Friends

Friends is a theme released starting in late 2011 aimed at girls and featuring sets with a new type of figure, something called a mini-doll.

Set Lists

Set lists by theme, subtheme and year of release are available using the following resources.

BrickSet: set list

Peeron: set list

Bricklink: set list

Controversy

Although the line featured the pink and pastel colours many fans have come to expect in products aimed at girls, it was the introduction of the mini-doll in particular that caused the most uproar. These not-quite-minifigs are slightly taller than regular figs, are able to hold accessories designed for the minifig hand and can wear minifig hair or hat elements. However, the torso and legs are not compatible with minifigs and the more realistic shape of the bodies and faces (including noses!) is not generally compatible when viewed together. The more critical fans described these figures as LEGO versions of Polly Pocket.

Fans have long complained that LEGO was not offering enough female minifigs and sets designed to appeal to girls. For many, Friends is another failed attempt like Scala or Belville. For other fans however, the line is seen as a success with many heretofore uninterested girls being attracted to the hobby and the sets offering some interesting new elements and using previously rare colours.

Initial sales were good and despite complaints from feminist groups relating to gender stereotyping and sexualisation, the line may be the company's most successful attempt to sell LEGO to girls.

External Links

• Brooklyn woman starts petition against girl-themed Legos from NY Daily News -accessed June 7, 2020
• Legos for Girls: A Reprise from The Mary Sue: a guide to girl geek culture -accessed June 7, 2020
• LEGO for girls sparks complaints, controversy from Orlando Sentinel -accessed June 7, 2020
• Lego Is for Girls from BusinessWeek - accessed June 19, 2020