Barbiecore: Barbie Style for the Everyday
Over the last few years, we’ve seen a resurgence of Y2K fashion trends, maximalism, and colourful styles. A byproduct of this is Barbiecore, a fashion aesthetic that’s currently making waves and is inspired by the iconic doll Barbara Millicent Roberts - yes that’s her full name. After Valentino’s entirely hot pink fashion show in autumn of 2022, and with the upcoming Barbie (2023) movie, it’s no surprise that Barbiecore has been on the rise. This aesthetic has been embraced by designers, influencers, and celebrities alike; and while elements of the style might be unrealistic for the everyday gal, there are ways to enjoy this fashion trend and translate it into a more timeless capsule.
What is Barbiecore?
To dive more deeply into this aesthetic, Barbiecore is a playful and colourful style, incorporating all shades of pink, with the inclusion of pastels, some neons, and bold prints. There are typically retro-inspired elements, paying homage to Barbie's origins in the 1950s. Inspired by the dreamy, hyper-feminine world that Barbie inhabits, everything is meant to be pink, sparkly, and glamourous. This style celebrates female empowerment and self-expression. As Barbie says, “be who you wanna be!”
Gerwig's films often touch upon themes of self-discovery, independence, and the pursuit of dreams; and at the heart of Barbiecore lies the belief that femininity should be celebrated in all of its forms. It rejects the notion that femininity is a weakness, instead embracing it as an empowering force. The aesthetic encourages this through bold colors, playful prints, and statement pieces that exude confidence and individuality. As we eagerly await the upcoming film, I have no doubt that Gerwig’s Barbie will transcend the superficial, inspiring a new generation to embrace their personal style, and in turn, rewrite the rules of fashion. So embrace Barbiecore, and join in the reshaping of the fashion landscape, one fabulous pink outfit at a time.
Colour Palette
The Barbiecore colour palette ranges from pastel hues and candy colors to neon brights. If you’re wanting to embrace this trend to the fullest, electric colours are the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a more timeless spin, I’ve also included a more subdued example. Either way, these colours are fun, playful, and exude a sense of whimsy.
Pink (in all shades, from blush to hot pink)
Pastels (including lavender, mint green, baby blue, and lemon yellow)
Bold prints (such as polka dots, stripes, and florals)
Candy-colored hues (such as bubblegum pink, mint green, and lemon yellow)
here are my top pieces to shop for:
base pieces
babydoll dress - a classic Barbiecore staple. Babydoll dresses with puffy sleeves are a nod to Barbie's origins: they’re cute, girly, and evoke a sense of nostalgia.
high-waisted shorts - a must-have for summer. They’re a versatile and practical base piece for some of the more fun items on this list.
mini dress - playful, flirty, and feminine; an a-line midi would be a great alternative that gives 1950s Barbie if you’re not as comfortable with the mini.
crop top - this pairs perfectly with high waisted bottoms. Another great jumping off point for all your Barbie-inspired looks.
bodysuit - Margot Robbie already looks iconic from the sneak previews in her ‘80s-inspired rollerblading ensemble.
the iconic black & white swimsuit - perhaps the most recognizable Barbie outfit of all time. It was introduced in 1959 and has remained a classic ever since.
halter top - in the ‘70s, Barbie embraced the laid-back California lifestyle with her "Malibu Barbie" look. The outfit featured a halter top, and has since become a Barbie staple.
biker shorts - for a sporty athleisure casual. Barbie has an outfit for everything.
bodycon dress - to be worn for more glamorous occasions or a night out. Look for one in vibrant colors or prints.
playsuit - also known as a romper. It’s such a fun piece, it’s in the name.
mini skirt - a staple of Barbiecore, whether in denim or faux leather.
blouse - a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down and is a Barbiecore basic.
faux fur jacket - the perfect statement piece for a cold-weather look.
cropped cardigan - great for layering, and works well with there rest of this capsule.
the pink power suit - Barbie has always been a fan of power dressing. Barbie’s iconic suit was introduced in the ‘80s and has remained a classic ever since. Whether you go for a pantsuit or a skirt ensemble, utilize the separates and build new outfits off of them.
the prom dress - Barbie and Ken have been attending prom together since the ‘60s, and their prom outfits have always been very on-trend. Even if you’re far past the point of going to prom, take inspiration from the red carpet - Barbie style - for your next event.
track suit - on a casual and cozy day in, Barbie would opt for a trendy track suit. She’s basically the spokesperson for Juicy Couture (along with Paris Hilton).
low rise jeans - I know, I know, I don’t want it either. But they have made a bit of a come back (for the younger generation at least), and I don’t really think Barbie ever gave them up. Mid-rise works well too for the rest of us.
denim jacket - opt for a classic indigo wash for a more timeless look, or try something with a little embroidery, bedazzle, or fringe in a bright colour if you fully want to commit to the aesthetic.
flare pants - a nod to retro styles, while also totally on trend. Look for flare pants in bold colors or with retro-inspired prints.
cape coat - a perfect winter edition to the Barbiecore style, a cape coat is feminine and a little vintage.
jumpsuit - a one-piece wonder.
accessories
heart-shaped sunglasses - a playful and girly accessory that is oh-so Barbie.
bucket hat - a fun and playful Y2K accessory that has made a comeback.
headband - a nod to some classic Barbie looks.
sunhat - a stylish and practical accessory for sunny days. Barbie lives in Malibu, after all.
scrunchie - adds a pop of colour to any hairstyle. Let’s be real, Barbie would have all the hair clips and bows too.
fluffy clutch - adds a touch of Barbiecore to any outfit. Honestly if you wanted to just wear casual, everyday clothes, you could totally just utilize fun accessories to make the outfit have more of a Barbie vibe.
statement jewelry - for an extra Barbiecore look, try playful motifs, such as hearts, stars, and rainbows. If you’re looking for a more timeless Barbie look, opt for pearls!
colourful or patterned tights - perfect for adding some playfulness to your outfit. They also allow you to take some of those more summery hemlines into the fall and winter.
vibrant crossbody bags - the accessories are the place to play. In my opinion, statement accessories rarely go out of style, and are just a way to infuse personality into a look.
high socks - opt for knee-high or thigh-high socks in fun colors or patterns. They can be worn with skirts, dresses, or shorts, and even paired with leggings for that Totally Eighties vibe.
beret - a classic and sophisticated accessory that Barbie would wear to elevate her look and exude an air of elegance.
shoes
platform sandals - perfect for adding some height and a touch of glamour to any look. Look for ones with retro-inspired details.
fluffy heels - did we all just gasp when Barbie’s iconic bent foot appeared on screen wearing the fluffy pink heels during the trailer? Just me? okay.
ballet flats - as these are making a comeback, I thought I would include them. There is quite a bit of crossover between Barbiecore and Ballerinacore, so it just makes sense.
uggs - bonus points if they’re sparkly.
platform heels - this is the Barbiecore piece that has been spotted most frequently in the fashion world. All the celebs have been on board!
cowboy boots - there is something just so essentially Barbiecore with a colourful Western ensemble. Perhaps avoid wearing with a matching cowboy hat and fringed jacket if you don’t want to look too costume-y. Or do - if that’s your thing.
wedge sneakers - Barbie is always on the go, and wedge sneakers add a sporty and edgy vibe while maintaining Barbie’s foot structure.
Typically I share 10 items per season in my -core aesthetic breakdowns (see Coastal Grandmother or Cottagecore if those are more your vibe), but it just wasn’t happening with Barbiecore. Let me know if you prefer the essentials list laid out in this new categorical way or by season!
Barbie’s outfits have truly become iconic classics over the years, and her fashion sense has always been on-trend. Whether it's swimwear, a ball gown, or a power suit, her fashion choices have always been an inspiration to fashionistas around the world. Embrace your individuality, and express yourself through bold and playful Barbiecore styles. With the upcoming Barbie movie and the continued popularity of the aesthetic, it’s clear that Barbie is back and here to stay. So, whether you want to add a touch of glamour to your wardrobe or fully embrace your inner Barbie, now is the time to do it.
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