It's a Barbieworld This Summer

A new era of Barbiecore has us all feeling very… pink.

Margot Robbie on set of Greta Gerwig’s *Barbie*

What really kicked off the start of this pink-infused Barbie summer was the announcement of Greta Gerwig’s live-action Barbie film – even though it’s set to release in 2023. Starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling as Barbie and Ken, it’s no wonder fans began getting restless with anticipation and excitement.

Not without controversy, Barbie has always held space in fashion and influenced a distinct type of style and aesthetic. Making her original debut all the way back in 1959, the doll was always meant to double as a type of role model for kids. But the inspiration came from Lilli, a sexy German doll based off of a comic strip that was marketed as a gag gift for men! Over the years, she’s donned over 200 different looks, replicating a myriad of real-life personas and careers.

Beyond her many professional get-ups, Barbie has always been closely linked to fashion and styling. In the days before Fashionscapes and other virtual dress-up games, the doll was the closest thing a kid could get to styling their own fashion avatar. She was the gateway for many children to start experimenting with clothes and fashion. Oftentimes serving as inspiration for style choices later in life.

And let’s not forget about the grown-ups! Barbie’s likeness to a real life mannequin has inspired many a designer to create clothes either for her or based on her – the latter of which we’re seeing in full force this summer. In the case of the former, Barbie has partnered up with the likes of Ralph Lauren, Burberry, and costume designer Bob Mackie to create limited edition, “haute couture” fashions for the doll.

Barbie is both a muse and a unique reflection of our inner kid. Many people have fond memories of spending hours playing with their Barbies. This makes it no surprise that she continues to be an influential (albeit freakishly proportioned) figure in the fashion world. Her style will always exude confidence and a bold, youthful/carefree feeling.

Barbie is ever-evolving to reflect the current fashion and pop culture trends. At a time when much is unknown, it can be comforting to throw on some rose colored glasses and immerse yourself in the bright and hopeful themes Barbiecore brings.

*From left to right* – Kacey Musgraves, Anne Hathaway, Zendaya, Florence Pugh, Megan Fox (getty images)

A lot of celebrities have been channeling their inner Barbie this summer, bringing elements of their own personal style to the look, but ALWAYS including her signature hot pink – obviously.

If you, too, want to be decked out in bold pink and radiate the fun and playful aesthetic of Barbie herself, shop our sustainable Barbiecore picks below!