Have you ever wondered about the history behind the beloved American Girl character Felicity Merriman?
First introduced in 1991, Felicity Merriman arrived in her bright red hair, almond-shaped eyes, and a wardrobe that epitomized Colonial fashion.
In 2021, American Girl celebrated its 35th anniversary by reintroducing Felicity Merriman in a limited edition bundle. This anniversary edition not only honored the character’s origins but also offered a fresh perspective with updated features and accessories.
Let see Felicity through the lens of her first and last editions, comparing the nuances of design, storytelling, and collector appeal.
Historical Context and Initial Release (1991)
In 1991, American Girl introduced Felicity Merriman, a character set in Colonial Williamsburg during the Revolutionary War era.
Her appearance reflected careful attention to detail: her facial features, including muted eye color and light beige eyebrows, were dressed that authentically captured the fashion and lifestyle of Colonial America.
Felicity’s bright red hair, styled in a center part with three pin curls at the sides, framed her round face. Accessories such as a cream-colored bonnet, handkerchief, and unique jewelry completed her authentic Colonial ensemble.
Her attire featured a blend of traditional fabrics and designs, with accessories such as a cream-colored bonnet and handkerchief that underscored her period-specific wardrobe.
The original hardcover book, “Meet Felicity,” provided readers with an intimate introduction to her world, complete with illustrations and narratives that brought her story to life.
See also: Six Original American Girl Dolls
Re-release for 35th Anniversary (2021)
The 2021 re-release of Felicity Merriman came packaged with dressing in the exquisite Rose Garden Gown, a gown that epitomized the elegance and charm of Colonial-era fashion. This gown, paired with woolen socks and subtle modifications like three-quarter length sleeves.
Beyond her attire, Felicity’s facial features and accessories were meticulously recreated to honor her original characterization. Her eyes returned to the original Pleasant Company green shade, reminiscent of the earliest editions.
Over time, Felicity’s hairstyle and grooming have evolved to reflect changes in doll-making techniques and consumer preferences. The original doll featured fewer and less defined pin curls, reflecting the craftsmanship of the early 1990s. In contrast, the 2021 re-release maintained her signature vibrant red hair while incorporating updated styling techniques to enhance detail and durability.
This attention to detail extended to her hair styling, with the reintroduction of neck strings and a hairstyle faithful to her character portrayal.
The re-release bundle also included the first edition parchment-style “Meet Felicity” book, offering collectors a chance to revisit her captivating story from its original format.
Each edition carries its own charm and historical significance. The first Felicity captures the essence of early American Girl dolls with its classic styling and distinctive features, while the 35th anniversary edition reintroduces her with a blend of authenticity and modern design elements.
What do you think? Which one is your favorite?
