American Girl Turns 40 & We’re Celebrating With an Entire Collection of New Dolls That Bring Pure Nostalgia Vibes
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As SheKnows in-house American Girl enthusiast (amongst other things), it brings me great pleasure to announce that our favorite doll company is turning 40 years old this year! Over the last four decades, the brand has made it its mission to bring joy and happiness to young girls in this country and beyond. Aside from producing high-quality dolls that could last for generations, American Girl told stories of courage and bravery through six unique characters that have remained in many women’s hearts (this writer included). And now, 40 years later, they’re bringing those characters back but with a new-age twist.
Allow me to introduce you to the new Modern Era™ doll collection. The latest American Girl drop features the six original Historical Characters — Addy, Felicity, Josefina, Kirsten, Molly, and my favorite, Samantha — all reimagined in today’s styles and trends as smaller 14.5-inch dolls. These new beauties are reminiscent of the original version, just with a modern, 2026 twist. For example, the original Samantha Parkington is known for her iconic plaid dress and large hair bow. This version still has those hints, but now in a chic mini skirt with a tulle hem and a trendy headband. If you can remember how the original dolls look, you will be able to tell who’s who almost immediately.
All new Modern Era™ dolls arrive in a chic outfit, including shoes and accessories. Each one retails for $90 and will officially be available to the public starting Friday, February 13. However, if you want to secure yours sooner, you can get early access to the pre-sale today as an AG Rewards™ member. If you’re not one yet, don’t worry — you can sign uphere. Below, take a closer look at these iconic new dolls and perhaps make one (or all) yours.
NEW AMERICAN GIRL MODERN ERA COLLECTION 2026
Modern Era™ Samantha™ Doll
Isn’t this new Samantha doll just the bees-knees?! She’s outfitted in a chic satin button up blouse and a plaid mini skirt that has a matching headband and purse.
NEW AMERICAN GIRL MODERN ERA COLLECTION 2026
Modern Era™ Josefina™ Doll
I would say Josefina’s new look might the best one yet. Her long printed red skirt is not in a flutter shorts version, with a white peasant-style top, fun cow girl boots, and a brown satchel.
NEW AMERICAN GIRL MODERN ERA COLLECTION 2026
Modern Era™ Felicity™ Doll
Finally, a new rendition of Felicity is here! The iconic red-hed doll wears a fun peplum top in her iconic floral print, long denim jeans with oink bows at the hem, and little pink bag to match.
NEW AMERICAN GIRL MODERN ERA COLLECTION 2026
Modern Era™ Addy™ Doll
After Josefina, Addy’s outfit is the next best thing. Her classic long pink stripped dress is now in a mini version with blue printed panels, with her hair in long passion twists.
Before you go, check out our slideshow below: