Once again I had the pleasure of visiting the Madame Alexander Doll showroom in New York City. This time they have moved from their location in Harlem to Mid-Town Manhattan after being acquired by Kahn Lucas, one of the oldest children’s wear companies in the world. It definitely had a different feeling than the Harlem site which was rich in history, but history was found here too. Madame Alexander actually had an office in this exact building once upon a time. A fact that came out after the acquisition. It’s like it was meant to be.
The first collaboration between Lucas Kahn and Madame Alexander is the Dollie & Me collection. These are not only quality Madame Alexander Dolls, but also include a clothing line in children’s wear to match the dolls. I was able to talk to Cythina the designer behind the Dollie & Me Collection. She was so enthusiastic about her designs and how the line is now expanding. It all started with this sketch of what a little girls room would look like if she created it. It was from that drawing that the accessories where born. Everything in this picture can now be purchased. Talk about art coming to life! The dolls are affordable and have age appropriate fun fashions available for both dolls and girls up to size 13.
CEO Howard Kahn began coordinating doll and children’s clothing five years ago and now it’s expanded to include accessories, toys, sleepwear, costumes, and more. He expressed his joy of being able to work together with Madame Alexander. Kahn said, ” I love the fact that my daughters have the story of Beatrice Alexander to look up too.” His passion for this brand was apparent. Personally, I find the fact that Beatrice Alexander was able to build her brand to last 90 years to be amazing. She was a woman ahead of her time. A true inspiration for little girls.
All the outfits, dolls are designed right here in New York. I have never seen so much fabric in my life! Although these headquarters seem smaller then their old digs you could still see the wonder of creation alive from start to finish. Nothing quite like tripping over a box of doll parts to remind you were you are at. Madame Alexander Doll always makes me feel like a kid again.
So, Happy 90th Birthday Madame Alexander! Thank you for letting me celebrate with you again. Way back when I visited the Harlem location Madame Alexander hosted birthday parties there. The other writers and myself were treated to yummy cupcakes and delicious candies from Dylan’s Candy Bar. Madame Alexander also has a Dylan’s Candy Bar Doll arriving in September 2013. She’s on pre-order at the moment, but she was there helping with the candy. So much fun!
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Disclosure: I was NOT compensated for this post or required to write one. I attended the event and was treated to cupcakes, Dylan’s Candy Bar treats, and gift bag. All thoughts are my own. I’m a mo m to boys- love me a chance to get next to some dolls!
Sandy VanHoey says
She has some of the prettiest dolls. I remember when the kids were getting the itty bitty Madame Alexander dolls in Happy meals and they were the cutest too
Narathip Wall says
Wow, look at those dolls! 90 years already!