With the final specifications soon to be revealed, we sat down with Blythe’
s total producer, Junko Wong, to talk about the upcoming anniversary doll, "Momoiro no Hime".
Read on to discover the heartfelt story behind this special doll-and Junko's deep love for Blythe.
Q1: In "Momoiro no Hime," a kimono style has been adopted for the very first time in an anniversary doll. Could you tell us about the inspiration and story behind this design choice?
A1: We're looking ahead to celebrating our 25th Anniversary in 2026. While Blythe was originally created in the U.S. by Allison Katzman in 1972, it was her revival in 2000 by CWC in Japan that truly brought her into the global spotlight. Over the past 25 years, my team and I have had the privilege of shaping what Blythe has become today, right here in Japan. Through this kimono look, I wanted to honor the country where she was reborn and share that story with the world.
Q2: The name includes the word “Momoiro” (peach pink). What meaning or message is behind this color choice?
A2: Pink is often seen as the color of love, and love is at the heart of everything Blythe represents. In Japanese, "momo" means peach, and there's a beloved folktale here about Momotaro - a boy who was born from a peach that floated gently down the river. He grew up to be strong, kind, and full of courage.
Blythe’s soft pink color is a gentle nod to that story. Like Momotaro, she has grown into someone who is not only strong, but also full of love and care for her friends and family. Momoiro no Hime - the Peach-Colored Princess - perfectly captures who she is: a princess of both love and strength.
Q3: What aspects of the design did you particularly focus on or take special care with?
A3: I wanted her kimono to strike a balance between tradition and playfulness. While the foundation is rooted in classic kimono design, I chose to break a few conventions to bring out her unique charm. By adding frills, lace, and soft, feminine details, the look becomes both nostalgic and fresh. It’s a celebration of heritage reimagined in a modern, whimsical way - a blend of timeless elegance and contemporary creativity.
Q4: Many fans are looking forward to the final specifications being revealed. How do you personally feel about how the doll turned out?
A4: I’m truly delighted with how this year’s anniversary limited-edition Blythe turned out. The concept of using a kimono made the design process especially challenging, but also very rewarding. We were fortunate to receive support from a skilled kimono artist who helped sew the sample dress
- their expertise made a big difference.
While I love every detail, my favorite part is her hair. It’s a rich, dark brown styled in a classic hime cut, which immediately evokes a sense of traditional Japanese beauty. This elegant hairstyle contrasts beautifully with the soft pink hues of her modern, playful kimono, creating a perfect balance between old and new.
Q5: If you could take "Momoiro no Hime" out on a little adventure, where would you like to go with her? And how would you like people to enjoy playing with her?
A5: She truly shines wherever she goes. But of course, some of the most special places to take her are those that complement her traditional style - somewhere in Japan, where the scenery enhances the beauty of her kimono. I’
m thinking of Kyoto, where I visit every winter; its timeless charm would be the perfect backdrop. Or perhaps Europe, where the historic architecture would create equally stunning settings for photography. No matter where you take her, she has a way of shining - she’ll look beautiful in every photo you capture.
Q6: Could you share your thoughts on what anniversary dolls mean to you, and the feelings you’ve poured into them over the years?
A6: I’ve mentioned many times just how significant the anniversary dolls are to Blythe. Some people may refer to her as a brand, a commodity, a toy, or a hobby, but it's hard for me to view her in those terms. To me, Blythe is a living, breathing spirit. The anniversary dolls are a celebration of her existence - they are what breathe life into her enduring presence. These dolls represent the legacy of Neo Blythe, carrying with them the blood, sweat, and tears of all the effort we've poured into her creation.
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