From her iconic pink dream house to strutting down the runway, Barbie has been a trendsetter and style icon like no other. Today, let’s look at the evolution of Barbie fashion, from her early days to the rise of the fashion-forward Barbiecore movement and how this iconic trend has taken over wardrobes and runways alike.
Image used for representational purposes only.
Barbie’s Evolution
In 1959, Barbie burst onto the scene, capturing hearts with her impeccable style. Created by Ruth Handler, Barbie embodied the epitome of glamour and fashion-forwardness. Her early ensembles showcased the fashion trends of the time, from elegant cocktail dresses to tailored suits, setting the stage for the Barbie fashion empire to come. As the decades passed, Barbie's wardrobe evolved alongside the ever-changing fashion landscape. From the swinging '60s to the disco-loving '70s and the vibrant '80s, Barbie donned outfits that reflected the spirit of each era. Whether she was rocking bell bottoms or power suits, Barbie was always ahead of the fashion curve.
Image Source: Ebay.com
More recently, the popular doll has made significant strides in becoming more progressive and inclusive, reflecting the changing times and celebrating diversity. Barbie, who was initially more often a blonde-haired doll with the quintessential “thin” figure which was once deemed ideal for women, has now transformed. The introduction of dolls with different body types, such as curvy, petite, and tall as well as versions representing different ethnicities across the globe showcased Barbie's commitment to representing a wider range of beauty standards. Moreover, Barbie’s collaboration with influential figures like Olympic athlete Ibtihaj Muhammad and actress Yara Shahidi, created dolls that inspire and empower people from all backgrounds. By embracing inclusivity and breaking barriers, Barbie has become a symbol of acceptance and representation in the toy industry as well as in pop culture.
Image used for representational purposes only.
Today’s Barbie & Fashion
In recent years Barbie has made a triumphant return to the fashion scene, inspiring a movement known as Barbiecore. This trend has taken the fashion world by storm, with pink becoming a staple hue in 2022. It all started with the highly-anticipated and recently-released Barbie film, which brought pink to the forefront of our fashion consciousness, especially with Margot Robbie capturing the iconic doll's essence on set. The obsession with all things pink only intensified with the release of the official Barbie trailer and released images from the movie. From Barbie's plastic purses to platform pumps (when she's not rollerblading, of course), Barbiecore was undoubtedly set to be the ultimate summer style statement.
Image Source: Uproxx.com
But Barbiecore's influence goes beyond the film. From Pierpaolo Piccioli's all-pink Valentino fashion show that birthed a hot pink Pantone shade to Jeremy Scott's Moschino collection in 2015 that celebrated Barbie's iconic imagery, the influence is felt throughout the industry. More recently, the trend gained momentum after the Valentino Fall runway show in 2022, where the mesmerizing Valentino Pink PP, named after the fashion house's creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli, stole the spotlight. Celebrities have since embraced the popular pigment, donning it on red carpets and festival stages. Barbiecore has even taken TikTok by storm, amassing over 365 million views under the hashtag #Barbiecore. Moreover, according to Lyst's "Year in Fashion" report, Barbiecore topped the trend charts, with a significant surge in searches for pink clothing.
Image Source: thefashionfrill.com
So what is Barbiecore and how to dress like it?
Barbiecore fashion is all about embracing the vibrant, playful, and feminine aesthetic inspired by the iconic Barbie doll. It celebrates the essence of Barbie's timeless style, combining elements of nostalgia, pop culture references, and a touch of modern flair. Here's a breakdown of the Barbiecore aesthetic and how you can incorporate the same in your looks:
Pink, Pink, and More Pink: Barbiecore is synonymous with the colour pink. It's all about embracing various shades of this vibrant hue, from bubblegum pink to hot pink and incorporating it into your outfits, accessories, and even makeup.
Image used for representational purposes only.
Playful Prints and Patterns: Think bold and whimsical prints that exude fun and joy. From polka dots and stripes to gingham and floral motifs, embrace patterns that capture Barbie's cheerful and adventurous spirit.
Image Source: Pinterest
Glamorous Silhouettes: Barbiecore fashion often features glamorous silhouettes that accentuate femininity. From fitted dresses, and tailored separates, to exaggerated details like ruffles, bows, and sequins. Don't shy away from embracing a bit of drama and sparkle.
Image Source: Hollywoodlife.com
Retro Vibes: Nostalgia plays a significant role in Barbiecore fashion, often drawing inspiration from retro eras like the '60s, '70s, and '80s. Incorporate vintage-inspired pieces like high-waisted skirts, wide-leg pants, cat-eye sunglasses, and retro hairstyles to add a touch of nostalgia to your look.
Image Source: Pinterest/etsy
Accessories Galore: Accessories are key to nailing the Barbiecore aesthetic. From oversized statement earrings and chunky necklaces to playful handbags and headbands, embrace accessories that make a bold and playful statement. Don’t forget to add a pair of statement platform pumps to finish the look.
Image Source: Pinterest/bustle
Confidence and Empowerment: Barbiecore fashion is not just about the clothes you wear but also about the attitude you exude. Embrace confidence, self-expression, and a sense of empowerment in your style choices, just like Barbie herself.
Remember, Barbiecore fashion is all about having fun, embracing your individuality, and expressing yourself through bold fashion choices. So, unleash your inner Barbie and let your style shine with the vibrant and playful world of Barbiecore fashion!
Barbiecore Recommendations
1. Fancy Pastels Pre-Loved Dress
Who said you have to buy new to get onto a fresh trend? This pre-loved bright and quirky dress is just perfect to nail Barbiecore! The colours are vibrant, and the silhouette and print are both feminine and fun at the same time, making it a great look just in itself.
Image Source: fancypastels.com
2. Gap X Barbie Denim Jacket
The easiest way to get onto any trend is to add a layer! This pink denim jacket can be a great addition to a casual athleisure-inspired Barbie look as well as a fabulous bodycon dress alike. The best part? Denim is a super sturdy fabric, making sure this jacket will last long in your wardrobe!
Image Source: Ajio.com
3. Indie Picks Sari
Who said you can’t give Barbie-inspired fashion your very own desi twist? Try a casual Barbie look with this cotton sari. Style it with loads of pearls and a wavy pony to nail the look like no other!
Image Source: Ajio.com
4. Saphed Co-ord Set
Image Source: Saphed.com
Hot pink is surely one of the most fabulous hues on the Barbie colour palette and this linen set is just the perfect hot pink! Get your casual Barbie mode on with this set and get creative with some retro accessories to finish the look.
5. Urban Pataka Skirt Set
Image Source: Urbanpataka.com
The tie-dye print and draped detailing of this skirt set can give you a unique, indo-fusion twist for a Barbiecore look. Use hair accessories like hair bands and a pair of platform pumps and you’re good to go!
6. Voyce Necklace
Image Source: Voycejewellery.com
Add a bold pop of colour to any pink-hued outfit with this statement necklace from homegrown brand Voyce and watch your look transform from basic to stylishly Barbiecore!
7. Coach Pre-Loved Bag
Image Source: Theluxurypop.com
There’s nothing that says Barbie better than a mini crossbody bag like this pre-loved one! Finish any casual or chic Barbie look with this one effortlessly.
8. Paio Heels
Accessories can do a lot for your look, especially this pink pair from the vegan shoe brand Paio. Pair this with a simple bodycon dress or a mini skirt set and you’re good to go!
Image Source: Paio.co
Barbie's fashion journey is a testament to her iconic status and cultural influence. From her early days as a fashion trailblazer to her recent resurgence in the Barbiecore movement, Barbie has left an indelible mark on the world of fashion. Her ability to adapt and reflect on the times has made her an eternal symbol of style and empowerment. So, embrace your inner fashionista, and let Barbie inspire you to dream big and dress even bigger!