How did Disney come up with the Minnie "N' Me line in the 90's?

[DodgerGirl]

In 1990 Minnie Mouse was given a 90's update to attract girls with the debut of the Minnie "N" Me line and I am curious how this line got started? Because the Minnie "N" Me line was seen on books TV series toys music albums and more and I always thought Disney was trying to appeal to the older girls by giving Minnie a whole 90's image because this line was very popular along with the Disney Princess line during the 1990's

 

[Kooks and Bay Bay]

If I had to guess I'd say it was inspired by "My Bubby" from the 80's.