How would Culmone describe Barbie’s evolving and effervescent style?
“Barbie’s style is about self-expression, aspiration and living authentically. Power dressing inspires confidence and empowers you to be unapologetically yourself.
“Barbie has played a role in the cultivation of personal style and expression across generations. Countless designers have used Barbie as a muse and likewise, Barbie is inspired by pop culture and fashion,” she added.

“Often, Barbie is a designer’s first introduction to fashion – as they dress and style her, they discover the power and delight of storytelling through her closet. Her style is unique as not only does she follow the trends, she sets them. One thing stays the same though – she is always a source of inspiration and creativity.

“She evolves with the times, never allowing her style to go stagnant. Her wardrobe is limitless. All in one day, Barbie can rock a glamorous designer gown to breakfast, wear an astronaut suit to space for work, and then transition to the latest street style for dinner. Barbie is at her best when her looks are reflective of what’s happening now in fashion.”

When Greta Gerwig’s Barbie movie – starring Australian actress and producer Margot Robbie, Canadian actor Ryan Gosling, American stars Issa Rae and America Ferrera, among others – came out last year, there was a sharp rise in the ‘Barbiecore’ trend, with hot pink having a moment.

The trend, which encapsulates Barbie’s largerthan- life pink aesthetic and idyllic way of living, often paired with nostalgic accessories, was sported by celebrities such as Florence Pugh, Lizzo and Vanessa Hudgens, and even made a mark on fashion runways – including the Valentino 2023 autumn/winter show in collaboration with Pantone Color Institute, which featured the bright Pink PP hue created exclusively for the Italian fashion house.

“I loved seeing fans lean into Barbiecore,” said Culmone. “We are seeing the world reclaim hyper-femininity, and Barbie is here for it. I’ve always said pink is not a passive colour; it’s a power colour.

“Pink has always been Barbie’s favourite colour – she even has her own signature ‘Barbie Pink’ Pantone shade (PMS 219). In the 1970s, the team strategically began to prominently [use] the colour pink in packaging. This creative shift contributed to the pink association with the brand. For Barbie, pink stands for limitless potential and is a symbol of empowerment,” adds Culmone – noting that a book, Barbie: The World Tour, will also be published on March 19, commemorating how movie star Robbie and stylist Andrew Mukamal brought some of Barbie’s most memorial outfits and curated vintage pieces to the red carpet during the film’s press tour.

“Barbie first stepped into the fashion scene 65 years ago,” Culmone continued. “Since then, she’s secured her place in history with her incredible wardrobe, amazing resume, and has been dressed by the world’s most famous designers – inspiring millions as their first fashion muse and strong female role model.”