affordable italian fashion brands

BARBIECORE FASHION: HOW TO ACHIEVE THIS DREAMY AESTHETIC

Are you ready to dive into the vibrant world of Barbiecore fashion? This fun and lively trend has captured everyone’s attention with its growing popularity. The key is to channel your inner Barbie and embrace bold colors, playful shapes, and, of course, plenty of pink!

Barbiecore fashion offers everything from quirky outfits to empowering statement pieces, allowing you to showcase your personality and passion for all things Barbie. This aesthetic brings the iconic doll’s style into chic, wearable, and eye-catching ensembles. So why not infuse some Barbie-inspired charm into your wardrobe and make a statement this season?

ORIGINS OF THE BARBIECORE FASHION

The Barbiecore trend takes its cue from the legendary Barbie doll, originally created by Mattel in the 1950s. It all started with the black and white striped swimsuit worn by the first Barbie, igniting a fashion revolution that has endured for decades, capturing the imagination of all ages. Today, Barbie’s influence can be seen everywhere, from high-end runway collections to everyday streetwear.

Barbiecore is more than just a tribute to the iconic doll; it embodies a particular vision of femininity that was popular in the 1950s. The trend embraces bold colors—especially vibrant pinks—along with form-fitting silhouettes, playful prints, and statement accessories. In an era where nostalgia often shapes fashion trends, Barbiecore adds a playful and whimsical twist that many find irresistible.

While Barbie’s style has evolved over the years, her impact on fashion remains strong. For instance, Valentino’s Fall 2022 runway highlighted Barbie-inspired designs, bringing the iconic pink aesthetic back into the fashion spotlight. With such prominent endorsements, this lively trend is set to continue growing in popularity.

AESTHETIC AND STYLE ELEMENTS

COLOR PALETTE

The Barbiecore aesthetic is all about embracing the magic of pink! Central to this style is the use of pink in all its shades, from soft bubblegum to bold fuchsia. This wide range of pink tones creates a playful yet stylish vibe.

To achieve the perfect Barbie-inspired look, build a wardrobe around a monochromatic pink scheme, incorporating different shades and fabrics. This approach not only enhances the pink aesthetic but also aligns perfectly with the Barbiecore trend.

While pink is the star of Barbiecore fashion, don’t hesitate to introduce complementary colors and patterns to elevate your ensemble. Adding accents of white, silver, gold, or even bright colors like turquoise or yellow can add an exciting contrast to the look.

In summary, the Barbiecore color palette focuses on:

  • Various shades of pink (bubblegum, hot pink, fuchsia, etc.)
  • Monochromatic pink schemes
  • Complementary colors and patterns to enhance the pink aesthetic

KEY CLOTHING PIECES

DRESSES AND OUTFITS

For dresses, embrace the pink! The Barbiecore trend revolves around incorporating various shades of pink, from subtle dusty rose to striking fuchsia. Choose standout silhouettes like off-the-shoulder, bodycon, or voluminous tulle dresses to capture that iconic Barbie doll charm. Feel free to experiment with mixing prints and textures—try pairing a vibrant floral dress with a sophisticated faux fur jacket for a chic twist.

SWIMSUITS AND ACTIVEWEAR

You can also infuse the Barbiecore trend into your swimsuits and activewear. Seek out swimwear in different shades of pink, featuring playful details like ruffles, bows, and cutouts. Show off your unique style at the beach or pool with eye-catching one-pieces or daring bikinis. For activewear, opt for pink leggings paired with a coordinating sports bra, or go for a retro-inspired tracksuit in bubblegum pink.

DENIM AND CASUAL WEAR

Adding Barbiecore fashion to your everyday wardrobe is simple with a few key denim and casual pieces. Opt for pink denim jackets, jeans, or skirts, and pair them with graphic tees or crop tops for a relaxed yet striking look. Complete your playful Barbie-inspired outfit with pink accessories, such as sunglasses, bags, and jewelry, to elevate the ensemble.

ACCESSORIES AND DETAILS

Accessories are crucial for nailing Barbiecore fashion. Opt for bold, eye-catching pieces like chunky jewelry, oversized sunglasses, and statement hair accessories. Don’t hesitate to add sparkle and rhinestones—they’re perfect for injecting a touch of glamour into your look.

When it comes to prints and patterns, Barbiecore fashion is all about fun and creativity. Embrace a mix of florals, animal prints, and geometric shapes in vibrant, lively colors. Feel free to combine different patterns to create a truly standout style.

Textures and fabrics are also key elements of this trend. Luxurious materials like velvet, satin, and lace will give you that quintessential Barbie feel. Experiment with fabrics that feature interesting textures, such as ruffles, pleats, or frills, to add depth and whimsy to your outfit.

Lastly, pay attention to the details. Finishing touches like chic bows, ribbons, delicate lace trims, and bold zippers can transform an outfit. Look for pieces with intricate details to fully embrace this exciting trend.

INSPIRATION FROM POP CULTURE

BARBIECORE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

TikTok is a great place to find Barbiecore trends. Users are sharing their unique takes on the style with fun videos under hashtags like #barbie and #barbiecore. You’ll find everything from styling tips to DIY clothing transformations. Dive in and you might discover your own Barbiecore fashion style!

On Pinterest, you can find tons of boards dedicated to this fabulous look. Browse through collections of pink outfits, accessories, and stunning visuals. It’s a great way to get inspired and explore the world of Barbiecore.

If you’re looking for unique Barbiecore items, check out Etsy. The site has many creative pieces made by talented designers, including clothing, accessories, and fun home decor. It’s the perfect place to find special items that will make your Barbiecore style shine.

CELEBRITIES AND PUBLIC FIGURES

Beyond movies and music, many celebrities and public figures have embraced the Barbiecore trend. Margot Robbie, Anne Hathaway, and Florence Pugh have been seen rocking vibrant pink outfits, while Megan Fox and Ariana DeBose have incorporated the style into their red-carpet looks. Additionally, Paris Hilton’s passion for pink and her famous catchphrase “That’s hot!” have solidified her status as an unofficial Barbiecore fashion icon.

MUSIC AND MUSIC VIDEOS

Barbiecore fashion has also made a splash in the music scene. Lizzo’s vibrant and daring style in her music videos captures the essence of Barbiecore, while artists like Nicki Minaj and Ariana Grande have embraced the trend in their performances and public appearances, fully embodying the Barbiecore look.

MOVIES AND TV SHOWS

One of the most iconic films contributing to the rise of Barbiecore fashion is Legally Blonde, where Elle Woods, played by Reese Witherspoon, famously dons her signature pink outfits. Another classic is Mean Girls, which popularized the line “On Wednesdays, we wear pink.” Adding to the trend is the highly anticipated Barbie movie, directed by Greta Gerwig and starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling. The excitement surrounding this film has definitely sparked a Barbiecore craze!

FASHION DESIGNERS AND BRANDS EMBRACING BARBIECORE

First up, the famous Italian designer Valentino has embraced the Barbiecore trend under the creative direction of Pierpaolo Piccioli. Valentino’s Barbiecore collection features playful shapes, bold colors, and lots of pink, staying true to their romantic and feminine style.

High-street favorite Zara has also joined the Barbiecore movement. Their latest collection includes a variety of outfits with pastel colors, big bows, ruffles, and eye-catching accessories—all at affordable prices.

Footwear brand Aldo has introduced a collection that’s perfect for Barbiecore looks. Their range includes bubblegum pink pumps and rhinestone-studded heels, adding a fun touch to your Barbiecore outfits.

Major fashion houses like Versace, Moschino, and Chanel are also celebrating Barbiecore. Versace’s collection features hot pink mini dresses and body-hugging fabrics with their signature glamorous style. Moschino offers playful and exaggerated designs that capture Barbie’s iconic wardrobe. Chanel adds a touch of classic elegance with pink tweed jackets, pearls, and quilted accessories, giving Barbiecore a sophisticated twist.

Lastly, don’t miss the Pink PP Collection, a lesser-known brand that offers a variety of Barbie-inspired clothes and accessories.

INFLUENCERS AND TRENDSETTERS

First up is Hailey Bieber, who brings a chic touch to Barbiecore fashion. She mixes modern minimalism with classic Barbie elements like pink colors and feminine shapes. Check out her Instagram for ideas on how to add Barbiecore to your daily outfits.

Kacey Musgraves is another star embracing Barbiecore. Known for her bold style and love of bright colors, Kacey adds her own twist to the Barbie look with rhinestones, statement accessories, and daring skirts.

Conan Gray, a social media influencer and singer, also gets creative with Barbiecore. He wears pastel outfits, chunky accessories, and retro sunglasses, giving a fun and youthful spin to the trend.

Kendall Becker, an interior designer and social media personality, shows that Barbiecore can extend beyond fashion. Her home is filled with pastel-colored furniture, pink accents, and retro designs, proving Barbiecore can also be a part of your living space.

Finally, Chazlyn Yvonne Stunson is a fashion lover who perfectly embodies Barbiecore. Her wardrobe features puffy sleeves, bows, and lace, making her style look like a modern fairytale.

BARBIECORE IN DIFFERENT OCCASIONS

Before we get into the details, it’s important to understand what Barbiecore fashion is all about. It’s about embracing a super-feminine style with bright colors, especially pink, and adding a touch of childhood nostalgia. Barbiecore can make a statement at any event, whether it’s fashion week or a casual outing!

For a womenswear runway show or fashion week event, stand out with a bold Barbiecore outfit. Experiment with different shapes and sizes, like a mini dress with big shoulders or a high-waisted skirt with a ruffled crop top. Don’t forget to add fun accessories like platform heels, oversized sunglasses, and statement jewelry. Have fun with your look!

At a formal event like a haute couture show or movie premiere, go for a glamorous Barbiecore look. Choose a long pink gown with standout details like ruffles, sequins, or cutouts. Pair it with elegant accessories like a chic clutch and delicate heels, while keeping that playful Barbiecore vibe.

Even for everyday events or more casual occasions, you can still rock Barbiecore fashion. Try a pink statement piece, like a blazer or pants, and balance it with more neutral colors. Add playful accessories like heart-shaped sunglasses and fun earrings to complete the look.

CONCLUSION

Barbiecore is more than just a passing trend; it’s a celebration of femininity, confidence, and a touch of playful nostalgia. By incorporating elements of pink, bright colors, and iconic Barbie silhouettes into your wardrobe, you can channel this dreamy aesthetic and express your unique style.

16 BEST BRANDS SIMILAR TO & OTHER STORIES

A few months ago, I discovered & Other Stories and quickly became obsessed with their romantic silhouettes, luxurious fabrics, and refined details. However, as someone who loves browsing new arrivals, I soon wanted more variety.

So, I started exploring similar brands that offer a comparable aesthetic with fresh styles to browse. After hours of online shopping, I found some fantastic alternatives that any & Other Stories fan would love. 

The best part? These brands deliver stylish options without the high price tag of luxury labels like Dior or Chanel, making them a more affordable yet fashionable choice.

FRANK AND OAK

Frank and Oak is a Canadian brand founded in 2012, known for stylish, eco-friendly essentials. They focus on versatile pieces like polos, trousers, and joggers made from sustainable fabrics such as eucalyptus, organic cotton, and recycled polyester, similar to & Other Stories’ eco-conscious materials. Their modern designs fit well with & Other Stories’ looks, while also catering to an active lifestyle. With sizes ranging from XXS to XXXL, they offer options for everyone, from petite to plus size.

Prices range from $50 to $150, making Frank and Oak a more affordable choice for those who value quality and ethics. Their focus on understated colors and prints also makes it easy to mix and match with any wardrobe. While they lean more toward casual athleisure, their commitment to sustainability aligns with & Other Stories’ values.

& Other Stories carefully curates brands that match their aesthetic and values. Whether you’re looking for playful prints, structured silhouettes, or everyday basics, these brands offer stylish options made from eco-friendly materials, with a focus on affordable luxury and feminine details.

Each brand brings its own unique style, but they all share & Other Stories’ dedication to sustainability, versatility, and accessible fashion. From Sezane’s Parisian-inspired pieces to Girlfriend Collective’s activewear, these brands provide thoughtfully designed clothes that expand your wardrobe with the same care as & Other Stories’ own collections.

In the end, & Other Stories is a great starting point for discovering new indie designers who offer romantic, long-lasting, and eco-friendly styles for your closet.

APIECE APART

Apiece Apart is an American brand founded in 2016 that focuses on minimalist, elegant separates. Their collection features structured blazers, trousers, and dresses in neutral tones, made from high-quality fabrics like Italian cashmere, French linen, and Portuguese wool that get softer over time. This focus on durable, long-lasting materials aligns with & Other Stories’ values.

Their feminine yet versatile designs easily transition from work to the weekend, with clean, tailored lines that pair well with & Other Stories’ more relaxed styles. Sizing runs from XXS to XL, and prices range from $100 to $300.

While Apiece Apart leans more toward structured and mature styles, it complements & Other Stories’ romantic pieces with timeless, polished looks ideal for an everyday wardrobe.

TENTREE

TENTREE is a Canadian brand founded in 2013 that focuses on sustainable, casual basics with an outdoorsy vibe. They use eco-friendly materials like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and plant-dyed fabrics, similar to & Other Stories’ selections.

Their pieces, like t-shirts, sweaters, and pants, are versatile enough for anything from hikes to everyday wear. With each purchase, TENTREE plants 10 trees, reflecting their strong commitment to sustainability, much like & Other Stories.

Sizes range from XS to XXL, and prices are affordable, around $50 to $100 per item. The relaxed yet refined styles blend effortlessly with & Other Stories’ wardrobe pieces.

Though TENTREE leans more toward athleisure, it shares & Other Stories’ focus on sustainability, offering comfortable, eco-friendly basics for any occasion.

EVERLANE

Everlane, an American brand founded in 2011, focuses on minimalist, versatile basics with a commitment to transparency in sourcing and production, similar to & Other Stories’ ethical approach. Their pieces, made from premium fabrics like cotton, cashmere, and leather, prioritize comfort and movement.

With prices ranging from $40 to $150, Everlane offers affordable, long-lasting clothing thanks to their direct-to-consumer model. Their simple, clean silhouettes mix well with & Other Stories’ more romantic styles, while their neutral color palettes make layering easy.

Available in sizes 00-14, with tall and petite options, Everlane provides ethically produced essentials that can build a flexible, eco-conscious wardrobe. Though more focused on minimalism, Everlane shares & Other Stories’ values of transparency and affordability, making them a great match for sustainable fashion lovers.

GIRLFRIEND COLLECTIVE

Girlfriend Collective, founded in 2016, is a sustainable American activewear brand that makes versatile pieces like leggings, sports bras, dresses, and jumpsuits from recycled materials, including plastic bottles. Their designs are flexible for movement while polished enough to go from yoga to brunch.

With inclusive sizing from XXS to 6X, Girlfriend Collective caters to all body types. Their modern colors and fabrics have a clean, minimalist look similar to & Other Stories. Prices range from $48 to $108, comparable to brands like Lululemon, but with a much lower environmental impact.

The brand focuses on flattering, well-fitting performance fabrics without the revealing style of some other activewear brands. Their pieces can be layered with & Other Stories’ dresses or worn alone for low-impact activities.

Although Girlfriend Collective is more focused on athleisure, they share & Other Stories’ commitment to sustainability, making them a great choice for an eco-friendly, size-inclusive wardrobe.

PRINCESSE TAM TAM

Princesse Tam Tam is a French brand founded in 1991, known for its feminine, bohemian-inspired clothing and accessories. Their styles feature airy prints, flowing silhouettes, ruffles, and nature-inspired details, echoing & Other Stories’ romantic vibe.

Using lightweight fabrics like cotton, silk, and linen, their pieces are designed for all-day comfort and movement. Items like maxi dresses, blouse dresses, and skirts can easily be dressed up or down for various occasions. Their unique prints, including floral, botanical, and celestial designs, add charm without being overly trendy.

The silhouettes are relaxed but often include flattering details like waist ties. Despite being based in France, their prices are quite affordable, ranging from $100 to $200.

Princesse Tam Tam offers a more bohemian alternative to & Other Stories, blending romantic styles with easygoing French country charm.

CHELSEA28

Chelsea28, founded in 2012, is a Canadian brand known for feminine blouses, dresses, and skirts. Their styles feature romantic elements like ruffles, puff sleeves, floral prints, and dreamy fabrics such as tulle and lace, similar to & Other Stories’ vintage-inspired look.

They use fabrics like vintage-wash cotton, linen, and silk, offering soft movement and comfort. Their pieces are versatile, easily dressed up or down, and perfect for mixing and matching.

With fit-and-flare shapes, peplums, and retro necklines, their designs add sweet, timeless touches. Sizes range from XXS to XL, flattering both petite and curvy figures. Prices range from $80 to $180, reflecting their focus on quality materials and attention to detail.

Chelsea28 captures the romantic essence of & Other Stories, offering unique prints and quality fabrics at a higher level of affordability, making it a great addition to any feminine wardrobe.

REFORMATION

Reformation is a Los Angeles-based sustainable brand known for its feminine dresses and separates. Their styles feature retro-inspired details like puff sleeves, ruffles, floral prints, and waist detailing, similar to & Other Stories’ romantic look.

They use fabrics like silk, linen, and recycled or organic materials that are designed to last and align with & Other Stories’ focus on eco-friendly fashion. Their pieces are flattering and versatile, with details like cut-outs, pleats, and feminine necklines adding interest without being too flashy.

Reformation’s styles are more form-fitting than & Other Stories’ but suit all body types, with sizes ranging from 00 to 26. Prices are higher, around $100 to $300 per piece, but items are often on sale.

Reformation’s commitment to sustainable, stylish fashion makes it a great match for & Other Stories, adding a romantic, retro touch to an eco-friendly wardrobe.

SEZANE

Sezane, a French brand founded in 2013, is known for its feminine, practical clothing with a Parisian flair. Their styles feature classic pieces like blazers, shift dresses, and skirt sets, often with subtle details like ruffles or floral embroidery.

They use high-quality fabrics such as linen, wool, cashmere, and silk that are designed to last, similar to & Other Stories’ focus on durable materials. Their pieces are versatile and can be dressed up or down for work or weekends, with a slightly looser fit that flatters curves. Sizes range from XXS to L.

Prices are a bit higher, around $100 to $300 per piece, but the quality of the fabrics and construction makes it worth it. Sezane offers a smaller, curated selection with limited drops, rather than constant new arrivals.

The brand’s clean aesthetic with pops of color and prints complements & Other Stories’ style, making it a great match for creating laid-back, luxurious looks.

& DAUGHTER

& Daughter is a small, independent London-based brand known for its feminine, flowing styles. Their clothes, featuring floral prints, ruffles, and tiered dresses, have a romantic, bohemian vibe similar to & Other Stories.

They use comfortable fabrics like linen, silk, and cotton, aligning with & Other Stories’ focus on luxury materials. Their pieces are versatile, easily transitioning from day to night, and include feminine details like puff sleeves and peplums without being too trendy.

Prices are affordable, ranging from $100 to $150 for dresses, tops, and pants, similar to & Other Stories. Although their sizing is limited to XS-L, their flowing fits flatter various body types.

& Daughter offers unique, romantic pieces with a handmade touch, making it a great option for fashion-forward shoppers who appreciate natural fabrics and feminine designs.

COS

COS, a sister brand of H&M, offers minimalist styles with a refined look and quality fabrics. Their aesthetic, which complements & Other Stories’ romantic style with a Scandinavian twist, includes flowing midi dresses, soft blouses, sleek trousers, and knitwear made from natural materials like linen, silk, and cashmere.

Their clean, neutral designs make it easy to mix and match pieces. COS focuses on comfort and versatility, with clothing that transitions well from day to night. Subtle feminine details, like ruffles and peplums, add a touch of elegance without being overly trendy.

Prices are surprisingly affordable, ranging from $50 to $150, offering great value for high-quality fabrics. COS’s investment pieces are designed to last and fit well with the more romantic pieces from & Other Stories.

COS is a great choice for those who appreciate understated, chic styles and want to mix minimalist basics with the more detailed items from & Other Stories.

MADEWELL

Madewell is a popular American brand known for its denim and versatile everyday clothing. Their styles match the refined simplicity of & Other Stories with comfortable, stylish fabrics.

You’ll find feminine blazers, cozy sweaters, dresses, and well-loved jeans at Madewell. Their pieces have effortless silhouettes with subtle details like ruffles and button accents. The denim is soft and feels comfortable right from the start.

Madewell offers wardrobe staples that work well together, such as blazers with skirts or jeans, and sweaters with skirts and dresses. Their carefully washed prints add a touch of visual interest.

Prices are reasonable, between $50 and $150, and their high-quality denim lasts through many washes. Madewell’s laid-back, casual style complements & Other Stories’ look, making it easy to mix and match with their more refined pieces.

ZARA

Zara is the most budget-friendly option on this list, offering stylish, on-trend pieces at affordable prices.Their collection includes many items that have a similar look to & Other Stories, such as blouses, dresses, skirts, and trousers made from good-quality fabrics. You’ll find flowy silhouettes, rich colors, and feminine details like ruffles, puff sleeves, and floral patterns. Though the materials are less expensive, the craftsmanship is still solid.

You can refresh your wardrobe with basics like blouses, tanks, and knits priced between $20 and $50. These items pair well with Zara’s jeans, skirts, and trousers. Zara also offers stylish dresses and jumpsuits for weekends and nights out.

Zara’s fast fashion model means new collections come out every two weeks, so there are always fresh styles to explore. This is great for trying out new colors, prints, and cuts without spending a lot.

While Zara’s pieces aren’t long-term investments, they allow you to achieve a similar romantic style to & Other Stories at a lower cost. Regular sales and markdowns provide excellent value for the price.

HALOGEN

Halogen, Nordstrom’s own fashion line, is a great choice for affordable yet stylish wardrobe essentials. Their minimalist style is similar to & Other Stories, featuring blouses, dresses, trousers, and sweaters made from quality fabrics like silk, cashmere, and wool. The designs include smooth lines and feminine details such as ruffle sleeves and peplum waists.

Halogen’s pieces are versatile and easy to mix and match for both work and casual wear. Flowy blouses and knit dresses can be paired with loafers or heels, while tailored trousers work well from the office to dinner. The neutral colors make it easy to create various outfits.

Prices for most items range from $50 to $100, offering good quality without breaking the bank. Halogen’s fashion-forward designs provide great value, making it easy to build a polished wardrobe inspired by & Other Stories.

ARITZIA

Aritzia, a popular Canadian retailer, is a great alternative to & Other Stories with a similar stylish vibe. Their collections, especially from the Wilfred line, offer luxe fabrics and feminine silhouettes that match & Other Stories’ romantic and modern style. You’ll find cozy knitwear, flattering pants, and floaty dresses perfect for any season.

Aritzia uses high-quality materials like cashmere, silk, and wool, similar to & Other Stories. Their pieces work well for both day and night, making it easy to transition from work to evening wear.

Prices range from $50 to $150, which is affordable for the quality. Aritzia provides stylish, long-lasting pieces that fit well into a & Other Stories-inspired wardrobe. From elegant loungewear to office-ready outfits, their collections are definitely worth checking out.

MANGO

Mango is a great brand that offers a similar style to & Other Stories. Known for its affordable and trendy clothing, Mango features feminine silhouettes, playful prints, and rich colors. You’ll find romantic blouses, knit and wrap dresses, skirts, and trousers made from lightweight fabrics, just like & Other Stories.

Details like ruffles, puff sleeves, and floral patterns add a feminine touch without being overly girly. Mango’s pieces also transition easily from day to night with just a change of shoes or accessories.

Prices are budget-friendly, with many items costing under $100. Mango frequently updates its inventory, so you’ll always find new styles to explore. For a stylish, affordable alternative to & Other Stories, Mango is a top choice for feminine and sophisticated clothing.

CONCLUSION

Whether you’re a fan of & Other Stories’ minimalist aesthetic, its trendy pieces, or its commitment to sustainability, there are plenty of brands out there that offer similar vibes. From affordable options like H&M and Zara to more upscale labels like COS and Reformation, there’s a brand for every style and budget. So, explore these 16 brands and discover your next favorite fashion find!