“The genesis of this collaboration was a meeting in late 2020, where the fusion of Virgil Abloh’s creative vision and Monster High’s distinctive character sparked a groundbreaking partnership,” said Kim Culmone, Senior Vice President and Head of Doll Design, Mattel. “The Off-White™ c/o Monster High collaboration signifies the celebration of creativity, non-conformity and the boundless possibilities that arise when fashion, art, and toy culture converge.”
Virgil Abloh’s strong connection to this collaboration was evident, as it was one of the last projects he actively pursued, highlighting its special significance. Abloh’s inspiration came from his longstanding desire to explore the world of toys, driven by his close relationship with his children. Despite his prolific career in collaborations, his partnership with Mattel marked his first venture into toys, showcasing his innovative spirit. Abloh was captivated by the distinctive appeal of Monster High, known for its fresh street-inspired style and strong embrace of individuality.
Abloh aimed to reimagine Off-White™’s iconic looks using the unique design language of Monster High, adding creative depth to the partnership. These four original Monster High dolls, dressed in Off-White™ runway ensembles, serve as a living testament to the brand’s identity and its unique interpretation of “Monsterfication.” The limited-edition Off-White™ c/o Monster High collaboration features four dolls, each with their own unique personalities and a musical punk twist: Electra Melody™, Harmonie Ghoul™, Raven Rhapsody™, and Symphanee Midnight™.
- Electra Melody: Electra Melody, a sea monster who steals the show at any monster bash, unveils a stunning fashion spectacle. She perfectly embodies Off-White™’s Spring 2018 Ready-to-Wear show with meticulous attention to detail. Electra wears the iconic “DRESS” dress, mismatched gloves, and eye-catching Jimmy Choo x Off-White™-inspired clear-wrapped heels. Showcasing Off-White™’s dedication to accessories, Electra proudly displays miniature versions of Off-White sunglasses and the coveted Burrow 22 shoulder bag. Her extravagant orange and black mohawk offers a daring glimpse into her wild and alternative persona.
- Harmonie Ghoul: Harmonie Ghoul, a franken-monster created in a lab, showcases her unique style with a look inspired by Off-White™’s Spring 2017 Ready-to-Wear collection. She makes a bold statement in a tiered checkered dress and red knee-high boots. One boot is labeled “NOT FOR WALKING” while the other is labeled “NOT FOR DANCING.” To complete her ensemble, she wears doll-sized versions of Off-White™ earrings and carries Off-White™’s Burrow 20 chain-link shoulder bag, which includes a custom Monster High Skullette keychain – a symbol of fashionable rebellion.
- Raven Rhapsody: Raven Rhapsody, a gargoyle, dark and endless as the night sky, embodies the entire ensemble from Off-White™’s Spring 2017 Ready-to-Wear collection, merging sporty and elevated aesthetics. Her striking wings and horn hat create a captivating scene. Completing her look are iconic Off-White™ accessories, including a black belt bag and neon pink logo earrings, showcasing the perfect blend of style and edge.
- Symphanee Midnight: Symphanee Midnight, a specter spirit who disappears and reappears ready to take the dance floor. She captivates in Off-White™’s Fall 2020 Ready-to-Wear masterpiece – a black Arc’teryx outfit that seamlessly blends high fashion with sportswear. Her monster ballgown exudes bridal-wear-inspired elegance, featuring striking ruffles that contrast with the Arc’teryx windbreaker. Adorned with chain-link jewelry and effortlessly carrying her Off-White Jitney 1.4 bag, Symphanee embodies the perfect fusion of style and utility.
The attention to detail and design extends beyond the dolls themselves, with packaging specifically created for collectors in mind. Through a collaborative effort between Off-White™, Mattel Creations, and the Monster High design teams, the final packaging design allows collectors to easily remove the lid, handle the doll, and then place her back inside while keeping the packaging intact. The lettering on the packaging was meticulously refined to achieve a sophisticated look and feel. The exquisite packaging details continue with the accessories, as each doll comes with a miniature Off-White™ bag that features a Monster High Skullector charm.
This collaboration builds upon Mattel Creations’ previous partnership with Virgil Abloh for the Masters of the Universe c/o Virgil Abloh™ “TOY” collection. The “TOY” figures showcased monochromatic colors and text-based interventions that reimagined these iconic toys from a fresh perspective, inviting fans to see them in a new light.
Both Monster High and Mattel Creations have a history of promoting couture-inspired toys with visionary designs. Mattel Creations is not just a digital marketplace; it serves as a platform for unique collectibles crafted by creators, collaborators, and innovators who share a deep love and nostalgia for the brands in Mattel’s portfolio. It is where toys and art merge, allowing everyone to relive their passion for a beloved story, character, or brand. Given Monster High’s ethos of acceptance and celebration of individuality, Mattel Creations is the perfect home for the iconic Off-White™ c/o Monster High collection.
The four ghouls will be first introduced to shop in-store from Off-White™ flagship locations in Miami, New York City, Las Vegas, Paris and Milan dropping on October 11th. Electra Melody will be available on MattelCreations.com, Mattel’s direct-to-consumer site where toys and art intersect, and Off-White.com beginning October 13th at 6PM ET.
