The Truly Elusive Natalia Fatale

Integrity Toys had to replace the head for my Elusive Creature.  Followers may remember how the doll I received had very wonky eyes.  Unfortunately, I believe the quality control issues surrounding this doll significantly damaged her reputation.   Here is a photo of her still in her box (the eye issue is even more noticeable at a distance).

It took several weeks for me to receive my replacement, but , as you can see, the replacement is quite good.

Even though I was a fan of the "Urban Safari" theme, the fabric weights on these ensembles were just too far off from each other.  The skirt is thin material and very short, the blouse is mesh, but the vest is heavy and thick. I believe there are good mix and match possibilities with winter ensembles.  Here is a full length photo of the ensemble.

Here is a photo of the accessories separate from the doll.

The true beauty of Elusive Creature Natalia Fatale is not realized until you start redressing her.  It was a very snug fit around the hips, but this is the bodysuit from the Chameleon ensemble in 2006.

Elusive Creature Natalia Fatale may be the dark horse of the 2014.  She is quite gorgeous when set free to explore the wilds of the IT doll closets.

Best of 2014 - Number 1

When I started my countdown over 10 days ago, I had every intention of making Vanessa Perrin Number 1.   After all, there were six versions from two different molds released.  For the first time ever, collectors were actually paying high secondary market prices for mold 3.0 versions and buying multiples of single versions.

The character that I placed at Number 1 is Elise Jolie.   Until 2014, my favorite version of Elise Jolie was Blue Blood from the 2009 Iconic Convention.  The only version of Elise that is on my grail list is Engaging.

2014 added three new versions.  The mainline doll was called On The Rise.   She had an edition size of 700 and sold for $135.  I had originally passed on this doll but wound up getting a nude one on secondary market.  There is something special about this face up.  I really like the smaller lips.  I don't know how I missed this doll (it was probably the mustard yellow dress that was throwing me).

Ms. Jolie also caused quite a stir at the Gloss Convention.  Intrigue Elise Jolie was the centerpiece doll at the banquet.  250 lucky attendees were given the opportunity to purchase this doll.  She totally rocks my world!

I think she definitely has that Karl Lagerfeld aura.  I like that she has a caucasian skin tone for a change.  She is truly amazing, and I can't wait to debox her.

Intrigue Elise was a hair's width away from being my Number 1 choice, but, the truth of the matter is that the next doll has gotten more camera time than any other doll added to my collection in 2014.  At first, I did not like this doll and even stated the doll didn't impress me. She only joined my collection because someone offered a nude version of Montaigne Market for sale at a good price; I figured I'd give her a try.

Best of 2014
Number 1
Montaigne Market Elise Jolie

May the New Year be one filled with love, joy, happiness, and adventure.  I wish you only the best for the next 365 days!  Happy New Year!