SEW A BARBIE MOVIE GINGHAM DOLL DRESS

The new Barbie Movie has taken the world by storm, bringing a wave of pink everywhere! The costume designs are a dazzling display of fabulousness with a strong vintage vibe, which I absolutely adore. Drawing inspiration directly from Barbie’s iconic wardrobe, the outfits in the movie are truly unforgettable. Rather than splurging on the movie dolls (though we couldn’t resist picking up the Pink Western Barbie), I’ve decided to get creative and hack together some sewing patterns to recreate a few of the iconic looks, starting with my favorite—the pink gingham dress. Follow along with this tutorial to sew your very own Barbie Movie-inspired gingham doll dress!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

  • Pink gingham fabric with small squares (4-5mm or 1/8”)
  • Matching pink or white thread
  • Approximately 30cm of matching gingham ribbons in both 5mm and 1cm widths (for straps and belt)
  • A pink gingham ribbon bow (or create one using the 5mm ribbon)
  • White netting or tulle for the underskirt
  • Pearl seed beads (for the belt and necklace)
  • Jewelry headpin (for threading beads onto to create the buckle)
  • 2 poppers or snaps
  • Beading elastic for the necklace
  • Fray check or fray stop liquid

How to Make the Dress

Step 1: Make the Bodice
To create the bodice, start by downloading the pattern here:

[Barbie Movie Dress Bodice Pattern Download]

Cut out the paper pattern pieces and pin them onto your fabric. The fabric should be folded, with the front bodice piece cut on the fold. Pin the back panel pattern to the fabric and cut through both layers. Be sure to align the checks so they are vertical.

Using a removable fabric marker or fabric pencil, mark the positions of the bodice darts (the triangle shapes) on both the front and back panels. Apply fray check or fray stop liquid to all raw edges—gingham tends to fray quite a bit, so this will help prevent that and eliminate the need to finish the seams.

Next, sew the darts on the front and back bodice panels. To do this, fold the fabric right sides together and sew from the point of the triangle to the fabric edge. This will shape the bodice properly. Press the seams flat once sewn.

Step 2: Make the Skirt
For the skirt, I used the 10th Anniversary Medium Girl pattern from Requiem Art Designs, which is free with the purchase of another pattern. I also picked up the Country Classic Summer Dress pattern, as it has a similar vintage Barbie Movie vibe. I haven’t tried that one yet—my project list is just too long! I did attempt to figure out how to calculate box pleats, but eventually gave up!

You can find the pattern on Etsy when you buy another one.

The pattern piece you’ll need is called the 1-Piece Skirt. Cut the fabric accordingly, and make sure to mark the locations for the pleats, as this is an important step.

Apply fray stop or fray check to the raw edges of the skirt. Next, press a hem at the bottom of the skirt and topstitch it in place.

For the pleats, sew them together, but only stitch about 0.5cm down from the top. Repeat this for each pleat.

Once all the pleats are sewn, press them flat.

Step 3: Make an underskirt

Cut a piece of tulle or netting to match the depth of your hemmed skirt and twice the width. Sew two rows of gathering stitches along the top edge. Gently pull the threads to gather the tulle until it matches the width of the bodice.

Step 4: Attach the skirt to the bodice

Place the bodice on top of the skirt, right sides together, with the bodice facing down. Tack the pieces together by hand. If there’s any excess fabric in the skirt width, trim both sides evenly to ensure a neat fit.

Pin the gathered underskirt to the skirt (so it’s on the inside) and sew through all three layers to attach the skirts to the bodice. Press the bodice up.

Step 5: Finishing off

Fold the dress in half lengthwise and sew the back seam, stopping about 2cm below the waistline. Next, sew the poppers or snaps at the top of the bodice and at the waistline. Before attaching each popper or snap, fold the fabric that will be on top inwards. For a snug fit, mark where the other half of the popper or snap should go before sewing it in place.

Cut two lengths of thin ribbon and seal the ends with a flame (adults only) or fray stop. Place the ribbons on the front bodice, marking their desired position. Hand sew the ribbons onto the front. Repeat the same process for the back bodice.

Step 5: Accessories

Cut two lengths of thin ribbon and seal the ends with a flame (adults only) or fray stop. Place the ribbons on the front bodice, marking their desired position. Hand sew the ribbons onto the front. Repeat the same process for the back bodice.

VIDEO



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.