Guide Jun 27
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Sophie Diego
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Our introduction to fashion was primarily through television and toys. For many of us, Barbie was our first–ever style role model, as she was typically dressed in bright pinks, purples, and blues.
And despite her multiple career paths, Barbie’s core aesthetic has remained relatively the same over the years. For the most part, she was the literal epitome of the early 2000s fashion trends.
Obviously, we grew out of dolls as we reached into our adult years, but that doesn’t stop us from finding the best Barbie outfit ideas. From Y2K-inspired ensembles to pretty pink OOTDs, her core aesthetic features a level of playfulness and childhood nostalgia.
If you’re looking to cop her exact vibe, I’ll share some iconic fits to consider.
My top-five list will cover:
- Barbie outfit for adults
- Barbie birthday outfit ideas
- Barbie outfit for women
- Sexy Barbie outfit ideas
What Makes Up A Barbie Outfit?
A classic Barbie outfit is typically composed of cropped cuts and lots of pink. It’s often an exaggerated take on children’s fashion—as per the majority of doll clothes on the market.
Bright, colorful, and playful, Barbie-core is known as a take on Y2K style. If you’re thinking of old cartoons such as Polly Pocket, Bratz, and Totally Spies, then you’re definitely on the right track.
History Of Barbie
Despite her youthful complexion, Barbie is actually 63 years old. Created by toy company Mattel in 1959, she was first developed by inventors Ruth and Elliot Handler.
Barbie was modeled after a German doll, the Bild Lilli, which was known as a risque collectible gifted to men. Her controversial background was soon swept quietly under the rug as Mattel began to advertise the doll directly to children.
Over the years, Barbie became a tradename for various other collectibles within the franchise. Ken, Midge, and Skipper were introduced to her family circa 1960.
She also held different career paths, as her resume includes doctor, Olympic athlete, astronaut, and various other jobs.
What Are Some Popular Barbie Outfit Ideas?
Contrary to popular belief, Barbie outfit ideas are designed to be completely wearable.
They don’t look ‘plastic,’ since most of these ensembles mirror contemporary fashion. If you’re in need of some fashion inspo, I’ll share some trendy OOTDs for trendsetters to consider.
5 Barbie Outfit Ideas
Offered in zebra print, this shirt dress is definitely meant for birthday parties, a girls’ night out, or Hollywood-esque shopping sprees.
The black belt and matching heels help to accentuate the entire look, while also complementing your figure. Due to its cropped cut, this ‘Barbie outfit ideas’ guide recommends wearing biker shorts underneath.
Statement pieces work best with neutral colors. Case in point, this ‘Barbie outfit ideas’ contender features a floral skirt with a white blouse and matching go-go boots.
Obviously, the main star of the show is the mini skirt, as it helps break up the monotony of head-to-toe cream.
This Barbie pink outfit is composed of an oversized blazer, sheer tights, and a pair of platform heels. It’s definitely an exaggerated take on doll fashion, considering its bright hue.
Perfect for birthdays and bar hopping, this ensemble will make sure that all eyes stay on you.
Not a fan of mini skirts? If so, you’ll be glad to know that Barbie’s a fan of blue jeans.
Comprised of high-waisted pants, a cropped lavender cardigan, and a pair of rainbow Nike Air Force 1s, this adorable OOTD is definitely a contender on this ‘Barbie outfit ideas’ list.
Obviously, I couldn’t forget to include a Ken look on this ‘Barbie outfit ideas’ list.
Worn by the iconic Tyler the Creator, this ensemble features a pair of beige pants, a white tee, a pink cardigan, and a leather newsboy cap. Accentuated with brown loafers, it’s a more professional take on Ken’s poolside button-up shirts and trunks.
Fashion Tips To Avoid With Barbie Outfits
Barbie outfit ideas are heavily inspired by doll fashion. That said, not all looks translate well in reality. To help avoid that ‘plastic-y’ vibe, I’ll share some fashion tips that are worth avoiding.
- Simplistic neutrals: In case you haven’t noticed, a good majority of Barbie outfit ideas align with maximalism. This isn’t the time to don beiges, blacks, and whites.
- ‘Hardcore’ fashion: Techwear, hypebeast, and grunge don’t blend well with Barbie-core. Obviously, this may not apply to expert-level stylists.
- Sexy outfits: Despite a few cropped cuts, Barbie outfit ideas tend to be conservative and modest.
Best Places To Buy Barbie Outfits
In search of a Barbie outfit Halloween look? If not, how about a good ol’ pink ensemble? Whatever aesthetic you vibe with, here are some stores I recommended checking out.
- Dolls Kill
- Nasty Gal
- Pretty Little Thing
- ASOS
- Urban Outfitters
Final Thoughts
Barbie outfit ideas are adorable, no questions asked. Designed to look pink and pretty, this core aesthetic is meant to make dressing up feel fun again.
Most expert stylists agree that fashion is centered around creativity and imagination, and what better way to exercise both skills than by channeling your inner kid?
After viewing the five looks I’ve featured, here’s to hoping that you’ve gathered enough Barbie outfit ideas to last a lifetime.
Looking for more outfit ideas? We’ve got you covered:
5 ‘80s Outfit Ideas
5 Black Dress Outfit Ideas
5 Pink Outfit Ideas
