How The New Barbie Film Will Change The Way We Wear Pink

 

Pink has taken the world by storm, and the fashion industry couldn’t be more delighted with the Barbicore renaissance. The “girly” color has undergone a magical transformation, now symbolizing a thrilling rebellion, and this audaciousness is celebrated in the newly released “Barbie” film. Barbie is a cinematic extravaganza that showcases groundbreaking and chic ways of incorporating pink into outfits, encouraging viewers to play with various shades of pink hue and ingenious combinations.

Starring Margot Robbie and skillfully directed by the visionary Greta Gerwig, “Barbie” delves deep into Barbie’s intrinsic connection with the color pink. The film’s artistic brilliance shines through the work of ingenious set designers who skillfully paint the screen with an exquisite palette featuring 100 different shades of pink, sparking a global frenzy and an unexpected surge in demand for pink paint. The movie’s promotion leaves no corner untouched, as the delightful hue pervades everything from eye-catching billboards and stylish buses to the cast’s stunning pink carpet ensembles.

The phenomenon goes beyond the silver screen, as a real-life Barbie Dreamhouse emerges on Airbnb, inviting fans to experience the magic in person. Over 100 brand collaborations further contribute to the sensation, while a remarkable Google search page takeover solidifies Barbie’s pink world domination.

First introduced in 1959 by the visionary Ruth Handler and presented by the renowned toy company Mattel, Barbie made her grand entrance adorned in a chic black-and-white striped swimsuit, wrapped in packaging characterized by a monochromatic palette.

As the swinging 60s took over, Mattel decided to experiment with Barbie’s image, and as her popularity soared, so did the demand for an array of accessories, clothing, and playsets. Barbie’s licensed products showcased a delightful array of colors, featuring doll cases, book bags, stationery, and clothing. While it’s true that some of the most cherished designs of that era had a rosy touch, like the satin Vivienne Westwood dress that Robbie wore to Barbie’s London premiere, inspired by the classic 1960s Enchanted Evening Barbie outfit, it’s worth noting that pink wasn’t always Barbie’s sole preference.

The psychedelic 70s witnessed a significant shift in Barbie’s world, where pink took over as the reigning queen of her domain. Fondly remembered as the “Pink Barbie” era, the color adorned every facet of her Dreamhouse, as well as her chic outfits and fashionable accessories. Pink’s presence in Barbie’s branding and packaging cemented the doll’s inseparable link with the mesmerizing hue.

Beyond mere aesthetics, pink played a pivotal role in shaping Barbie’s identity and character. The vivacious color perfectly encapsulated Barbie’s avant-garde and glamorous lifestyle, captivating the hearts of countless young girls who aspired to emulate her brilliance.

As Barbie’s star continued to ascend, she transformed into an enduring symbol of beauty and girlhood. Pink, by extension, became a powerful emblem of femininity, enchantment, and grace, forever entwined with Barbie’s legacy.

With the passage of time, Barbie gracefully evolved, mirroring shifting societal norms and the call for diversity and inclusivity. While the classic pink Barbie remains an icon, newer versions of her embody a broader spectrum of styles, skin tones, body types, and career aspirations, embracing an all-encompassing and progressive approach.

The conventional association of pink with femininity has encountered exciting challenges as individuals increasingly express themselves beyond traditional gender norms. The film magnificently embraces this movement, emphasizing that pink is a color that knows no bounds, transcending gender and embracing everyone.

As the new Barbie film exudes its mesmerizing charm on the silver screen, real-world fashion designers find themselves enchanted by its allure. Inspired by the film’s aesthetics and color palette, these ingenious artists have spun collections and designs that pay homage to this radiant pink renaissance, birthing a tidal wave of pink-infused “Barbicore” masterpieces in the fashion industry.

Barbie’s formidable presence in the digital realm further fuels the fashion frenzy, as influencers and enthusiasts clamor to share their vibrant pink-themed outfits and styles across social media platforms, igniting a dazzling resurgence of pink’s reign in fashion culture.

For the rest of us, what truly defines Barbiecore though? Is it simply wearing an abundance of pink? Well, yes! This is because the vibrant hue shines brightest when embraced fully. Pierpaolo Piccioli of Valentino highlighted this when he unveiled his autumn/winter 2022 Valentino collection at Paris Fashion Week.

Pink-themed fashion may not be a new development, but the way we perceive, Barbie and her signature color has evolved over the years. Nowadays, the notion of being a Barbie extends to everyone, fostering a sense of inclusivity that was previously lacking. Pink is no longer confined to stereotypes; it’s now a means of expressing style, communication, and attitude. If you adore a playful touch (who doesn’t?), then pink might just be your perfect match.

Photo: Styledumonde