By now you’re likely familiar with the ‘Barbiecore’ fashion trend.
Even if it doesn’t ring a bell, you will have recently encountered some form of vibrant, bold, hot pink, head-to-toe ensemble that looks like something the famous doll might once have worn, and where the name stems from.
Be it on the runway, red carpet, social media or the street, pink is red hot.
Arguably it started on the Fall Winter 2022-23 fashion runway at Paris Fashion Week. Valentino presented an entire collection – Valentino Pink PP – created by creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli in a particular shade of almost-neon pink. Beyond the outfits, the shoes, bags, makeup and even runway and seating were all presented in pink.
Since then a plethora of celebrities have been seen in the Pink PP collection, in particular at the 2022 Met Gala, but also for other press appearances. From Zendaya to Glenn Close, Lizzo, Gillian Anderson, Florence Pugh, Drew Barrymore and Naomi Campbell, the list goes on.
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The trend was further cemented in June when pictures emerged of Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in character playing the famous dolls Barbie and Ken, in Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated live-action Barbie film, set to be released in 2023.
Over the northern summer the trend has snowballed into a frothy and fun obsession with pink fashion in all its forms, suitable for festivals and black tie events alike. From platform heels and hair accessories to cropped separates and sequined minis, the era of Barbiecore certainly looks set to continue for our just-arriving spring and summer season.
The mood-boosting hue is just the thing for a bit of fun in undeniably challenging times. It certainly runs parallel to the ‘Dopamine dressing’ approach, where bold hues are worn with the intention they help the wearer feel more confident, competent, or happy.
But what’s interesting is how the initial Barbiecore trend, which simply involved clothing, has evolved into a pink renaissance in beauty too.
Rest assured it doesn’t have to be as bold as the fashion approach, but you’ll likely notice small touches of pink popping up everywhere currently.
L-R: Benefit Gogotint Cheek & Lip Tint; MAC Cosmetics Powderkiss Lipstick in Velvet Punch; Too Faced Lip Injection Extreme Instant & Long Term Plumper in Strawberry Kiss; Stila Shimmer & Glow Liquid Eye Shadow in Daring; Dior Backstage Rosy Glow Blush; Rare Beauty Lip Soufflé Matte Lip Cream in Ascend
Pink lipstick is the easiest way to dip a toe (or lip!) into the trend. Nude and rose pinks are now being joined by brighter hues, as a bold lip gains the prediction for summer’s hottest lip look.
A glossy pout with a slick of shimmery pink is another way to complement a very bright pink ensemble.
The return of blush certainly owes a little to Barbie’s permanently-flushed cheeks, and there are so many different textures and shades to try right now. A cooler, mauve-y pink is the doll’s go-to hue but we love a sheer dewy watermelon flush too.
A touch of pink shimmer on your eyes is one way celebrities have embraced a playful hit of sparkle with the look. Don’t forget to finish with lashings of black mascara.
Finally, the candy-hue hair trend has been bubbling under for a year or two. Now, it’s set to hit fever pitch, thanks to Barbiecore as well as the arrival of newer rinse-out hair tints or short-lived toners providing the perfect one-weekend-only option for those wanting to have a little fun.
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Images (top): @patrickta; @valentino.beauty; @clarissalunanyc; @lizzobeeating
