For a few years now, Mattel has been creating and selling unique, exclusive products on their Mattel Creations website. While not focused solely on Barbie, but all Mattel brands, they have released quite a few cool items, including exclusive dolls, over the years. In today’s post, I felt it would be nice to highlight the website and give you a brief glimpse into what they offer. Because Mattel Creations loves to create ‘capsule’ collections, the stock is always changing!
Substack limits photos per post, so I am unable to show off everything I like. I recommend you give the site a look after reading this article. You’re bound to find some other neat items that are perfect to add to your collection or show off your love of the brand in your office or home.
Mugs:
Yes, I know, no one really needs a new mug for their beverage of choice, but Mattel Creations makes some super cute ones. Take the new Valentine’s Day mug, for example, which takes inspiration from the Valentine’s (and dolls) from the 1990’s. Monster High fans, this one is for you— the Monster High Alumni Mug. I own this one and love it! It’s great for casual fans, as well as diehard fans. Less understated, but just as different and cool is the Malibu Comic Mug. And this is just a small selection of many unique mugs and glassware found on Mattel Creations. You can see more mug offerings here.
Home Goods:
The home goods on the site vary from collection to collection, but currently, Mattel Creations has some really fun picture frames and two comfy blankets. The frames look adorable and would be perfect for your favorite photos. I love the graphics on the 1960’s photo frame! As for the blankets, I own the Sherpa Monster High alumni logo blanket and really like it. I had a coupon when purchasing it, so it wasn’t as expensive as it currently is, but it is a well-made blanket that keeps me warm, but not overheated.
Apparel:
One thing Mattel Creations has a lot of is clothing! And unique clothing at that. I’ve picked up a few t-shirts and sweatshirts from the site with varying degrees of satisfaction. While Mattel Creations has a size chart, it’s not always accurate. The biggest downside of the site is that you can’t exchange sizes, so you’re out of luck if something doesn’t fit. Items are non-returnable and no refunds or credits are given. I would love to see that change to a return system more in line with print on demand sites.
That being said, some of the designs are too cute! I own the “Inspiring since 1959” shirt and love it! I’m also very tempted by the Totally Hair Barbie t-shirt!
Dolls:
And of course, one of Mattel Creations biggest draws are exclusive dolls. Many Monster High and Barbie releases are exclusive to Mattel Creations, like the curious looking Barbie x noonoouri 2 Pack, which features two very stylized dolls, only available on the website.
Certain dolls are less limited and sold outside of just Mattel Creations. Similarly, for some releases, first dibs go to those in Barbie Club 59 or the Fang Club for Monster High Collectors, who are able to pre-order certain dolls before the general public can purchase them.
The benefits for this yearly subscription ($9.99) are hit or miss, honestly, but sometimes its nice knowing you have a leg up when shopping for a doll you are looking forward to! On top of that, members of the clubs get access to special ‘members only’ dolls, like this Barbie Fashion Model Doll or the Barbie Gala Collection Pink Premiere Barbie.
One of my favorite Mattel Creations releases is Greta Gremlin. I was lucky enough to get her, as the Monster High Skullector dolls generally sell out pretty quick. My mom recently picked up the 3 pack of the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus, as well. It’s a cute set!
To wrap this up, Mattel Creations isn’t a perfect website— they definitely have some problems— but it is a good place to look if you’re trying to find unique Barbie doll (and Monster High) merchandise. You never know what you’ll find!
What’s your opinion of Mattel Creations? Share it in the comment area!