What is Barbiecore?
Barbiecore is a phenomenon which refers to a style, fashion and interiors trend inspired by the mostly-pink 80’s Barbie aesthetic. It plays homage to the iconic dolls’ larger-than-life spirit, whimsical textures and classic luxury but is of course also, fun, plastic and fantastic!
This trend isn’t exactly new, but after the recent release of the new Greta Gerwig’s “Barbie” movie starring Margot Robbie everyone’s gone Barbiecore crazy. And the pink palette is officially back on trend, showing up in both the fashion and interior design worlds (and in doing so, created a shortage of pink paint!).
The Barbie Trend
The foundation of the Barbie trend is a whole lot of different shades of pinks. From blush rose to bright fuchsia. Meshed together with other soft pastels, a splash of glitter, metallic accents and a few pops of bold neon colours. This refreshingly unique and fun design trend really does celebrate the joy, glamour and positive character of Barbie herself. And appears not to be going away anytime soon.
Here are a few tips to help you embrace the latest Barbiecore aesthetic into your home. Think sophisticated pinks with Barbie Dreamhouse vibes.
Embrace Colour
This doesn’t mean painting the whole interior of your home pink. For some subtle colour you could consider introducing some soft candy-coloured pastels to the walls of your rooms. This will inject some playfulness to your spaces while keeping them calming and relaxing. Think mint greens, gentle aquas and subtle yellows.
If painting all your walls colourful pastels is still a little too much, then concentrate the colour on your accessories and soft furnishing. Switch up your bedding or scatter cushions for something abit more exciting and fun. Also, swapping your towels and artwork can also bring abit of Barbiecore into your space without being overwhelming.
Another way to show your love of Barbie pink could be by painting your front door. From a soft rose pink to bright fuchsia – whichever shade you decide to go with it will be sure to brighten your exterior.
If you prefer stronger colours and want to make an impact by all means go for the vibrant yellows, pinks and blues. Bright colours on your walls will provide plenty of stimulation and excitement. Contrast with pops of colour in your accessories and artwork.
Think Pink
However, if pinks are where your heart lies then there are some key design principles to follow. You want to achieve a perfect balance of pink without it being sugary and overpowering.
Layering different shades of pinks with plenty of pattern and texture will help keep things interesting and 3-dimentional.
Also, pairing pink with a contrasting colour will always provide a great outcome, providing the right colour is selected. The classic pink and white combination will provide some sophistication and keep things light and airy.
Create a little luxury and opulence by adding some metallic accessories and finishes. Or introduce some greens to create a refreshing contrast.
Textures And Frills
To sprinkle your home with some quintessential Barbie drama dot around some luxurious fabrics such as velvet, tulle and faux fur.
Barbie is all about being super-girly! So a fluffy, pink faux-fur covered bench seat with gilded gold legs will instantly add some Barbiecore style to your bedroom or walk-in robe. Or a beautiful fuchsia pink velvet couch will make a statement while exuding luxury, opulence and playfulness.
Add other feminine touches such as lace, ribbons and bows to soft furnishings and accessories. Use those vintage pink candlestick holders you found in an op-shop or that huge pink planter pot you’ve been hanging onto! Don’t be afraid to introduce bold statements and patterns. Barbie is a maximalist, so have some fun being creative in your home.
In saying that, while mixing styles and patterns is fun, it can also become a ‘hot mess’ fairly quickly. To ensure this doesn’t happen, keep in mind that a successfully styled room is one that is unified, balanced and cohesive. You want to achieve a harmonious space that is also interesting and playful. Anchoring your room around a particular focal point will help keep you on track. Choose a statement piece such as a rug, wallpaper or piece of art and keep everything centred around that.
All Out There Barbiecore
If you want to go all in then think about installing new kitchen cabinetry in a soft pastel hue and contrast with beautiful brass, copper or gold handles and tapware. Pink cabinetry can be paired with whites or neutrals to bring a light and airy contemporary spin on the retro Barbie style.
Or if you don’t want to change your cabinetry, then maybe get yourself some shiny new pastel-coloured appliances instead. Items such as your fridge, kettle, coffee machine and toaster will add that pop of playfulness and give your kitchen a real Barbicore vibe.
Consider making a statement with a big, glitzy chandelier or with a beautiful plush tufted velvet bedhead and bright pink slipper chair. Add a little sparkle and fun into your bathroom with a shiny splashback or feature tile.
Unleash You Creativity & Put Your Own Personal Spin On This Trend
Embracing the Barbiecore aesthetic is all about playfulness, joy, elegance and creativity. This can be achieved inexpensively, sustainably and with your own personal spin on things.
You don’t need to spend a fortune and buy everything brand new. Do a stocktake of you home and see where you can reuse or upcycle some old furniture pieces. Grab some self-adhesive wallpaper to give that old bookshelf a ‘Barbie’ makeover and a new lease of life. Paint the dining room chairs in a fresh new pastel colour, or two!
Be unapologetically yourself and infuse your home with elements that bring happiness and make you smile. Afterall, the Barbiecore trend is all about individualism and standing out. You can turn your home into an elegant, aesthetically pleasing retreat by using colour creatively and focusing on well-curated furniture pieces and eye-catching statement pieces.
Embrace the power of pink and enjoy creating a home full of joy, colour, elegance and playfulness. The perfect home for a modern-day Barbie!
For help of advice regarding any residential or commercial design or decorating projects click here to book your free 15-minute discussion with Robyn.
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