American Girl dolls have been a beloved part of many girls' childhoods since their inception in 1986. As the collection has grown over the years, so has the variety in doll sizes. Understanding the different sizes can help you choose the perfect American Girl doll for your child or your own collection. Let's dive into the world of American Girl doll sizes.
Historical Sizes: 9-inch and 18-inch Dolls
When American Girl dolls first hit the market, they came in two sizes: 9 inches and 18 inches. The 9-inch dolls were part of the "Little Sisters" line, designed to be smaller and more affordable, while the 18-inch dolls were the main characters in the historical series.
9-inch Dolls
The 9-inch dolls, now known as "Bitty Baby" dolls, are the smallest in the American Girl collection. They are intended for younger children, typically aged 3 to 7. Despite their small size, they are still highly detailed and come with their own accessories and storylines.

18-inch Dolls
The 18-inch dolls are the most iconic size in the American Girl collection. They are designed for children aged 8 and up, and each doll comes with a unique story set in a specific time period. These dolls are highly detailed, with rooted hair, sleep eyes, and a wide range of clothing and accessories.
Modern Sizes: 14-inch and 18-inch Dolls
In recent years, American Girl has introduced two new sizes to their doll collection: 14-inch and 22-inch dolls.
14-inch Dolls
The 14-inch dolls, known as "WellieWishers," are designed for younger children, typically aged 5 to 7. They are smaller and less expensive than the traditional 18-inch dolls, but they still come with their own storylines and accessories. The WellieWishers dolls are known for their whimsical style and vibrant colors.

22-inch Dolls
The 22-inch dolls, introduced in 2018, are the largest in the American Girl collection. They are part of the "Truly Me" line, which allows children to create their own doll that looks like them. The 22-inch dolls are highly customizable, with a wide range of skin tones, eye colors, hair colors and styles, and facial features.
Doll Size Comparison
Here's a quick comparison of the different American Girl doll sizes:
| Doll Size | Age Range | Price Range | Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| 9-inch | 3-7 | $20-$40 | Bitty Baby |
| 14-inch | 5-7 | $60-$80 | WellieWishers |
| 18-inch | 8+ | $120-$150 | Historical Characters, Truly Me |
| 22-inch | 8+ | $120-$150 | Truly Me |
Understanding the different American Girl doll sizes can help you choose the perfect doll for your child or your collection. Whether you're looking for a smaller, more affordable doll or a highly detailed, customizable doll, American Girl has an option for you.