The first-ever fashion doll convention has made its way to Quebec, bringing collectors and fans together to see or purchase rare and sought-after dolls, including Barbie, Integrity Toys, Monster High, and Bratz. The inaugural MTL FashionDollCon, held Saturday at the Holiday Inn in Laval, brought together vendors and collectors, offering attendees the chance to shop for dolls or view unique collections. Among the dolls for sale was the original Barbie, released in 1959, for $8,000, along with a range of Barbie Silkstone dolls, higher-end collector dolls, and boxed pieces. Bringing the community together Mick Valletta, the creator of MTL FashionDollCon, says the goal of the convention is to bring the fashion doll community together and celebrate the hobby. “This event is about bringing more awareness to fashion doll collecting and creating the kind of space I’ve always wanted to see in Montreal,” he said. “It means a lot to bring collectors together, connect with those who have the same passion, and celebrate the hobby as a community.” Valletta is a longtime doll collector. He received his first Barbie at age three — the 1991 Holiday Barbie — sparking his longtime interest in fashion dolls, styling, and collecting. Convention offers interactive experience After attending and participating in collector events outside the province, including in Ottawa, he wanted to create something similar for the Montreal community. A Barbie Expo that opened a decade ago is on display at Les Cours Mont-Royal in Montreal, where it has remained popular. However, Valletta says MTL FashionDollColl offers a more interactive experience, allowing fans to view collections, shop from vendors, and connect directly with other doll fans. “Barbie has always given me a way to explore my creativity, express myself, and simply find joy every day,” Valletta said. “Bringing this event to Montreal and seeing how many other collectors connect with dolls in their own way is really special. I wanted to create a space where people can come together, be themselves, share that passion, and feel connected to a community.”
