Creative Muse

Thanks to the Greeks, we have had for centuries a way of qualifying those entities that trigger the impulses that lead to expression in the arts and, of course, doll play: creative muse.  Dollectors all have their own.  For this entry, we propose to focus on two of Dolldom's inspirations for play - the first, a longtime source of beauty, glamour and joy, and the second, a new stylish character who has -intentionally- nothing to wear.

Liz Cole of Retros fame has been a constant companion to Dolldom for 20 years. Creator of everything B&G, Liz and her best man, Darren, have created - by hand - some of the most memorable and unique items for fashion dolls. From fashions to furniture to 3-D printed sunglasses and wigs, The House of Retros is steadfast in its production of a world of style that beats to its own drums (bongo, BTW) and that defies the let's-copy-the-runway fad.

Robert Tonner's Rayne, created as the last production doll for Phyn & Aero, was produced with a pair of high-heel sandals, a kick boxing work-out set, and attitude to spare. With a face-up that rivals Barbie's 1959 style, Rayne also sports a body sculpt beyond compare - Tonner's Gal Gadot Wonder Woman. So what is Rayne to wear? According to her creator, that is up to us!

As one and one equal two, then Retros and Rayne equal fabulous fun. Our editors and Rayne went into the Retros vault to select what to wear for this exclusive photo portfolio. Coiffed by Ilaria Mazzoni for Time of Doll and Chewin Malipunte, a basic auburn Rayne, profiles a young woman of character and strength not afraid to reference a time when beauty and glamour meant beauty and glamour!




"Lil' Abner "is the name of this comfortable dress made with a vintage bandana an silk shantung waist. It's summertime fashion at its best. Wig by Ilaria Mazzoni for Time of Doll.


"Gloria" is a Retros classic featuring a cotton-knit shot with gold and silver Lurex threads and cut to allow dancing.


"Poochii" is a suit for any occasion in a vintage crepe and recycled fur collar. Wig by Tonner.


Lo and behold - Rayne is joined in the Retros fun by her best friend Tyler Wentworth.


And soon it's a party with Marley and Antoinette who join in the Retros fun.

Retros Boutique - for B&G!