My mom reminded me the other day that I was in second grade when I received my beloved American Girl doll. She had bought it for me as a reward for wearing my new glasses to school. (As a seven-year-old, I was terrified of being teased about my new four-eyed look.) My mom's bribe must have worked because I donned my glasses and became the proud owner of a Samantha doll. She was my favorite toy--a companion I carried, dressed up, styled, and loved.

Mpls.St.Paul Magazine editors Melissa Colgan, Erin Gulden, and I--all professional twentysomethings who were part of the American Girl-craze in the early '90s--were invited to tour the just-opened, two-story American Girl boutique at Mall of America last Friday. When we were done reminiscing about the books we read, the outfits we had, and the dolls we still wanted (yes, we know we're too old), we snapped some photos and recorded a video for StyleParlor.tv. Check out our experience below . . .
 


American Girl, Nickelodeon Universe, Mall of America, 888-777-0010