This African American doll is dressed in a traditional African outfit. The designer wasn't familiar enough with traditional African clothing and cannot take complete credit for the originality of this design (thank-you Simplicity Patterns for your help!) A scrap of genuine African print fabric was the inspiration for this three piece outfit. A long straight skirt with side split, a peplum top with full sleeves and a traditional hat are all fashioned from a burgundy, black and gold African print fabric. Each piece is accented with bands of black or gold satin and all pieces are trimmed with gold braid. Her nails have been painted and her hair has been crimped. She is wearing soft gold panties, chunky gold hoop earrings, and black closed toe pumps accented with gold beads. Although this doll was brand new (The designer took her out of her sealed box) she has a slight indentation on her right instep, which is not noticeable with her outfit and shoes on. She is a beauty for sure. (Designer also borrowed the name "Miss Black and Gold" from a sorority at her college who held a pageant for woman of color by the same name.)
This doll resides in the collection of Linda Memioja in Mendota Heights, Minnesota.
Last Modified: December 20, 1999