IT'S A BARBIE WORLD:
Every few years, a trend emerges that completely shuts down the fashion world. It dominates our Instagram feeds, fills collections, and is worn by everyone. It surpasses the term trend and becomes more akin to a movement. Right now, we’re living in one of those movements. The movement of pink.
From Jacquemus’ Pink 2 collection back in 2021 to Valentino’s internet-breaking Pink PP collection for AW22 and of course, the hotly anticipated Barbie movie and the subsequent explosion of the Barbiecore trend, we’re only three years into the 2020s, but so far, they’ve been completely dominated by pink appeal. To date, #pink has 45 billion views on TikTok, (#barbie has 46.1 billion and the accompanying #barbicore has 513.2 million). The verdict is in: pink is the colour you need to work into your wardrobe.
So, the big question. How do you style pink this season? Really, you can do it however you want. Head-to-toe hot pink? That works. Slinky party tops in shimmering bubblegum? We’re into that. A subtle touch of rosy blush? We’re more than on board. Overwhelmed by pink-mania? We’ve pulled together the ultimate guide to the key pink buys for the season. From Prada and Miu Miu to Off-White and Ambush, these are the pink styles to add to your wardrobe this season.
We’re willing to bet that this selection of ultra ‘90s pink shoulder bags would make even Carrie Bradshaw jealous. Miu Miu’s Woven Hobo Bag in soft pastel pink is a masterclass in how to make a classic feel cult, while Marine Serre have given their signature moon monogram the It bag treatment. For all the Y2K girlies out there, Prada has you covered with the Raffia Re-Edition Shoulder Bag. A unique design, it features a pink-and-white check, complete with the classic triangle emblem and a slick metal strap. While Jacquemus Bambimou Bag is pink, puffy and playful, making it perfect for all the Barbies among us.
The next pink piece to add to your Barbie bag? A little pink party top. Starting with, the pink Prada bralette worn by Margot Robbie on the Barbie press tour. Ft. a classic gingham design, it goes big on retro appeal (and there’s a mini skirt to match). Living for the naked dressing trend? Lean in to barely-there appeal with Saint Laurent’s monogram bralette. In an ultra-bright shade of fuchsia, it’s a serious scene stealer. And if you feel like dancing the night away, Saks Potts have created the perfect companion with the Anouk top. A sleeveless halter neck with a strappy fastening, it’s finished with shimmering sequins for all-out party appeal.
Ambush have delivered the streetwear sets’ answer to pink with the Leather Cushion Mules. In a glossy blush, sat upon a circular heel and finished with open-toe detailing, they’re a unique option that’ll instantly elevate any outfit. Looking for something different? Versace’s heeled mules in eye-wateringly bright magenta, complete with gold hardware and a Medusa emblem, will do the trick. Meanwhile, Jimmy Choo and Valentino have delivered pretty-in-pink mules sat on ultra-low heels that were made for day-to-night dressing. And if you’re really feeling it? Christian Louboutin’s fluorescent pink mules are next level. After all, life in Louboutin is fantastic.
Glowy skin, glossy lips, rosy cheeks: Barbie-fied beauty is well and truly, in. And this is how to do it. Charlotte Tilbury’s Pillow Talk Dreams Palette features four super pigmented shades, from soft neutrals to shimmering brights, so you can build and blend out your very own pink rainbow. Gucci Beauty’s Blush De Beauté comes in a range of shades, from subtle apricots to vivid roses, making it the perfect way to add a pop of pink blush to your makeup looks. As for your lips? Go in on gloss with Jimmy Choo’s Seduction Gloss in Fuchsia Glow or opt for a statement-making pink lip thanks to Kylie Cosmetics' Lip Blush in Cherry. And if you’re really feeling it? Cover yourself in M.A.C’s pink glitter, simply because you can.
The colour-pop sneaker has long been a staple of the streetwear set. But in 2023, there’s a new kick to get on board with: the Barbie-fied sneaker. Top of our list? Off-White’s cult Out Of Office sneakers in three-toned pink. Architects of the Barbiecore trend, Valentino have naturally supplied the ultimate pink trainer with the One Studs. In bold Valentino PP Pink, they’re enough to bring you into the Barbie army. Looking for a subtler touch? Prada’s Double Wheel Sneakers in soft, baby pink give a retro, sports-club-cool vibe thanks to the contrast lacing and thick, platform sole.
Tiny mini dresses, statement prints, cult detailing: allow us to introduce you to the Barbie-doll dress. Think of it as the LBD’s fun-loving, flirty cousin. The key picks this season? Pucci’s Print Crepe Dress for one. In a classic slip-dress silhouette, ft. an all-over abstract print, it’s like Barbie, by way of the ‘90s club scene. Roberta Einer’s Angel dress lives up to its name. Sheer, sexy and nearly naked in a fruity shade of peach, it’s a big Barbie mood. Subtle and silky, Prada’s Pink Satin Dress is cut to an ultra-mini length and finished with the brand’s cult triangle emblem. Pretty in Prada does have a certain ring to it.
Glam, glitzy and girly: as far as the Barbie aesthetic goes, a little pink bag is non-negotiable. And these four are the best in the business. Top of our list? A Vivienne Westwood clutch. In a shimmering shade of metallic magenta, complete with clasp detailing, a slinky strap and orb detailing, it goes big on party-ready appeal. For a Y2K touch, opt for a tiny top-handle bag, like Alexander Wang’s Scrunchie mini or Jacquemus’ cult Chiquito. And if you’re searching for a heavy-metal hitter, Paco Rabanne’s 1969 Nano Bag in baby pink chain mail will do the trick.
The ultimate Barbie-girl essential? A pair of bright pink shades. After all, Ryan Gosling, wore not one, but two pairs – at once – in the trailer for the movie. So, one thing’s clear: this Barbie needs UV protection. The key styles to know? Alexander McQueen’s bubble-gum Cat Eyes for one. Saint Laurent’s Sunrise Sunglasses deliver huge ‘90s appeal, while Off-White’s chunky Catalina Sunglasses go big on streetwear appeal. Looking to take things to the next level? Chloe’s scalloped-edge sunnies embody ‘70s-era, flower-power style.