SWEET 16: DECEMBER 2001

To commemorate Mary-Kate and Ashley's 16th birthday, Mattel introduced a new line of dolls reflecting their transition into young adulthood. These dolls featured a more mature appearance, redesigned packaging, and newly sculpted body molds, marking the company's shift away from the traditional Skipper body mold. Unlike previous versions, these dolls no longer had a twisting waist articulation. Each doll was sold individually and included birthday-themed accessories, a poster, outerwear, and an additional outfit. This release was part of a close collaboration with Mary-Kate and Ashley, who participated in promotional efforts by modeling outfits inspired by the dolls and appearing in a commercial for the collection.

INTERESTING FACTS

• This release was a significant initiative from Dualstar, Mary-Kate and Ashley's company, as part of their broader "Sweet 16" product line. The campaign extended beyond dolls to include books, video games, a direct-to-video film, a doll-sized car, and an online presence.
• The doll collection was also promoted through a television commercial that aired in both the United States and Australia. However, due to regional differences in branding, the term "Sweet 16" was omitted in Australia, and the dolls were marketed under the name "Birthday Bash," with packaging adjusted accordingly.

MATTEL PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

These dolls let girls role play as the famous actresses celebrating their sweet "16th birthday." Each of these popular celebrities comes with two complete outfits- a trendy day time look and hip party fashion.

• 53844 Mary-Kate: For her birthday, she wears a purple knit jacket with fur-like trim, a diamond-printed top, denim-like skirt, purple boots and a purse. For her party, she has a blue floral halter dress and blue platform sandals. She comes with a camera, cake, sunglasses, chip art invitation, card and present.
• 53845 Ashley: For her bday, she wears a pink brushed faux fur jacket, pink V-neck top, pink and red printed pants, pointed mules and a purse. For her party, she has a pink floral halter dress and pink platform sandals. She comes with a camera, cake, sunglasses, chip art invitation, card and present.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Availability: United States, Australia and Canada.
• Packaging Variants: Additionally, in Australia, the "Birthday Bash" versions of the Mary-Kate and Ashley dolls featured slight design variations, including reversed hair parting compared to their U.S. counterparts.
• Design Team: Judy Swartz (Doll Outfits), Lily Martinez (Collaborative Designer), Erika Kane (Lead Designer).

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