrate the importance of dolls as playthings and the importance of play in society at large. 

www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/world-doll-day-1

Valerie Fogel joins host Louisa Maxwell to explore the history of  Maison Huret,  famous for creating luxury French fashion dolls with the finest fashions and accessories. In 1844 Mademoiselle Calixté Huret was inspired to create a doll with an idealised view of a young lady with an elaborate lifestyle. Calixté worked with her sister Leopoldine creating a family business that celebrated innovation, in the art of the doll.

 Valerie Fogel has loved dolls since her father brought them home from every port when she was a small child.  As her collection and knowledge grew, so has her fascination for historic dolls from Europe. Valerie has lectured at The United Federation of Doll Clubs and received awards from them for her work to  advance the the goals of preservation, education and study of dolls. Valerie  contributes‘ The UFDC’s publication Doll News’, and Antique Doll Collector  Magazine. She is also recognised by the National Art and Antique Dealers Association and is the owner of Beautiful Bébés Antique Dolls.

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

On our last episode Bradley Justice Yarbrough shared the story of Barbie and her career selling the dream lifestyle on film and TV. 

This time in an episode from our archive Bradley relates the story of the team of talented artists, fashion designers and engineers it took to bring Ruth Handler’s vision of Barbie doll into being.

In the 1950’s toymaker Ruth Handler watched her daughter playing with paper dolls and was inspired to create a fashion doll that a child could hold in their hand.  Mattel assembled a design team of artists,  engineers and fashion designers to create Barbie  - and the rest is history.
 
Author and  fashion doll expert  Bradley Justice Yarbrough has made a study of Barbie doll and was awarded the Coleman Scholarship for the research and study of the Designers of the Barbie Doll. He writes for  Doll News and Antique Doll Collector Magazine and also has the distinction of being voted the title of ‘Barbie’s Best Friend’ at Barbiecon. Today he tells the inside story behind the innovative designers that brought Ruth Handlers’s vision to life.

Bradley Justice Yarbrough author and expert on all things Barbie doll joins host Louisa Maxwell to explore how Barbie captivated generations of children through the medium of television advertising.

Bradley has amassed an impressive archive of first hand interviews and accounts of the story behind the creation of this pop culture legend. He traces the trends Barbie has followed in her over sixty years and how she reflects our fashion and culture.  Bradley gives us an insight into the creative people that made Barbie a household name.

Award winning artist and illustrator Mel Odom joins host Louisa Maxwell on The Doll Podcast.

Mel Odom’s work  has graced magazine covers for: Time, Omni, The New York Times , Rolling Stone, Blue Boy and Play Boy. He has created artwork for numerous best selling books and album  covers for CBS records. 

Mel’s art deco influenced portraits are reminiscent of dramatically lit Hollywood film stills, his love of film and beauty inspired him to make a doll, Gene Marshall, a fashion doll and star of stage and screen. 

In our interview Mel reveals the films and stars that gave him inspiration for Gene and her career. He also shares memories of his best friend and real life MGM Movie Star, Marsha Hunt and the doll he made in her likeness to honour her.

It was a drawing of a beautiful face that inspired Mel Odom to create Gene Marshall, a movie star of  Hollywood’s golden age of the 1940’s and 50s’. When she was launched in 1995, the press heralded  Gene with the headline:  “A star is born and she’s a doll!” 
At fifteen and a half inches tall Gene towered over the competition and won the hearts of millions of fans.
Episode Webpage:

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/gene-marshall-amp-mel-odom-films-and-stars-of-hollywoods-golden-age

Tamara Casey is the creative force behind Designs by Jude a design house offering over nine hundred sewing patterns for dolls.  Tamara joins fellow sewing enthusiast Louisa Maxwell to share her journey as a designer.  Sewing new outfits  is one of the most creative parts of doll collecting and Tamara’s pattern collection offers designs for over sixty types of dolls. Her Youtube channel has over 4,000 subscribers where she gives step by step tutorials to allow doll lovers to release their inner couturier.
https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/tamara-casey-designing-for-dolls

Stuart Holbrook president of Theriault’s auction house joins host Louisa Maxwell in Vienna, Austria, to discuss his travels in 2022 searching for unique and precious dolls.

In part two Stuart and Louisa discuss how the definition of a doll is changing and the art of the Japanese doll. They discuss how the pandemic has effected  auctions  and that even more people are collecting dolls than before. 

If you missed part 1 you can find it on Apple Podcasts or our website www.dollpodcast.com or on Apple Podcasts or wherever you find you podcasts.

Stuart Holbrook president of Theriault’s auction house joins host Louisa Maxwell in Vienna, Austria, to discuss his travels in 2022 searching for unique and precious dolls.

In Australia Stuart met collectors of antique dolls, that originally voyaged there in the 19th century, and jet setting Barbie rarities. Determined Australian collectors have traveled far and wide to get their dolls and each doll has a fascinating story and journey.

The stories of unique objects is the subject of Stuart’s new book “Never ending Stories”- the history and legacy of  iconic objects. He explains how “dolls are not just playthings but art that evokes fashion and the three  dimensional human form.” Dolls capture the timeline of our changing attitudes to beauty and fashion. Each doll has a story of it’s own and the story of the people who have cherished it. 

Part one of our podcast ends with the Journey to Australia - We continue in our next episode on to Japan and their tradition of doll making and talk about how auctions are changing and transforming the way we buy dolls and much more on The Doll Podcast.

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/every-doll-tells-a-story-with-stuart-holbrook-part-1

Australian artist, Jozef Szekeres joins host Louisa Maxwell on The Doll Podcast.

As a senior animator at Walt Disney, Jozef Szekeres brought a cast of imaginary characters to life. He is also the author of best selling comic books and graphic novels. 

Inspired by his love of  sculpture and fashion and he created his fashion doll line GlamourOZ Dolls and received the accolade of  American DOLLS Awards of Excellence Industry’s Choice winner in 2020.

Jonathan Greene, who lectures on Käthe Kruse dolls, and hosts the Käthe Kruse Gathering joins host Louisa Maxwell.
Käthe Kruse has been a  name synonymous with dolls for over 100 years. Her journey as a doll artist started in 1905 when her daughter wished for a cuddly doll, so Käthe created a doll with the weight and softness of a baby.  Jonathan Greene tells us the story of this talented artist and entrepreneur who created an international brand of handcrafted dolls.
https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/kthe-kruse

Michael Canadas of the Grovian Doll Museum joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss the origins of World Doll Day and how it has grown into a worldwide celebration of dolls

This year we will celebrate World Doll Day on June 11, 2022. World Doll Day is not just for doll enthusiasts but a day for everyone to give or share the special joy a doll can bring.

World Doll Day was established in 1986 by Mildred Seeley the renowned doll expert, author and collector. Just as she shared her love of dolls through her books Mildred wanted to establish a day to celebrate the importance of dolls as playthings and the importance of play in society at large. 

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/world-doll-day

Samy Odin lecturer and author of numerous books on dolls and director of the Musée de la Poupée Paris for 25 years, joins host Louisa Maxwell to share the story of  the magazine La Poupée Modèle.

The French children’s magazine La Poupée Modèle was launched in 1863 by Parisienne business woman Madame Lavallee-Peronne.  Published monthly each issue included: stories, plays, recipes, puzzles and supplements of paper dolls and accessories. Dolls were a major part of the magazines appeal, each issue had patterns for doll clothing so readers could sew a trousseau for their doll. 

The magazine charts the golden age of 19th century French dolls when the celebrated Lily dolls and the doll boutiques of Paris like “ La Poupée de Nuremberg  sold every conceivable luxury a doll's Mama could desire: clothes, shoes, accessories, furniture and more. Each issue of La Poupée Modèle is a treasure trove of childhood history, a special moment in a child’s life full of magic and imagination. 
 

Adam and podcast host Louisa Maxwell share their mutual admiration for the band and the dolls that any celebrity doll collector will really, really want.

Adam Weatherly  has the world’s largest collections of Spice Girl dolls. It’s over 25 years since the band successfully stormed the charts and Adam is hoping to get the dolls, who are the best selling celebrity dolls in history,  into the Toy Hall of Fame.

The Spice girls bounded on to the music scene with their hit “Wannabe” and their catch phrase ZigaZigAhhhh! They took over TV and music channels, and had multiple worldwide number one singles as well as a movie. 

The Spice girls had their likeness cast in a series of dolls that charted their costume and career history. Adam has over 500 dolls in his collection and has assembled an archive of costumes and prototypes documenting the band. Adam has interviewed many of the artists and designers that contributed to the dolls and hopes to produce and book or documentary about them.

http://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/the-spice-girls-celebrity-dolls-you-really-really-want

A little doll called   Bleuette enchanted generations of  French children for the first half of the twentieth century.  She was launched in 1905 by a children’s magazine called ‘La Semaine de Suzette' where she became a huge success with young readers who dressed her and sewed for her.  More than 1,000 clothing patterns were published for her making Bleuette one of the most fashionable dolls in history. 

Samy Odin  joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss the history of Bleuette and 'La Semaine de Suzette'.  Samy Odin is a lecturer and author of numerous books on dolls and was the director of the Musée de la Poupée Paris for 25 years.  Now, Samy shares his expertise  and passion for Antique dolls through Chérubins in Paris.

www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/bluette-and-la-semaine-de-suzette

In the 1950’s toymaker Ruth Handler watched her daughter playing with paper dolls and was inspired to create a fashion doll that a child could hold in their hand.  Mattel assembled a design team of artists,  engineers and fashion designers to create Barbie  - and the rest is history.

Our guest is author and  fashion doll expert  Bradley Justice Yarbrough. Bradley has made a study of Barbie doll and was awarded the Coleman Scholarship for the research and study of the Designers of the Barbie Doll. He writes for  Doll News and Antique Doll Collector Magazine and also has the distinction of being voted the title of ‘Barbie’s Best Friend’ at Barbiecon. Today he tells the inside story behind the innovative designers that brought Ruth Handlers’s vision to life.

Learn more: https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts/designing-barbie

Designer and sculptor,  Robert Tonner, has created many memorable dolls that capture moments of fashion and pop culture . This years hottest fashion doll drop is sure to be Ellowyne Wilde! She's the Fashion doll who sets the trend - combining different pieces to create her own individual look.  Robert joins Host Louisa Maxwell to  share the inspiration behind this new collection and reveals what is in store for Ellowyne Wilde  in 2022.


https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Photographer, author and interior designer  Bruce A. deArmond joins host Louisa Maxwell to  explore the ever evolving love affair between dolls and fashion.

Bruce is an an interior designer who creates signature styes for an international portfolio of hotels, casinos and department stores. He also is passionate about fashion and the role dolls play as models, playthings  and historic artefacts.  Bruce’s work in design and retail have given him a unique perspective on the contribution of  dolls to fashion as models or reflections of current trends.

Throughout history, dolls have told the story of fashion. As early as the fourteenth century the courts of Europe showcased the latest fashion trends using dolls called Pandoras.  In the nineteenth century elaborate fashion dolls taught girls about fashion and society.  After the ravages of World War Two, Paris couturiers, used dolls in the fashion exhibition Théâtre de la Mode, spreading the word that Paris Haute Couture was back in business. Now, during the pandemic dolls have once more taken to the catwalk for Dior and Moschino with miniature, detailed versions of their couture collections.

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Robert Tonner has always been at the cutting edge of fashion so it’s no surprise that his latest dolls, the Model Behaviour fashion dolls, are inspired by the latest trend, digital influencers.

With millions of followers virtual influencers like Miquela, Noonoouri  and Shudu  are changing our perception of beauty and gender. 

With his new dolls Robert creates an intricate story of Moire, a digital model and avatar of style, who  in real life is Olivia Chase.  Robert weaves an intriguing tale between the fantasy that is Moire and the reality of Olivia

Toy designer Rachel Godfroy joins Host Louisa Maxwell  to tell us about Sindy’s new look.

Sindy, the British fashion doll that generations of children and adults “love to dress”, is back!  Sindy was originally launched by Pedigree Toys during the swinging 1960's.  A teenager with a mod wardrobe, straight out of London’s ultra fashionable Carnaby street.  Sindy has returned and is again embracing the latest trends as a stylist, fashion blogger and influencer, she also enjoys dancing, riding and caring for pets too.

In 2020 British company Kid Kreations, launched a range of six Sindy Dolls for Collectors. The dolls are based on 1980’s Sindy with the original Pedigree face sculpt and a new posable body. Each doll wears a fashion reminiscent of  Vintage Sindy looks like - Weekenders .  The dolls are  limited to editions of 1,963, the year Sindy was launched.

Now  in 2021 Sindy has returned to the British High Street with a new range of dolls suitable for Sindy collectors of all ages. The Sindy Play Range includes six dolls each with their own themed play set; a fashion boutique, a bakery, a hair salon, a pet parlour, a ballet studio and a riding stable.  Each doll comes in a box that can be transformed, with some paper crafting, into a set for the doll we still love to dress and collect.
https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Stuart Holbrook, President of Theriault’s Auctions, makes a welcome return to Vienna Austria for Part Two of our Fall 2021 podcast.

A hot topic this year has been the discussion of the doll not just as a historic object but as a piece of art in its own right.  Stuart Holbrook and host Louisa Maxwell discuss landmark collections with unique pieces of such quality that they cross the line from antique to fine art.  Stuart explores the Barry Art Museum  with it's world class collection of art at Old Dominion University in Norfolk Virginia, in the USA. The museum strives to advance the understanding of art in many of its’ diverse forms including the Doll. 

Stuart also predicts that the work of today's doll artists will soon be the collectors pieces of tomorrow.

Stuart  remembers Hollywood star and doll collectorJane Withers. Stuart shares his memories of Jane Withers and tells some insider tales about her movies and friendship with Shirley Temple.  All this and more on The Doll Podcast.
https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Stuart Holbrook, president of Theriault’s Auction house, has made a welcome return to Vienna, Austria.  A year ago Stuart joined Host Louisa Maxwell for the first Doll Podcast and here they are, one year on, enjoying coffee and delicious Viennese cake while talking about one of their favourite topics, dolls. 

Stuart has a years worth of adventures to cover, so this episode comes in two parts: Part One Thursday October 14th and Part Two out a week later so be sure to subscribe at Apple Podcasts, I heart Radio or where ever you find you podcasts to get the whole story.

Stuart is well known for travelling the world in pursuit of rare antique dolls and childhood playthings. During 2020 Covid clipped his wings but, as soon as it was safe, he took to the road in the USA to meet doll lovers and unearth treasures.

In Part One of our conversation - Stuart fills us in on collector trends and how the demand for dolls rose to new highs in 2020. Covid kept collectors at home but, in these uncertain times, we are reassured by the fact that collectors around the world can meet a through online events, auctions, social media and of course - The Doll Podcast - to share our love of dolls, their place in history and of course our hearts. 

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Billye Harris is an appraiser for popular TV series The Antique’s Roadshow on PBS . Billye has had a rich and varied career in the world of dolls and has sought to educate and entertain about the study of dolls and their place in art, craft and social history. 

Billye joins The Doll Podcast’s Host Louisa Maxwell to discuss her career in antiques and some of her favourite dolls, she also shares her admiration for the United Federation of Doll Clubs  - or UFDC for short. The UFDC is an international organisation that promotes research, education, conservation and appreciation of dolls. Billye is an active member of the UFDC serving  on the Collection Oversight Committee  at their renowned doll museum in Kansas City. Her contribution to dolls was recognised when Billye Harris was awarded the  U.F.D.C.’s Ralph Griffith Award of Excellence for her work promoting dolls.https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Doll Museums are becoming more of a rarity but the Grovian Doll Museum  has taken an innovative stance to make their collection a success.  Museum director's Michael Canadas and David Robinson  curate rare dolls, doll's fashions, furnishings and accessories. They also organise lectures and workshops in the museum and online making their collection accessible to all. 

The museum is part of the Carmel Doll Shop established by Michael and David in 1989, in Carmel, California. They attract collectors from around the world who seek fine dolls, dollhouses and toys. 

Michael and David also share their expertise through presentations for the United Federation of Doll Clubs at events and conventions. The Grovian Doll Museum is an opportunity for them to to help educate and entertain the doll collecting public and raise funds various charitable organisations.

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Author Brook Ashley joins host Louisa Maxwell  to discuss her book,  Dare Wright and The Lonely Doll.

Dare Wright photographed and wrote the best selling series of The Lonely Doll Books. They tell the story of Edith, a doll that wants to find friends and when two bears enter her life, love and acceptance come too. Dare’s haunting and beautiful black and white images not only convey Edith’s adventures but also the moments of loneliness refecting the fears and isolation many of us face in childhood. Perhaps it is this honesty  that has made the books so enduring.

Dare Wright’s goddaughter, actor and writer Brook Ashley featured in several of Dare’s books and has now written a biography of Dare Wright.  Her book is a unique and intimate portrait with more than four hundred of Dare’s own photographs, self portraits, family snaps and stills from her books. The book reveals the story behind the enigmatic images that have cast a spell over generations of children and adults.

To Learn more about Dare Wright: https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

Since their launch in 1991 Robert Tonner’s dolls have captured the imagination of collectors worldwide. His dolls have won numerous and have the distinction of being exhibited in the Museum of Decorative Arts at the Louvre in Paris.

Robert Tonner is about to launch a new edition of a firm favourite, Ellowyne Wilde with an all new sculpt and  range of costumes. Ellowyne will be launched in March 2021 and we can’t wait to hear all the exciting details.    

Robert Tonner creates magical worlds with his dolls and tells stories of haute couture, literature, action and adventure. Not only has he created chic fashion dolls but realised meticulous sculpts of Hollywood film heroes: Scarlett O’Hara, Harry Potter, Superman, Spiderman, Laura Croft and many more iconic characters. 

He brings a fresh perspective to doll making breaking down barriers with the first transgender doll  Jazz Jennings. He celebrates style at any age with his doll of super model Carmen Dell'Orefice, still strutting the catwalks in her 80’s. He created  Emme the first plus size fashion doll reflecting contemporary discussions about our perception of beauty and whether size matters?

To Robert Tonner doll making is just like fashion design - he recognises the need for dolls to be setting trends rathe than following them.

Dolls & Treasures with Samy Odin  & host Louisa Maxwell

Samy Odin served as the director of the Musée de la Poupée-Paris for twenty five years, during that time he was fortunate enough to curate exhibitions with  some of the world’s most beautiful and precious dolls .

 Samy is an author of numerous books on dolls and shares his expertise lecturing at conventions and exhibitions. He also host’s doll tours of Europe, with exclusive access to  collections not normally available to the public. Now with his new venture Chérubins Samy not only explores the world of dolls but of artefacts representing the lives of children through history. 

 Samy joins host Louisa Maxwell on The Doll Podcast from Paris to discuss the beautiful and chic French Fashion dolls and tell us about his life and work.

Doll artists, experts and influencer's share memories of precious Christmas, toys and dolls. Guests: Mel Odom, Rachel Hoffman, Samy Odin, Rebekah Kaufman, Suresh and Joshua David McKenney join host Louisa Maxwell.
https://www.dollpodcast.com/episodes

Rachel Hoffman is  a visionary in the doll world combining her degree in communications with doll expertise to launch the world’s first virtual doll convention.

She has built on the legacy left to her by her mother Diane Hoffman who 45 years ago founded of Turn of the Century Antiques in Denver Colorado. Today, Rachel has taken over the business   carrying on the family tradition  with a team of dedicated staff.  

Rachel is now about to launch her Christmas 2020 convention - A Christmas Pageant.  In her 
interview with host Louisa Maxwell, Rachel  reveals what inspired her to create this online celebration of dolls and collectors, her role as an influencer and how sharing glimpses of her life on and off camera has made her a social media sensation.

https://www.dollpodcast.com/podcasts

When you hear the name Steiff you think of Teddy Bears but Steiff has a long history of doll making.  Steiff expert Rebekah Kaufman joins host Louisa Maxwell to discuss Steiff’s dolls, their history and how to collect and identify them.

Steiff introduced a range of dolls called Characterpuppe in 1908 at Leipzig Toy Fair the press heralded these dolls as: “ A welcome change from the sweet and boring dolls with fragile heads” , In other words Steiff's doll’s were a “welcome change” from bisque head dolls of idealised children in fussy frills and formal clothing. Steiff’s new felt character dolls appealed to both boys and girls and were perfect for play and for cuddles . 

Steiff’s  founder Margarete’s Steiff’s motto was, “for children, only the best is good enough!"  her dolls delighted children with their bright costumes and character driven stories of farmers and their wives and animals, soldiers and sailors with authentic uniforms policemen, and characters from children’s literature.

Steiff expert  Rebekah Kaufman also known as Steiff Gal  is well know for her blog Steiff Life.  Rebekah has worked with Steiff in the United States. She has identified and valued vintage Steiff treasures for Morphy Auctions, James D. Julia, WorthPoint, Auctionata, and F.A.O. Schwarz, and  has consulted for Christies and Teddy Dorado .

Rebekah lectures internationally and has shared her expertise and passion for all things Steiff through features in: The Boston Globe, The New York Times, Bloomberg, Doll News, Town and Country, The Huffington Post, and television programs : Inside Edition and Pawn Stars. 

To find out more : www.thedollpodcast.com

Suresh Seneviratne  turned his passion for fashion and design for  Barbie - into a YouTube channel with over one and half million views.  Suresh’s interviews with leading doll designers  and witty and honest reviews of fashion dolls keep collectors tuning in . 

His interviews with doll designers and makers give insight into the process and inspiration behind some our favourite dolls. 

The tables are turned as Suresh is  interviewed by host Louisa Maxwell and shares his insight on fashion dolls and how he built his channel from family and friends to an audience of millions.
 For more details please go to the episode webpage:

The Art of the Doll
with guest Joshua David McKenney, Creator of the Pidgin Doll and host Louisa Maxwell.

Joshua David McKenney is an artist, sculptor and doll maker. His doll is called Pidgin - her name is inspired by the language that grows out of diverse ways of communicating and Pidgin doll is fluent in  the language of style.

Since her debut in 2013, Pidgin has attracted a large and devoted following as a style icon and muse. With almost 100, 000 followers on social media Pidgin Doll speaks the international language of beauty and style. Joshua declares that he is “ very committed to the idea of dolls as art. Most people think of dolls only as toys. But a doll can be so much more—an elevated object full of meaning, power, and beauty.”

Joshua is changing the perception of the fashion doll, she is not just a doll to dress and undress but a muse that inspires her followers on social media to imitate her hair, makeup costume and style. Pidgin does not follow trends she sets them and where she goes fashion follows.

To see images from the podcast and find out more details about Pidgin :https://www.dollpodcast.com/blog-1

This week our guest is Award winning artist and illustrator Mel Odom whose images have graced Time Magazine, Viva, Blueboy, Omni, The New York Times, Playboy, Candy, CBS Records and Rolling Stone.

It was a drawing of a beautiful face that inspired Mel to create a work in three dimensions, a doll and her name is Gene Marshall, and since her launch in 1995 and she has changed the face of fashion doll Collecting.

Gene’s debut at Toy Fair New York in 1995 was a sensation . Her size, fifteen and a half inches, her back story as an actress during Hollywood’s golden age and her glamorous wardrobe made her the most important fashion doll since Barbie Doll.

During her career she acquired a handsome leading man, a host of friends and an arch rival Hollywood diva Madra Lord. Gene even had her own celebrity biography Gene Marshall Girl Star.   

In our interview Mel shares the story of Gene, his love of black and white movies and the vintage fashions that influenced Gene’s story. We also discuss his many other projects in art,  illustration and designer fashion.
For more details, photographs and links please go to :
https://www.dollpodcast.com/blog-1