Barbie is the original fashion icon, period. Margot Robbie, star of director Greta Gerwig’s highly anticipated “Barbie” film, is drawing all of the inspiration she can get from the iconic doll’s expansive stylebook. The Oscar-nominated actress continues to keep us guessing every time she steps out on the press tour.
The Guardian highlighted Gerwig’s determination to make the film as inclusive as possible, considering the doll’s undeniable impact on body image. Gerwig made it clear that she hopes it will “cut across generations and genders” and that everyone has access to a “pink, glittery existential dance party in their heart.” All steps in the right direction.
But it’s more than just pink and glitter. This movie has become a cultural phenomenon overnight, and that’s 100% due to its smart marketing strategy. In true style goddess fashion, Robbie and celebrity stylist Andrew Mukamal have completely recreated and modernized the popular doll’s classic looks stemming from the 1950s-on. This is our love letter to the fashion duo’s genius, and the blueprint laid before them by Mattel’s creative team decades prior.
1994’s Hot Skatin Barbie
From the first leaked photos of “Barbie” leads Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling in character, rocking cowgirl and cowboy regalia, it was clear that something special was about to happen, per Page Six. Then, costume designer Jacqueline Durran upped the ante with their 80s inspired neon workout gear, complete with lime green rollerskates.
Robbie and Gosling’s looks are directly pulled from 1994’s Hot Skatin’ Barbie. Thus, TikTok‘s viral Barbiecore aesthetic was born. Bright pink hues are still going strong on the social platform’s Fashion page.
2015’s Pink and Fabulous Barbie
This fun and flirty polka dot Valentino number is the look that launched it all. Robbie wore this to the Los Angeles stop of the world tour. Mukamal’s take on 2015’s Pink and Fabulous Barbie was peak perfection and came complete with a bright yellow Valentino shoulder bag and white Manolo Blahnik stilettos.
The Barbie that started it all
The Oscar for best creative mind goes to celebrity stylist Andrew Mukamal for dreaming up the fun references to vintage Barbie. Margot Robbie’s Barbiecore style is a cultural reset. Her black and white striped bodycon dress, a Hervé Léger piece, is a smart homage to the original doll. The fashion house upgraded Barbie’s swimsuit into a bodycon, one of their staple styles, marking the look’s transformation from 1959 to today. She paired her dress with white cat eye shades by Jacques Marie Mage.
1985’s Day to Night Barbie (Two Looks)
She means business, but also knows how to party. Versace’s attention to detail here is legendary. Robbie’s pink carpet outfit literally went from day to night (like its name) as she rung in her birthday on the Seoul stop of the press tour, as reported by Mashable. She started the day off in a matching pink blazer and pencil skirt set, before dazzling fans in a sparkling ballet-chic dress.
1964’s Sparkling Pink Barbie
The 1960s were a defining moment for fashion. Robbie’s glam Moschino pillbox hat and skirt suit is a love note to the decade. The Sparkling Pink doll tribute is everything. The bedazzled heart purse was a sweet touch.
1993’s Totally Barbie Hair
Curly hair, don’t care. Robbie channeled the 1990s during a photocall for her movie in Mexico City. Celebrity hairstylist Bryce Scarlett understood the assignment. Out of all of the looks, this funky Pucci dress is the one that makes me feel the most nostalgic.
1992’s Earring Magic Barbie
Our favorite fashion connoisseur is living her best life. Robbie did not come to play in a gorgeous leather Balmain outfit. Dressed up in her signature hot pink, she rocked a pair of dangling earrings and a matching charm chain belt at the Mexico premiere. Her aesthetic for the premiere was a throwback to the days spent window shopping in Claire’s for best friend charm bracelets and cutesy earrings.
1960’s Solo in the Spotlight Barbie
The queen of red carpets brought old Hollywood starlet energy to the July 2023 Los Angeles “Barbie” movie premiere. Not only did she show up in a custom, glimmering Schiaparelli gown, she also slipped on a pair of sleek, black gloves and stylish mules. These accessories were simple, but made the sequins in her dress pop even more. Her commitment was next level. Her updo (and overall side profile) was a subtle ode to Barbie’s iconic ponytail silhouette logo.
1960’s Enchanted Evening Barbie
Add London to the list of cities that Robbie ate up. She shut everything down at the July 12 European premiere in a stunning blush pink gown and Assael pearls. The custom Vivienne Westwood design kept on giving with a white fur shrug and sultry gloves. The rose waist brooch and train was also included, which added more charm to her outfit. The contrast between this look and her viral black sequin dress days prior is *chef’s kiss*.
1962’s Brunette Bubble Cut Barbie
High fashion brand Dilara has entered the chat. Robbie spiced up her night in London by changing into a fiery mini dress. The corset dress practically melted onto her curves, accentuated her legs and BBE energy-Big Barbie Energy. Hairstylist Bryce Scarlett swept her hair into a classy updo for this iconic moment in front of the London Eye, but her curtain bangs came out to play. C’mon, Barbie, let’s go party!
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