In a notable shift, American Girl has announced that some of their beloved dolls will feature sewn-in underwear instead of the removable versions fans have come to know. This change will gradually affect the Truly Me dolls, as well as characters like Julie, Melody, and Maryellen from the BeForever line, along with select contemporary dolls.
The company shared this update via Facebook, and the reaction from customers has been mixed, to say the least. Many parents expressed their dissatisfaction, voicing concerns that the new design sends the wrong message about body image. One parent lamented, “Having permanent underwear is an underhanded way of telling young girls to be ashamed of their bodies. Why ruin a good thing?” American Girl quickly clarified that their decision was not motivated by issues of modesty, stating, “No modesty or body issue had any influence on decisions regarding the new style underwear.”
Some collectors and parents have been particularly vocal about their disapproval. One collector declared, “I am an adult collector and a rewards member, who also buys for my daughter, and I will NOT be purchasing any dolls where the underwear is ‘part of the overall cloth body made with a cotton/polyester blend.’ It sends a TERRIBLE message to my daughter.” The frustration is palpable, with many feeling that this change diminishes the brand’s value and restricts play opportunities.
However, not all feedback has been negative. Some parents have welcomed the new design, highlighting its practicality. One mother, whose child has special needs, expressed gratitude for the change, stating, “This will make it easier for her to dress her doll independently, which is a huge win!” Another long-time fan shared, “I’ve been collecting for almost 15 years and I will always love American Girl, regardless of their underwear design!”
When questioned about the rationale behind the change, American Girl explained that it was aimed at maintaining product quality without increasing prices. They also noted that consumer feedback indicated the sewn-in design could simplify play for some children and eliminate the risk of losing underwear—a common issue in doll play.
Regarding concerns about body image, the company reiterated that their mission is to promote self-esteem and a positive body image among girls. “For 30 years, we’ve been championing girls and girlhood,” they affirmed, emphasizing their commitment to empowering young girls.
As for the material used in the new underwear, it is a durable cotton/polyester blend, seamlessly integrated into the doll’s body, with the same sizing for all existing outfits and swimwear. Spot cleaning remains an option for upkeep, ensuring that the dolls can stay clean and cared for.
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In summary, the introduction of sewn-in underwear for American Girl dolls has ignited a debate among parents and collectors, with opinions ranging from disappointment to appreciation for the practical benefits. As the company navigates this change, the focus remains on supporting girls’ self-esteem and ensuring an enjoyable play experience.