The weekend of 23-25 June was the one when this year's JAMIEshow Convention took place in Chicago. The theme was East Meets West, so Gene and friends got to dress up in Japanese inspired outfits, as they are supposed to be making a spy film named Red Lotus, that takes place there. A new character appeared, named Luna Li, a former model and now movie star in Japan. Madra is there of course, trying to steal the spotlight as always, while Trent was in Japanese clothes but in a grey version, matching the famous Lady Grey Gene. There was another gorgeous new doll presented, Ling Lang, as well as some impressive outfits, ranging from $75 to $120. Let's check them out.

Ling Lang Black Dragon

This is the most beautiful doll from the convention. Face, hair, outfit, all perfect. The embroidered back is stunning. Just a reminder here that all dolls are resin dolls. Prices ranged from $500 to $600.

Luna Li, convention souvenir doll

Beautiful doll and I love her kimono. It reminds me a bit of the one worn by the very first Kyori Sato doll from Integrity Toys. Black kimonos always stand out because they are not seen so often.

Gene Marshall

I think I'd prefer her in a long skirt for this style. The bangs in her hairstyle is something I could do without. The jacket is stunning.

Madra Lord

Gorgeous looking doll. I love the mask, it gives her that extra evil mysterious look. Her wig cap is perfect and her outfit reminds me of a Dior by Galliano look from way back. The pearls of the earrings are jarringly big. Would have liked them more delicate.

Trent Osborne

Amazing looking doll. That outfit rocks. I'd love it for an Asian male doll (which is so rare in 1/4 scale) to compliment my Memoirs of a Geisha dolls. I bet people that have Grey Lady Gene would love to have him stand right beside her.

Below are the outfits available at the convention, shown on Ginnie. The quality and craftsmanship stands out. My favourite is the sleeveless black and print long take on the qipao below. For availability of any remaining dolls and outfits from the convention check the JAMIEshow website. Bravo JAMIEshow for another fantastic convention collection.

All photos courtesy of JAMIEshow dolls, used by permission.

Gene Marshall is the fashion doll that did for 16" dolls what Barbie did for the 1/6 scale ones: established the fashion doll rules for the particular scale and made every doll thereafter compare to it. Since JamieShow took over the line and collaborated with the creator Mel Odom, the doll reached new heights of quality and sophistication. For its 20 year anniversary (and the 5th of JamieShow dolls) the dolls did not disappoint - and we got some added bonus as well.

The convention doll was none other than Gene Marshall in a Lady Grey resin version. The concept had first been done by Mel when the doll was produced by Integrity Toys for their 2007 Gene Marshall convention design contest and now she's in resin, even more glamorous and sophisticated, with her tiara and evening gown, inspired by a Charles James original. I like the concept better with this hair colour than the ashen blond used in the previous version.

And here is a very happy Mel Odom at the convention with the doll in his hands:

Of course there were more dolls in the Gene Marshall line:

As you can see, there was Oona, Madra, Violet and a new, grey-haired Trent in limited editions of 20 dolls per sculpt, each priced at $475. Check them out below in larger photos.

All photos courtesy of George Gonzales and JamieShow dolls

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