The Barbiecore Trend Is Just Getting Started: Here Are the Best Pieces to Shop
The phrase “getting dolled up” has a whole new meaning.
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The phrase “getting dolled up” has a whole new meaning thanks to the emergence of Barbiecore, a trend that embodies the bright, sparkly, pink-laden style of the iconic character. Having first popped up on social media, the look embraces the bold silhouettes and colors of the ‘80s all the way through the early 2000s. “We have definitely seen a lot of bright colored, sexier and quirkier styles,” says Tiffany Hsu, Vice President of Womenswear & Kidswear Fashion Buying at Mytheresa.
On-set snapshots of Greta Gerwig’s upcoming Barbie film earlier this summer fueled interest in the trend. “Searches for 'Barbiecore' started to rise in the second week of June, after the reveal of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling’s fluorescent, ‘80s Barbie vibe, and have increased 5 times since then,” according to Swasti Sarna, Global Director of Data Insights at Pinterest.
But, as Hsu notes, the soaring popularity of the look shouldn't be attributed solely to the film. “I don’t think the trend of hot pink is related only to the movie,” she says. “Pink has always been a trend and a very strong color and the Valentino pink invented by Pierpaolo [Piccioli] really sent a big message to the overall trends.”
If diving into a full, head-to-toe pink look isn’t for you, but you’re still curious about how to embrace the style, Hsu recommends starting with the feet. “Sparkly shoes from Amina Muaddi and Mach & Mach, but also platform shoes by the likes of Valentino and Versace will be the easiest way to get into this trend,” she suggests, “combined with a cool mini dress or short skirt.” She also recommends embracing bold colors (aside from just pink) as a playful nod to the look—try a bright aqua or neon green as alternatives.
Ahead, find five key ways to embrace the Barbiecore trend, from the subtle(ish) to statement-making, head-to-toe pink.
Sparkly Accessories
Don’t shy away from a little sparkle. A shimmery accessory alludes to the plastic sheen of Barbie, as well as her typically glamorous sense of style. Try pairing these picks with denim and a tee for a more casual look, or style with a fitted dress for a night out.
Amina Muaddi Gilda PVC Mules
Prada Re-Edition 2000 Sequined Re-Nylon Mini Bag
Roxanne Assoulin The Solitaire Necklace
Mach & Mach Triple Bow Leather Baguette Medium Bag
The Minidress
There’s no single item that feels quite as fitting for the trend as a bold, pink minidress. If you’re wanting to put together a full-on Barbiecore look, this is the place to start. Add shimmery flourishes and coordinated heels to finish.
Mugler Paneled Bustier Minidress
Reformation Aubree Linen Dress
Danielle Guizio Beaded Mini Dress
Jonathan Simkhai Aulora Cotton Poplin Dress
Pops of Pink
If going full Elle Woods isn’t for you, try starting things off by adding a single pink item to a more casual, everyday ensemble. “Statement pieces like a bright pink top with muted shoes or jeans can be a good starting point to incorporate the trend into your wardrobe,” suggests Hsu.
Valentino Garavani Medium Roman Stud Shoulder Bag
J.Crew Ribbed flare midi skirt
Jacquemus Noué Cropped Twisted Linen-Blend Top
The Last Line Ruby Teardrop Earring in Pink Sapphire
‘80s Influence
The ‘80s have served as a major era of influence in modern collections from iconic labels like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. To cherry-pick the best Barbie-inspired styles currently making a comeback, look for bold colors and playful textures, all with a feminine twist.
Isabel Marant Étoile Vayoneo Jeans
Skin Tight
For Tsu, the evolution of Barbiecore involves moving beyond the signature pop of pink for a riff on sleek, plastic design. “Soon, we will see even more Spandex and Lycra with bodysuits becoming a mainstream trend too,” she predicts.
