How to Embrace Barbiecore, Fashion’s Most Playful Trend

By: Tajiya Holland

Barbiecore has made pink the hottest color of the summer season. The aesthetic is simple—anything pink that looks like it came straight out of the Mattel doll’s closet. To some, a head-to-toe outfit of pink can be overwhelming, but this trend brings a lighthearted, playful side to fashion.

We first witnessed an abundance of fuchsia on the runway during the Valentino Fall 2022 fashion show in March. Designer and creative director Pier Paolo Piccioli intended for viewers to distinguish silhouette and detail by creating eighty monotone looks (forty-eight being fuchsia). The collection quickly made its way from the runway to red carpets worn by several A-list celebrities.

Another huge influencer of fashion’s pink wave is the new live-action film, Barbie. Although the film has yet to release, there has been plenty of social media hype thanks to behind-the-scene photos of Margot Robbie (Barbie) and Ryan Gosling (Ken) wearing neon pink athletic and western costumes in Venice Beach, California. It’s safe to bet we’ll see the two in pink galore until the Hollywood movie hits the big screens.

Like any fashion trend, you can get creative, tweak it to your liking, and make it your own. Prefer a pastel bubble gum over a bright, bold pink? Wear that instead. Present a flirtatious look with a corset mini dress or a textured cropped top paired with white jeans. Wear an A-line dress paired with a chic blazer, and for shoes, skinny strap sandals or knee-high boots.

Both maximalists and minimalists can enjoy the Barbiecore aesthetic. A preppy and sporty manner can be achieved with a polo and shorts, as classic button-up exudes sleek chic. Florals matched with pleats appear romantic, and pattern mixing presents an art style. The versatility is endless. The color pink symbolizes playfulness and love, likewise is the summer season. How will you incorporate the color into your outfits?