Nov. 2--Telling a young lady that she's an absolute doll is even more of a compliment than usual at this event.

Once again, the Junior League of Tulsa will host the American Girl Fashion Show this weekend, featuring a tea party and fashion show with apparel worn by each of the "American Girl" dolls. An opening-night patron party is planned at 7 p.m. Friday, with fashion shows Saturday and Sunday.

American Girl (part of the Mattel toy empire) has devoted itself since 1986 to celebrating the potential of girls ages 3 to 12, the brand's Web site says.

Kathy Knight, the show's chairwoman, said: "Kids grow up so fast these days. It's nice to have a line of dolls specifically for girls that is wholesome, with such a positive message for them."

The American Girl books teach girls how to live through adversity and be stronger, she said. "They're timeless."

Haley Fears, a local mother, agrees.

"My husband and I were drawn to American Girl for our oldest daughter because the books teach lessons in a creative and fun way for her to learn about our nation's history," she said.

Knight said each girl can find the doll she most relates to and learn how to express her individuality.

Tulsa-area school girls will model replicas of American Girl doll clothes, and junior and senior high school girls will be narrators. Three girls in the audience at each show will be selected at random to be models, said Katherine Haskell, who is also involved in the event.

A doll

hair salon will be available for every American Girl doll brought in by its owner, she said. Dolls can receive a "fresh look with a new hairstyle," with stylists provided by iidentity salon.

This year's masters of ceremonies are TV personalities -- Karen Larsen on Friday night, Julie Chin at 10 a.m. Saturday, Cindy Morrison at 1 p.m. Saturday, Kristin Dickerson at 4 p.m. Saturday, LaToya Silmon at 1 p.m. Sunday, and Erin Christy at 4 p.m. Sunday.

Proceeds help support the Junior League's training and community projects.

AMERICAN GIRL FASHION SHOW

What: Tea party and style show featuring fashions worn by the American Girl dolls

When: 10 a.m., 1 and 4 p.m. Saturday; 1 and 4 p.m. Sunday

Where: Junior League of Tulsa, 3633 S. Yale Ave.

Tickets: $30 general assigned seating; $35 for premium assigned seating

For more: 663-6100, tulsaworld.com/jltulsa

Jason Ashley Wright 581-8483 jason.wright@tulsaworld.com

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