How To Bring Barbiecore Fashion To The Office 

POV: You’re a Barbie girl in a corporate world.

Barbiecore has officially entered the chat. The fashion world seems to be in a perpetual state of playing dress-up. If we weren’t already talking about Barbiecore after Valentino’s all hot pink runway collection in 2022, we certainly are now–and we have Greta Gerwig’s new Barbie movie to thank. The trend’s doll-inspired silhouettes, evoking a much-needed wardrobe nostalgia, often feature mini dresses, low-cut necklines, and figure-hugging outfits. While Barbiecore may not be the conventional choice for a professional setting, office-goers can still embrace the hottest trends of the season and have fun with their work wardrobes. Here is how you can effortlessly incorporate elements of Barbiecore into your office attire, all while maintaining a sense of professionalism. —Christina Armanious 

Blazers and Vests

Blazers and vests are part of the standard dress code in many workplaces; they convey a sense of poise and contribute to a more polished look. Suitable for different levels of seniority, elegant Barbiecore options include the pink caped blazer dress from REVOLVE, and the pink two-piece vest and fold-down pant set from Hudson’s Bay – a reimagined version of Margot Robbie’s Western Barbie outfit from the movie. The hot pink two-piece pantsuit from Aritzia, which provides a flattering, untailored silhouette, is a power suit if we ever saw one. For a more fitted look, the cotton candy blazer from Laura is a great option. This Barbie is a boss lady. 

Cardigans and Jackets 

Cardigans can easily be paired with various outfits, such as dresses, blouses, or even turtlenecks. They complement both formal, semi-formal, and business casual dress codes, making them a versatile choice for your work wardrobe. Some options inspired by Barbie include the fuchsia bouclé cardigan from J.Crew, the pink gingham jacket and collared knitwear cardigan from Hudson’s Bay, and the pink crystal-embellished cardigan from Farfetch.

Trousers and Bermuda Shorts 

Trousers and their summer counterpart, bermudas, provide a sleek aesthetic for the office, with their structured waistbands and fine tailoring. They can be styled in a myriad of ways, whether it’s pairing them with elegant blazers or more casual blouses and tops. Fun Barbiecore-inspired colours and patterns to incorporate in your day-to-day business attire include the pink-striped straight leg trousers from ba&sh, the pink gingham, wide leg trousers from Kate Hewko, the bold pink plaid trousers from SMYTHE, the bright pink paperbag pants from Sézane, and the fuchsia double-pleated wide leg pants from REVOLVE. For bermudas, consider the rose-coloured balloon-fit shorts from Frank And Oak and the pink belted ruffle shorts from Cider. 

Jumpsuits and Rompers

Jumpsuits are the epitome of versatility and effortless chic, making them a must-have for your work wardrobe. The best part? You don’t have to worry about how you’re going to style it: just slip one on, and you’ll instantly achieve a polished and well-put-together look – one that seamlessly transitions from the office to post-work dinner or drinks. Among them is the pink jumpsuit from the Zara x Barbie capsule collection, replicating the ones worn in the film while maintaining both utility and fashion-forward appeal.

The ditzy, tie-waist floral print jumpsuit from Hudson’s Bay is reminiscent of a doll’s silhouette with its dramatic sleeves and rounded neckline. For those seeking something more understated, the rose-coloured belted and woven jumpsuit, also from The Bay, is a great alternative. For fancier work functions, this bright pink beaded jumpsuit from ASOS is plenty playful and professional. 

Tweed has remained a timeless and sophisticated fabric choice for office attire. As corroborated by the BarbieStyle Instagram account, this classic material holds a place of prominence in Barbie’s own wardrobe as well. This bubblegum pink tweed romper from Anthropologie would just make your doll so proud. 

Skirts and Dresses

Dresses and skirts offer a higher degree of playful experimentation, compared to other types of garments. It’s easier to play around with silhouettes, cuts and lengths, and patterns and textures.

Pencil skirts have always been an essential part of ready-to-work fashion, and Self-Portrait has ingeniously “Barbie-fied” this office staple with its pink lace-panelling and exquisitely embellished crystals. Meanwhile, Kate Spade offers a whimsical and playful take on the pencil skirt by incorporating a flouncy mermaid twist and adorning it with a fun tulip and stripe print throughout.

There are plenty of dresses that will instantly transport you to Mattel’s “Career Girl Doll” wardrobe, allowing you to make a bold statement at work while still playing it safe. Some noteworthy pieces include Ted Baker’s pink abstract dress, adorned with cascading ruffles, and Sézane’s fuchsia dress, boasting balloon sleeves, delicate embroidery, and a scalloped neckline. Additionally, Veronica Beard’s pink paisley dress with blouson sleeves, and Cettire’s fuchsia maxi dress, complemented by chiffon panelling and intricate ruffle detailing, are also options to consider.

In the ’80s, Barbie’s signature doll appearance featured pink gingham patterns, which also became Margot Robbie’s iconic outfit in the movie. Adding a touch of nostalgia to your office attire, there’s nothing more reminiscent of Barbiecore than donning a gingham skirt or dress from Hudson’s Bay.

If you are seeking a more minimalist look, consider either the pink satin slip skirt from Dynamite or the bright pink fitted dress from Simons. Both of these pieces flaunt vibrant shades that perfectly embody Barbiecore, adding a tasteful touch of boldness. Additionally, their versatility allows you to easily dress them up or down for any work function. 

Blouses and Tops 

Poplin shirts are great office essentials because of their spiffy appearance and breathability. Adding some colour and pattern to them is an easy way to infuse elements of Barbiecore into your regular work uniform. Options include the pink-and-white striped dress shirt from Free People, or the pink beaded silk top from Cettire, reminiscent of disco Barbie. Come on, Barbie, let’s go party!

Other Barbiecore-inspired blouses that pair well with a variety of skirts and trousers, include Simons’ magenta mock-neck draped blouse, Molly Goddard’s pink tulle and ruffle top, ba&sh’s flowing, cold-shoulder fuchsia blouse, Ted Baker’s bright pink embroidered peplum top, and Cettire’s pink, lacy cropped shirt, perfect for high-waisted bottoms. 

Bags and Accessories 

Accessorizing is one of the most fun parts about dressing up, and if you remember anything from your Barbie doll’s wardrobe, it’s that finishing touches matter the most. Let’s start with belts: this oversized pink belt from ba&sh is a great accessory to add a pop of colour to your ensemble and enhance your outfit’s shape, whether you’re wearing it over your dress, skirt, or trousers. 

According to BarbieStyle, neck scarves can provide that timeless finishing touch missing from your outfit. This silk polka dot neck scarf from Wolf & Badger will add a hint of pink elegance to your work ensembles.

When it comes to jewellery, Barbiecore allows you to express your playful and youthful side, without compromising professionalism. For instance, you can flaunt these pink pom-pom earrings, available on Amazon, or opt for the large beaded necklace with pink daisies and pink, glittery seashell charm necklace from Etsy, both exact replicas of the jewellery worn by Margot Robbie in the Barbie movie. If you prefer something less whimsical, consider the rose gold necklace with pink butterflies from Swarovski, the sparkling pink wishbone ring set from Pandora, the rose gold chain bracelet with heart-shaped charms from RW&CO., or even the pink braided leather band for your Apple Watch, from Kate Spade. 

When considering work bags, it’s essential to find one that combines the chichi of Barbiecore with practicality. Roots’ pink crossbody bucket bag strikes the perfect balance, being both compact enough for everyday wear and spacious enough to fit all your essentials. The bag’s wide straps ensure that it’s comfortable to carry, making it especially convenient for daily commutes. Alternatively, Nasty Gal’s pink star quilt bag exudes a glossy charm reminiscent of Barbie’s Dreamhouse wardrobe. The bag boasts generous room for your necessities and can even double as a pet carrier for that chihuahua you definitely have. 

Flats and Heels

Although Barbies aren’t allowed to have flat feet (gross!), we can make an exception for the office. Embracing the Barbiecore trend while still prioritizing comfort and functionality is possible. Consider these options: Walmart’s pink ballet flats, Steve Madden’s pink houndstooth pointed-toe flats, and Cider’s pink, embellished strap sandals.

If you’re looking to embrace your inner Western Barbie, Dolls Kill has just what you need – calf-high cowboy boots, adorned with dazzling jewels. Nasty Gal also offers a pink knee-high cow-print boot, for those who prefer a different length. 

Experimenting with various heel shapes is an excellent way to enhance your Barbiecore outfits. Take, for example, stunning heels crafted from woven fabric from Charles & Keith. Its unique appearance catches the eye, and the concave front straps create an intriguing contrast with the rounded toes. The addition of oversized square buckles adds a playful touch. Another option to add some fun to your look is Reformation’s irregularly-shaped wedge sandal. Its lustrous finish gives it a plastic-like appearance, as if it came straight from your Barbie doll’s shoe collection. Not only are wedge heels stylish, but they also provide necessary support and stability. It’s fantastic!