Sindy Dolls

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Sindy Dolls LogoDuring September 1963 a new 30 second commercial appeared in the London television areas, featuring an 11 inch vinyl doll in denim Jeans and a striped matelot sweatshirt of red, white and blue. She had the girl next door look with rosebud mouth, large blue eyes and a casual ‘wash and go’ hairstyle of bouncy curls, available in blonde, auburn or brunette. Along with a red Alice band and white lace up sneakers. How could she fail to impress?

Market research proved that the most popular name for girls at the time, was Sindy. Now all that remained was to sell the doll to retailers. Lines Bros. (Pedigree) of Merton, London, decided to use a catchy jingle to launch Sindy the doll you’ll love to dress‘ – four verses went on sell the first eight outfits and separates, her little dog Ringo and the song of Sindy played on her own gramophone.

1970s Sindy DollsSeen as just another teenage doll retails were reluctant to stock the ‘Weekender’ clad beauty. Armed with green Ford Anglia vans, Pedigree salesmen travelled with promotional letters and a gramophone to introduce Sindy. An introductory package of nine Sindy dolls, in various hair colours and a selection 48 outfit packs were offered, (a mix of both outfits and separates). Along with a free stand, with a flag bearing Sindy’s name and free Sindy Bazaar leaflets. Available for £19/1/9d plus purchase tax.

Early Sindy Doll & AccessoriesDuring the next 10 years, Sindy was to acquire a boyfriend, little sister, English and European friends. There were also friends for her little sister. There was to be over 150 fashions, numerous job changes, furiture and even her very own red MGB sports car! What more could a girl ask for? Over the next 22 years there were to be many changes to Sindy and her busy lifestyle. Her face and body changed 10 times in an attempt to keep her youthful and up to date.

Outfits were varied and in all the latest styles and fabrics. There were minis and maxis, stockings and tights, dresses, trousers and even a range designed by David and Elizabeth Emmanuel.

1980s Sindy DollsHair stitches, with attached alice bands, prowded hours of fun, as Sindy could have bunches, plaits, pageboy and many other hair styles, depending on the outfit she was wearing. These were available in blonde, auburn or brunette. Footwear also changed with the times. Kitten heels, sandals, knee high and ankle boots, trainers and sneakers, slippers, court shoes and finally slingbacks available in assorted colours. Furniture was also provided and each year the range available became more and more el aborate. Starting with beds and wardrobes, eventually there were houses, horses and horseboxes, a four poster bed, beauty salons, caravans a green house and her very own television studio.

In 1986 Sindy was sold onto Hasbro, and although these dolls are collected it is the Sindy and accessories from the earlier times that are most collectable. In 1997 Sindy disappeared altogether, and despite being contacted by collectors about the future of Sindy, Hasbro have yet to respond. Hopefully, Sindy will return at some stage bringing delight to a new generation of children (and collectors!).


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