Barbiecore Aesthetic: The Ultimate Handbook to A Pink and Playful Home!

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What In The heck is Barbiecore?

Navigating the world of design trends (especially those born on social media) can be challenging. We live in an era where trends evolve at the pace of social media scrolls and cinematic releases. So defining these trends becomes a very… dynamic task. Add to that that I avoid places like Tik Tok like the plague… so my work was cut out for me!

Anyways, the Barbiecore aesthetic draws inspiration from the iconic Barbie doll and her toy Dreamhouses …. I trust that you, dear reader, are familiar with Barbie. But if for some reason you’re not, let’s just say she’s a plastic doll that has been marketed extremely well and has been a symbol of fashion and femininity for over six decades.

Barbiecore interiors embrace a maximalist approach to interior design, contrasting with the minimalist trends that dominated the early 2000s. Well, it’s a maximalist color palette anyways! The maximalist philosophy encourages homeowners to be bold and expressive with their decor choices. Rather than adhering to a less-is-more mentality, the Barbiecore aesthetic encourages a more-is-more approach. This design ethos is about creating spaces that evoke joy, nostalgia, and a sense of whimsy.

After extensive research, I was able to break down exactly what the Barbiecore design style is… Heck, I even watched the movie, even though I vowed I wouldn’t (please appreciate the lengths I will go to for you! 🤣).

I can confidently say that Barbiecore is a nostalgic fusion of Modernist + Glam Hollywood Regency dressed in a strong pink palette with neon accents. This definition should satisfy my fellow design nerds, but let’s face it, it’s really just easier for people to call it Barbiecore. 🤣

If you want to know more about decorating midcentury modern, check out this in depth guide!

The “-core” Suffix in Design Styles

Before we explore the Barbiecore aesthetic, let’s pause to look at the significance of the “-core” suffix that has surfaced in design style names. Rooted in internet subculture, this suffix initially described music genres before expanding to embrace diverse cultural trends like fashion, aesthetics, and interior design. Usually affixed to a word or theme, it imparts a heightened and exaggerated expression of the underlying concept.

Barbie + Core = an exaggerated expression of Barbie

Within the realm of interior design, the suffix “-core” embodies a design style that wholeheartedly embraces and amplifies specific key characteristics or themes. Think cottagecore, goblincore, barbiecore!, cluttercore, etc. ‘Core’ styles are often meant to evoke strong emotional reactions. The popularity of this suffix has surged among younger generations, particularly millennials and Gen Z, renowned for their affinity towards subcultures and unique aesthetics.

Key Elements of Barbiecore Interior Design

Barbiecore interior design is characterized by bold, vibrant colors, with pink being the most prominent. However, it’s not just about color; it’s about creating a space that exudes fun, femininity, and a touch of nostalgia.

From the many Barbiecore interpretations I’ve seen, if I had to distill it down to a single list of elements which define the style, it would be the following:

1. Obviously, Pink!

Barbie and the color pink are synonymous. You can’t have one without the other! Mattel knows this and is out there suing anyone that uses their specific shade of Barbie pink (the color is Pantone 219 C, in case you were curious). But I digress – lawsuits aside, naturally, pink is the star of the show in Barbiecore interiors.

You can paint your walls light pink and accent with darker hot pink (magenta), you can bring in pink accents, you can have pink upholstery, curtains, rugs. There is no one way to do it. Add as much or as little as you want. But for a really ‘authentic’, over the top Barbiecore space, you’d probably want to coat your entire room in one shade of pink paint. And then accent with a darker hot pink. You could even go as far as adding paint glitter to your paint, for that extra bit of Barbie sparkle. ✨

There are more ideas further down in the article about how to use pink in a more subtle manner if you don’t want to go for a full on pink explosion!

Interesting but somewhat useless factoid: during set construction of the Barbie movie, they used so much pink paint that they created a worldwide shortage!

2. The Exclusion of white

When creating a Barbiecore room, the color pink is undoubtedly crucial, but equally vital is the absence of white. It’s the vibrant hues of neon pinks, pastel pinks, and bubblegum pinks that dominate the decor, engulfing the space with a playful and lively atmosphere that perfectly captures the essence of Barbiecore aesthetics. The intentional omission of white creates a striking and unified ambiance, while also evoking a strong association with the toys.

If you watch the movie, pay attention to how they also deliberately avoided using any white in their Barbieland sets. Once you see it, it’s hard to miss!

Obviously the movie sets were taken to the extreme and were meant to be very artificial and toy-like, so you don’t have to follow this rule if you don’t want to! But if you really want to emphasize the pink, excluding the white is a great way to do it.

3. Neon Colors

Craving some extra pizzazz for your pink scheme? Then awaken your space with a burst of neons – canary yellow, apple green, vibrant aqua, and luscious lavender are the way to go. Just like Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, who flawlessly rocked these vibrant hues on set for the Barbie movie!

The rollerblades and kneepads Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling use in the movie are so bright, they practically burn off your retinas (I mean that in the best way possible!). That color is just so satisfying!

The neon colors in Barbiecore are reminiscent of the 80s and 90s, evoking nostalgia from the era when Barbie was incredibly popular. These colors play a significant role in defining the style’s nostalgic charm.

4. Iridescent Glass & Plastic Accents

The iridescent trend has been steadily gaining popularity over the past couple of years, and it perfectly complements the dreamlike aesthetic of Barbiecore style. The play of shimmering colors and reflective surfaces adds a touch of enchantment and whimsy to any space.

I can definitely get on board with this particular aspect of Barbiecore (I already own at least 3 pieces of iridescent decor 😬 Why am I so compelled to buy iridescent decor, I don’t know, I can’t help myself).

5. sequins, fur & velvet

Sequins, faux fur and plush velvet, are among some of the materials and textures that can be combined to curate a cozy and glamorous Barbiecore aesthetic. Think pink sequined and fur throw pillows paired together, a velvet headboard, and you’re well on your way.

6. transparent colored plastic

Just as the catchy song goes, 🎶 “life in plastic, it’s fantastic!”🎶 , this sentiment holds true for Barbiecore interiors too. Delicate pastel tones combined with transparent plastic elements create a whimsical ambiance, reminiscent of dollhouses and plastic toys. Of course opaque plastic decor works just as well, too!

7. High gloss and lacquer

High gloss and lacquered surfaces exude a sense of luxury and opulence. They create a sleek and polished look that aligns with the glamorous and extravagant nature of Barbiecore. Just like Barbie’s world often represents a lavish and aspirational lifestyle, the reflective quality of these finishes elevates the overall ambiance. The reflective nature of high gloss and lacquer surfaces also adds depth and dimension to a space. This quality pairs well with the vibrant colors and neon accents typical of Barbiecore design.

8. Curved furniture

Curved furniture designs, with their gentle lines and flowing shapes, convey a sense of softness and femininity. This complements the overall feminine and dreamy vibe of the Barbiecore aesthetic. The playful and whimsical nature of curved furniture also resonates well with the imaginative and enchanting atmosphere of Barbiecore. The curves add a touch of fantasy to the space, echoing the playful spirit of Barbie’s world.

9. Midcentury Modern Furniture

Midcentury modern furniture has maintained its popularity over the decades due to its timeless designs. These pieces can seamlessly blend into both retro-inspired spaces and contemporary interiors, making them adaptable to the fusion of past and present seen in Barbiecore design. Midcentury modern furniture brings a blend of nostalgia, sleek functionality, and timeless elegance to Barbiecore interior design. Its ability to bridge the gap between vintage aesthetics and contemporary trends makes it a relevant and versatile choice that enhances the overall character and appeal of Barbiecore spaces.

10. Memphis decor

Memphis design gained popularity in the 1980s, which coincides with the same era in which Barbie was already well-established. The presence of Memphis design elements in Barbiecore evokes a sense of nostalgia for both the design style itself but also the time when Barbie was a cultural icon. Millennials and Gen Z who are embracing Barbiecore for nostalgic reasons will find Memphis design elements particularly resonant. Memphis and postmodern decor is known for its visual impact, characterized by bold patterns, clashing colors, and unexpected shapes. When integrated into Barbiecore interiors, these elements contribute to the vibrant, visually stimulating, and playful atmosphere that defines the style.

Barbiecore Vs Other Interior Design Styles

Unlike minimalistic or neutral styles, the Barbiecore aesthetic is unapologetically vibrant and playful. It’s a style that encourages individuality and doesn’t shy away from making a statement. Yes, Barbiecore is a trend, but it’s not about following trends or adhering to traditional design rules. It’s about creating a space that reflects your personality and makes you happy. It’s a style that says, “This is me, and I’m not afraid to show it.” Just like how Barbie could be anything she wanted to be, Barbiecore gives you the freedom to create whatever kind of space you can imagine.

Unlike the sleek lines of contemporary design or the rustic charm of farmhouse, Barbiecore is all about being glamorous and youthful and basically just that little bit ‘extra’. But what if you’re not into being glam or flashy or maximalist? Don’t worry, you can still experiment with pink!

Barbiecore is typically associated with maximalism with nostalgic retro midcentury undertones. But it can be brought into other styles as well! The way I see it is more of a departure from classic Barbiecore, and simply more of a fusion of pink into other styles. Totally ok, too!

You can definitely bring in pink into “quieter” styles, from Japandi, to Scandinavian, to Ultra Minimalistic. Personally, I’d probably stick with a softer, more pastel-toned pink for more minimalistic design styles (but feel free to experiment, that’s what’s fun about design!). Here are some AI assisted designs I created to show you what I mean:

Barbiecore + Japandi

Barbiecore + Scandinavian

Barbiecore + Minimalism

Contemporary Barbiecore

If you want more tips on decorating with pink, then check out this article!

Influence of The Barbie Dreamhouses on Barbiecore

The Barbie Dreamhouse has long been associated with dreams (hence the name), and limitless possibilities. And I believe it has played a big part in shaping the Barbiecore design style.

The Barbie Dreamhouse has been an iconic symbol of aspiration and imagination for generations of young girls. From its introduction in 1962 to the present day, the Dreamhouse has evolved alongside societal shifts. It has influenced not only the way girls play, but also the way they perceive their own potential and possibilities.

Each Dreamhouse reflects the distinctive style and trends of its era. These dollhouses are like miniature time capsules that offer insights into societal changes, evolving design trends, and shifting women’s roles over the decades.

Dream Big!

The Barbie Dreamhouse empowered girls to dream big, to see themselves as architects, astronauts, fashion designers, entrepreneurs and more. It subtly conveyed the message that they were in control of their destiny and could shape their future. The Dreamhouse was not just a dollhouse; it was a stage for ambitious dreams and visions, and a symbol for feminine empowerment. This may all seem normal now, but in the 1960s when the first dreamhouse was released, consider that women couldn’t even get a mortgage without a man co-signing with them! Different times, my friend.

Interestingly, the first pink Barbie Dreamhouse only appeared in the 1990s. But ever since then, the pink walls, luxurious furnishings, and endless accessories of the Dreamhouse have allowed young girls to envision a life of glamour, success, and empowerment.

Money money money!

And to Mattel’s delight, children who own Dreamhouses buy double the amount of toys as children who only own the dolls, so you can imagine why the Dreamhouse has been a staple in the Barbie franchise for so long! Dreamhouse = 🤑🤑

Of course, the Barbie dollhouse is a status symbol in and of itself: retailing at $200 USD, with the current DreamHouse standing nearly 4 feet tall, you not only need the money to buy it but also the space to store it!

A very interesting book about the history of Barbie Dreamhouses was recently released by Mattel. However since they decided to only print 200 copies of it, the book sold out within 4 milliseconds and it’s no longer available. When I reached out to them about whether I’d be able to buy a copy in the future, they didn’t know if or when they would be reprinting the book. Maybe one day the book will be available again, but if Mattel doesn’t even know, then I sure don’t 🤣

Set Design: The Barbie Movie

The Barbie Dreamhouse has a far-reaching influence beyond childhood playrooms. In the recent movie featuring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, it played a significant role in popularizing the emerging Barbiecore aesthetic.

The film’s production designer, Sarah Greenwood, took inspiration from the iconic Dreamhouses to create elaborate and expansive sets. These sets radiate a sense of extravagant delight with pink tones, glittering textures, and lavish embellishments, capturing the opulence and whimsicality of the Dreamhouse experience.

In addition to the Barbie houses, the film’s design team looked to the dynamic midcentury modernism prevalent in Palm Springs for inspiration. Richard Neutra’s iconic Kaufmann House from 1946, as well as other prominent landmarks photographed by Slim Aarons, were instrumental in shaping their creative vision.

To watch a tour Architectural Digest did of the Barbie movie set, check out this YouTube video:

Barbiecore Aesthetic on Social Media: TikTok and Beyond

Social media, particularly TikTok, has played a pivotal role in the rise of Barbiecore. Users share their Barbiecore-inspired rooms, DIY projects, and shopping hauls, inspiring others to embrace this style. The hashtag #Barbiecore has garnered millions billions of views, demonstrating the style’s widespread appeal.

The trend has also spread to Instagram and Pinterest, with Barbiecore-inspired home decor and fashion ideas filling the platforms.

Pinterest saw a rise of over 1000% between May 2022 and May 2023 in Barbie-related searches, according to Swasti Sarna, Pinterest’s global director of data insights. Searches for “Barbie aesthetic bedroom” and other hot pink decor categories, including bathroom decor and kitchen cabinets, surged during this period. The surge in interest highlights the growing popularity of Barbiecore, especially among younger audiences seeking to add a touch of pink-tastic glamour to their spaces.

And for those who want to remain fabulous even in the afterlife, apparently you can get a Barbie-themed coffin at some funeral homes.😬 #limitedtimeonly

What Barbiecore Aesthetics Mean To Millennials and Gen Z

You won’t see many boomers rushing to redecorate in hot pink, but the Barbiecore interior design style definitely holds special meaning for millennials and Gen Z. It represents nostalgia, self-expression, and a new take on aesthetics. What makes Barbiecore appealing to these generations is that it allows them to create spaces that reflect their own experiences and tastes, rather than conforming to traditional design norms.

My closing Thoughts on the Barbiecore Design Trend

After researching for this article, my conclusion is that there are various interpretations of what the Barbiecore aesthetic truly is. This is to be expected, considering it’s a design trend fueled by social media, which leads to rapid evolution and many different ideas.

Some just see it as a fun celebration of the color pink. Some take it further, and turn their homes into plastic dreamlands resembling Barbie’s iconic abode, complete with faux fruit on the counters. Another perspective considers Barbiecore as a fusion of vintage and modern decor, with a dominant presence of pink. Personally, this is the interpretation of Barbiecore that resonates with me the most.

In any case, however you want to interpret Barbiecore, it’s neat to see how this design trend sparks creativity. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach, allowing for limitless imagination and personal expression, which is fundamentally what Barbie is all about!

While Barbiecore probably won’t have a forever place in interior design trends, I think it’s a mirror reflecting our times. Its nostalgic charm intertwined with a contemporary flair reflects our present-day blend of fond memories and new horizons. Barbiecore’s playful aesthetics embody our urge to inject joy into spaces, especially in a post-pandemic world. So, as trends shift, its legacy endures as a snapshot of our era.

Shop The Barbiecore Aesthetic!