North American Bear Gets First Sophie & Lili License

Playthings Staff -- Gifts and Dec, 1/22/2013 3:39:24 PM

Sophie & Lilli dolls by Jennifer ValezCHICAGO - The North American Bear Company acquired the first licensing deal for Sophie & Lili, which includes an exclusive for dolls and soft accessories to debuting fall 2013.

Both companies prepare for the official launch of the new line at New York International Gift Fair Jan. 27-30, 2013 (North American Bear Booth #1830). Exclusive Sophie & Lili I Love My Friends designs for North American Bear by artist Jennifer Vallez include a brightly colored collection of six diverse doll friends: Sophie, Lili, Joy, Lena, Mimi and Gigi; six 12" dolls; and coordinating 6½" mini dolls. Made of screen-printed cotton fabric in two-dimensional design, each doll features an outfit on front and a custom textile print on back. Large dolls are sized for play or fun room décor and safe for all ages. Mini dolls for girls ages 3-plus and are handy clips for accessorizing backpacks and purses.

Originally a boutique clothing line for young girls, Sophie & Lili evolved into a signature collection of dolls. Designed in the studio of artist Jennifer Vallez, each doll is a character all her own, made of fabrics that are boldly contemporary but timeless in their simplicity. With a full-time job and two young children, Vallez was looking for just the right partner to help her meet the growing demand for her contemporary dolls: "Designing these dolls is something I am truly passionate about, but making them all myself was not something I really planned. I researched a few companies and focused on one which really impressed me - North American Bear Company. I was smitten with the quality of their designs and how closely knit their company is. It felt like a perfect fit."
Kicking off its 35th anniversary in 2013, North American Bear is excited to launch Sophie & Lili^TM I Love My Friends and grow the line while maintaining the timeless simplicity and delightful charm their fans know and love.
Visit the North American Bear Company NY Gift Fair booth #1830 for an early sneak peek of the Sophie & Lili new dolls and meet Sophie & Lili artist Jennifer Vallez on January 27 and 28th. The competitively priced new doll collection will be available in specialty children's, gift, toy and apparel stores Fall 2013.