Think Pink: Rocking the Barbiecore Trend in Your 50s

We certainly weren’t in need of Barbie – The Movie to rock our best pink outfit but the recent rise of the Barbiecore trend, well-documented by celebrities, social media, and influencers, has made us keen on wearing this colour even more.

From shades of watermelon, bubblegum and fuchsia to daring silhouettes, is all about playfulness and dopamine dressing and with the official Barbie trailer released and the theatrical debut just a few days ago, all-things pink is surely here to stay for Summer— with the addition of her iconic accessories, too.

“A much-welcomed mood-booster after the last few years, ‘Barbiecore’ is all about embracing vibrant hues — particularly the doll’s signature hot pink — in everyday life,” Etsy trend expert Dayna Isom Johnson said in a statement to Good Morning America. “And with many nostalgic for simpler, sunnier, and more carefree times, it only makes sense that this ’80s-inspired, unapologetically pink aesthetic is taking centre stage as the ‘it’ style of the summer.“

But how can we embrace the look and avoid the kitch effect when over 50?

In this article, we’ll explore how midlife women can fearlessly rock this trend, embrace their inner Barbie and prove that age is just a number when it comes to style.

What is Barbiecore?

Barbiecore is a fashion trend that draws inspiration from the iconic Barbie doll and most recently from the Greta Gerwig-directed live-action Barbie film starring Margot Robbie.

“The style is all about looking pretty in pink. We’re seeing lots of matching pink sets, monochromatic looks and feminine silhouettes. Brands like Maison Valentino and Miu Miu have also started to incorporate the signature core trend into their fashion lines, embracing colourful prints and textures that incorporate the modern characteristics of Barbiecore,” explains retail and trend expert Nick Drewe.

A trend that has caught the attention of many influential women over 50 like Michelle Obama, Helen Mirren, Iris Apfel and Jane Fonda (all spotted rocking Barbiecore-inspired looks with confidence and grace) and that encourages women to step out of their comfort zones and fully embrace their unique style.

How to incorporate Barbiecore into your wardrobe

Barbiecore basically resembles everything related to the classic ’80s Barbie doll: all things pink, neon accents, and fun accessories. That’s probably why many Gen Xers are effortlessly incorporating this style into their wardrobe this Summer.

It’s all about embracing bold and vibrant colours, playful prints, and statement accessories. It’s a celebration of self-expression, individuality, and breaking free from societal expectations.

Silhouettes range from latex mini dresses to dainty fit-and-flares, while details include everything from feathers to sparkles. Between ultra-high pumps to jelly block heels, shoes vary just like the toy’s endless options. Furthermore, holographic and fluorescent accessories and plastic hair clips make fabulous additions.

If you are unsure how to incorporate the Barbiecore trend into your wardrobe, the easiest way to start is to add small amounts of colour — primarily pink, of course. Experiment with different shades and accessories to find what resonates with your favourite look.

Fashion stylist Emily DeSimone said this can be done without making the overall aesthetic look too much like a Halloween costume, especially if you are not familiar with bright colours. “Accessory pops of Barbie pink are perfect,” she said to The Zoe Report. “You can add a shoe to an outfit or a really cute mini purse.” So even if you want to wear an all-black uniform when you’re out running errands, just a small amount of pink will still do the trick.

In an interview with Elle UK, stylist Sophie Paxton says she’s all for bringing Barbie back to life, but doing it in a way that is most comfortable for you. “If you feel it’s too much for you, you can approach with flashes of colour, like a shirt with a neutral-coloured denim or a punchy pink platform,” she says. “I always love teaming a muted tone with a vibrant one. So with tones of hot pink come red, and with baby pink comes taupe or brown.”

Here are some extra tips to help you channel your inner Barbie with confidence:

1. Play with colours

Barbiecore is all about vibrant and bold colours. Experiment with bright pinks, blues, yellows, and purples to add a playful touch to your outfits. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different colours for a fun and eclectic look.

2. Opt for playful prints

Barbiecore is known for its playful and whimsical prints. Choose clothing items with polka dots, floral prints, or even Barbie-inspired patterns to add a touch of fun to your outfits.

3. Statement accessories

Accessorize your outfits with statement pieces such as a cute hat, chunky jewellery, and colourful handbags. These accessories can instantly transform a simple outfit into a Barbiecore-inspired look. A pair of fun and flirty pink sunglasses or fabulous pink earrings will do the job. Of course, you’ll need the perfect pair of shoes to complete the outfit. Tap into that retro Barbie aesthetic and opt for platform sandals, Western boots and fun slip-on mules. And if you feel daring, don’t shy away from a pair of sexy stilettos.

4. Daring silhouettes

Barbiecore is all about embracing daring and unconventional silhouettes. Experiment with voluminous sleeves, asymmetrical cuts, and unique shapes to add a fashion-forward edge to your outfits.

To complete your Barbiecore look, don’t forget about makeup and beauty. Barbiecore makeup means bright lips, pink cheeks, false lashes and of course pink nails. Remember, fashion is meant to be enjoyed, so let your creativity shine.

Finding the right shade of pink for your skin tone and your wardrobe

Whatever your favourite colour palette, chances are there’s a pink out there for you. However, when embracing the Barbiecore trend in your 50, it is worth considering the hue that flatters you the most.

Pink is not an easy colour to wear and the wrong one may easily make you look too frilly and girly. According to experts in Colour Analysis (Armocromia) you should always consider your complexion first.

As a rule of thumb warm pinks, with a yellow undertone, usually suit better those who have a warm or golden undertone. Think Flamingo, Coral, Rose Gold or Salmon.

On the other hand, if you have cool or blue skin undertones, then you’ll always look your best in the cool shades of pink. This happens because the blue undertone echoes your own natural colouring and creates a nice visual harmony. In this case, opt for Baby pink, Rose, Fuchsia, Magenta and even Plum tones.

If you’re still unsure, play around, see how pink partners with other colours that you know work well for you, and don’t shy away from including hints of this enchantingly lovely colour in your closet.

The empowering message behind Barbiecore

One of the most inspiring aspects of the Barbiecore trend is its message of embracing fashion and self-expression at any age, encouraging women to be bold, fearless, and unapologetically.

Colour psychology suggests that hot pink, in particular, gives us a way to embrace our femininity in a way that bites back — it’s punchy, confident, and demands attention in the most empowered way. So, if you’re ready to shake up your style and embrace the Barbiecore trend, don’t hold back. Let go of any self-doubt, embrace your individuality, and have fun with fashion, no matter your age. By the way, did you know that Barbie the doll is over 60?

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