What is a Blythe doll?

Doll with red hair and floral pants on a red background

Blythe dolls are a line of fashion dolls instantly recognisable by their oversized heads and large, captivating eyes that change colour and direction with the pull of a string.

Originally created in 1972 by designer Allison Katzman and produced by the American toy company Kenner, the doll was a initially a commercial failure and sales stopped after only 1 year.

For decades, Blythe remained an obscure, niche vintage collectible.

However, in the late 90's the doll became more well known due to NY based photographer Gina Garan. She received an original doll as a gift and started photographing her everywhere using her as a model and a muse. Blythe gained a cult following, particularly in Japan.

Doll with white hair, colorful eyes, and a green lace headband on a plain background

In 2000, Japanese company Takara started manufacturing Blythe once more. Since then, Neo Blythe has evolved into a global cultural icon, celebrated in the worlds of fashion, photography, and design.

Japanese creative agency CWC and toy manufacturer Good Smile Company produce Neo Blythe dolls to this day, releasing new dolls regularly to the joy of collectors and fans worldwide.