Colorforms Magic Fashion Show {Review}

Out of all of the toys from my childhood that have resurfaced or stuck around until this generation, there are many that I'm glad to see have withstood the test of time. On the other hand, there are also the ones that were good in theory, but really did need a little updating to make them better.

For one: paper dolls.

The idea of a doll with interchangeable clothing was good, but the actual product never seemed all that great. A flimsy piece of paper with even flimsier clothing with those tiny tabs that never held in place? Was I the only one that had them fall apart after a time or two of use?

Instead, I've now been introduced to the modern, much more long-lasting version in the form of the Colorforms Magic Fashion Show.

The classic toy brand that has inspired young kids to follow their own imaginations for over 60 years, Colorforms is a name that we already knew and loved prior to being introduced to this new and innovative toy. My kids have had a blast with their unique magically-sticking plastic pieces for years!

Therefore, when I heard that the Magic Fashion Show playset would let them become a head designer of their own fashion shows using the same self-adhering properties, I knew that my girls would love it. With the ability to dress runway models "backstage" in different outfits and accessories and then send them along a moving, circular catwalk to show off each new ensemble under a real working spotlight... well, what little girl wouldn't adore that?

As Big Sister E and I sat down to give this fun toy a try, we were immediately interested in the bright colors and entertaining pictures right on the box.

Opening it up, we found the five pieces of the fashion show stage, five standing figures and plenty of Colorforms' Stick-Ons play pieces to create hundreds of different outfit combinations.

It only took a minute or two and we had the batteries installed and the fashion show hooked together, so then it was time to start dressing our models. I appreciated the way that Colorforms made it easy to peel off the backing around the clothing, shoes and accessories...

...as that allowed for small hands to be able to peel them off of the backing without problem, as well as reapply them there when not in use.

Big Sister E and I got right to work and giggled over the various dresses, skirts, sunglasses, hats, coats, and more that were included. I have to admit that I got into the process right along with her because it was just so easy to stick an item right to the model and have it stay right in place so that she was ready for the fashion show.

Then, with one flick of a switch, we had the lights on and the show was ready to begin. Each of the models stands easily in the designated slots and Big Sister E loved being able to turn the dial on the back and have the inner platform spin around.

After one time around the stage, we paused the show so that each of the models could change into a completely different outfit.

And then we did it again.

And again.

And again!

Both Big Sister E and Little Sister B have had a blast with the Colorforms Magic Fashion Show since it arrived and it hasn't left the table where we originally set it up because they just continue to head over and play with it. With the convenient drawer to store the Stick-Ons right on the main toy, it is always all there and ready for play.

Even though it is designed for girls ages 3 - 8 and Little Sister B is just under 3, she has had no problem manipulating the pieces (it is as easy as putting on stickers) and she gets just as much of a kick out of coming up with a fun outfit for her model as her sister and I do!

I love that with the various models included that this is a toy that can be played with alone or with up to five kids. So, no matter if it is for one of my girls' quiet playtime by herself or when she has multiple friends over, I know that we'll get continued use out of the Magic Fashion Show for years to come. If you have a young girl in your life that likes dolls and dress up, there's a good chance that she'll enjoy this unique and entertaining way to dress her Colorforms models backstage and send them down the runway!

Retailing for $24.98, the Colorforms Magic Fashion Show can be found in Toys 'R Us stores, online at Amazon or directly from the Colorforms retail website, AreYouGame.com. Plus, for a limited time if you enter the coupon code SAVE2MFS at checkout from AreYouGame, you'll receive a $2 discount!

For more information about Colorforms and their fun collection of products, visit their website and connect with them on Facebook.

(Other than the Magic Fashion Show that I was sent by Colorforms in conjunction with Tomoson.com, I was not provided with anything or enticed to do this review in any way. This review is solely my opinion of this company and their high quality products.)