Going Green in Toyland: Barbie BCause

First of all, doesn’t it just sound better that it’s April? The weather has been so rough in much of the country, the promise of spring seems more welcomed than ever.

With Earth Day just around the corner (April 22nd), the roll out of green products has begun. I love that Barbie has gotten into the Green groove. You can buy a Barbie that wears a t-shirt that says “Think Pink, Live Green” (a child size version of the shirt also exists).  Also new is an attractive line of Barbie BCause accessories that are made of  re-purposed Barbie clothing scraps. The accessories include notebooks, bags, diaries, etc. They look a lot like Coach in styling. A really nice concept.

Trends from Toyland: The Ultimate Potty Doll: Little Mommy Gotta Go Doll

You know we’re always looking for good potty dolls.  In fact we have certain testing families that really seem focused on this issue.  One of the dolls that we will be certain to pass on to them is Little Mommy Real Loving Baby Gotta Go Doll.  This new doll comes with her own potty that has sound effects.  Now here’s where you may feel the doll has gone too far— when you flush the toilet, there is simulated poop and pee in the potty.  Unlike other dolls, this is all simulated–so you don’t have to worry about cleaning the doll. To her credit, she also comes with a sink–and part of the play is that the doll will wash her hands.  Thankfully. 

Trends from Toyland: Barbie Talk To Me Doll

I always count on Barbie being at the edge. You could see her wearing this “Think Pink Live Green” t-shirt when she goes to see Al Gore speak. I love it. Comes with a t-shirt for a child–unfortunately none in adult sizes, yet.

Also in keeping with Barbie’s commitment to the environment, a new line of accessories for girls call Barbie Bcause. These are small bags and notebooks that are made from re-purposed (the catch phrase of the season) scraps from Barbie’s extensive wardrobe. I thought originally that the Barbie was going to be wearing “re-purposed” clothing, but that’s going too far. The accessories are for girls to wear — they are attractive–very much like Coach bags in styling and use of piece worked materials.

We also look to see what new occupations Barbie is into each year. This year she’s Celebrity Chef (complete with her own TV camera and studio work top) and Zoo Doctor Barbie.