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:
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
15 BEST STYLISH SOCKS FOR LOAFERS
Loafers have long been a wardrobe essential for women, but they’re a standout trend going into 2025—especially when styled with socks! Women aren’t just pairing loafers with socks; they’re experimenting with a variety of sock styles: black, white, striped, thin, thick, patterned, or knee-high—you name it!
From fashion icons to everyday trendsetters, everyone seems to be embracing the look of visible socks with their loafers for that extra touch of style. The most popular choices? Classic penny loafers and trending lug-sole loafers, both with socks that make a statement. Today, I’ll walk you through 15 pairs of perfect socks to pair with loafers, styling ideas for each, and tips to complete your outfit.
OVER THE KNEE SOCKS
For a modern twist on the classic prep school vibe, try pairing over-the-knee, thinner tall socks with loafers. Amp up this look by adding a crisp button-down shirt, a miniskirt, and polished penny or tassel loafers for a timeless, sophisticated edge.
Or, take your little black dress up a notch by pairing it with over-the-knee socks and loafers in black or white. For winter, thicker cozy tall socks are perfect with a sweater dress and either lug-sole or simple loafers for warmth and style.
There’s something undeniably playful about over-the-knee socks with shorter skirts and mini dresses—it adds a certain je-ne-sais-quoi that makes the outfit stand out.
Patterened Socks
All-over patterns like plaid, polka dots, hearts, argyle, or other geometric designs are timeless and add a fun, quirky touch to any outfit paired with loafers. To keep it simple, try a minimal outfit with polka dot socks, or go bold by mixing contrasting prints for an eye-catching look.
If your socks are colorful, try matching one of their shades to your outfit for a coordinated effect. Opt for socks with embroidered or textured details to bring even more character to your loafers and complete the quirky vibe.
Knee Socks
If white ankle socks give your loafers a hint of private school prep, knee socks take it to the next level! Try dark knee socks to contrast with beige or white loafers, or go for a tonal look by matching the socks to your shoes.
For a bit more flair, opt for patterned or sparkly knee socks to elevate your outfit. When it gets chilly, switch to cable-knit or fleece-lined knee socks for extra warmth in fall and winter. And for a playful twist, choose knee-highs with a scalloped top edge—they’ll add just the right touch of charm to your look.
Wooly Socks
Nothing says cozy like a pair of thick, woolly knit socks with loafers during the fall and winter months. Beyond comfort, fuzzy or cable-knit socks add a warm, inviting feel to any outfit.
Try pairing soft, woolly calf-height socks with cuffed straight-leg jeans for a casual vibe, or style them with a mini dress and cardigan, finished off with chunky loafers.
For extra warmth, woolly over-the-knee socks are perfect with loafers on chilly days—wear them over bare legs or layered over stockings for added coziness.
Black Socks
Black socks are a versatile choice that pairs well with any color or style of loafers, making them especially chic with black, white, tan, or even pink loafers.
For different looks, go with thin black ankle socks, thicker black crew socks, or calf-height dress socks slouched at the ankle. In cooler months, a thicker wool pair adds warmth, while in summer, moisture-wicking active or cotton socks keep you comfortable and stylish.
Striped Socks
Striped socks—whether vertical or horizontal, dressy or athletic—are fantastic for pairing with loafers and adding a pop of color to any outfit. While men often style them with suits or jeans, women can absolutely rock this look too!
For a polished yet playful outfit, try tailored shorts, a tux shirt, colorful striped socks, and pointed-toe penny loafers. Or, go for a sporty vibe with black-and-white striped socks and bright white loafers, pairing them with jean shorts and a simple white tee or crisp shirt for a fresh, modern look.
Lace Socks
If you’re looking for a feminine sock with a touch of edge, lace socks paired with loafers are a perfect choice! Available in various colors, heights, and patterns—some with scalloped or ruffled edges—lace socks offer a unique style twist.
They create a delightful surprise when peeking out from under long jeans, adding a hint of romanticism to your look. For a more daring approach, roll up your pant hem to showcase your lace socks and make them a standout feature of your outfit.
Monogram Socks
For a socks-and-loafers look that channels menswear styling, consider logo socks. If you’re a fan of designer accessories, all-over monogram ankle or knee socks are a chic option.
With repeated designer logos throughout, these socks are sure to draw attention to your loafers! If a full-on monogram feels too bold, opt for socks with a simple accent logo, like those from Gucci or Balenciaga.
To keep your monogram socks looking stylish, match them to the tones of your outfit. Show them off with shorter hemlines or let them peek through ankle-length pants and midi dresses. You can style them pulled all the way up for a polished look or let them slouch slightly for a more relaxed vibe.
Sheer Socks
If fishnet socks feel a bit too daring for your style, consider opting for sheer socks as a softer, flirtier alternative to pair with loafers.
Tight black sheer ankle or calf socks are an excellent match for loafers, whether worn with ankle-length pants or pantsuits. For added interest, choose socks with subtle patterns, like minimal polka dots or larger designs.
For a summer look with a cute dress, try pastel or beige sheer loose tulle socks. To take it up a notch, go for quirky patterned sheer socks, such as polka dots or embroidered floral tulle options with sequins, to really elevate your outfit.
Ruffled Socks & Bobby Socks
Are you looking to channel some retro vibes in your fashion? Ruffled or frill socks, also known as bobbysocks, are perfect for achieving a nostalgic 50s look or a girly aesthetic.
You can find ruffled socks in bold styles with lace or more subtle options with a lettuce-edge finish, like those from UGG or the lightweight ruffle socks from Free People, available in various colors. Pairing frilly socks with penny loafers adds a youthful touch to a simple jeans-and-T-shirt outfit.
For a casual look, wear a floral sundress with bobbysocks and saddle or chunky loafers. Alternatively, style your ruffled socks with loafers and cuffed boyfriend jeans for a laid-back yet chic ensemble.
Contrast Color Socks
This is the perfect opportunity to inject a pop of bright color or neutral contrasting tones into your loafers. I love the idea of color-blocking simple loafers with the trendiest shades of the moment, like lime green, hot pink, or blush.
For an edgy look, wear a fitted black dress with black lug-sole loafers and white socks. Alternatively, try a floral midi dress with dainty tan loafers and playful pink socks. I’ve also noticed some stylish ladies wearing colorful socks over tights, which is a fun trend to experiment with!
To really showcase your contrasting socks, opt for shorter hemlines or a monochromatic suit. Pairing white or black socks with loafers can add a fun element to black-and-white outfits, making for a chic and stylish ensemble.
White Cotton Ankle Socks
Simple white ankle socks are a go-to choice for loafers, effortlessly conveying a private school uniform vibe. Dainty yet stylish, they complement both black and colored loafers beautifully.
For a chic look, pair them with cuffed or cropped straight-leg jeans and a cropped sweater vest over a crisp white shirt. Alternatively, style them with black chunky loafers and an all-black mini dress or skirt suit for an appealing contrast. I especially love the combination of white ankle socks with black-and-white outfits for a timeless and fashionable ensemble.
Fishnet Ankle Socks
Finding the right socks to wear with your loafers in the summer can be a challenge, but mesh or fishnet socks are perfect for achieving a stylish street-style look during those hotter months or transitional seasons.
These types of socks provide the illusion of wearing socks without the bulk or heavy coverage. I love matching them to the color of your loafers or choosing shades that are very close in tone for a cohesive look.
For a simple yet fashionable outfit, try pairing mesh socks with heeled or flat loafers and cropped wide-leg jeans. They also work well with a pantsuit, adding a touch of rock ‘n’ roll edge to your ensemble.
No Show Socks
No-show socks are the ideal low-profile option designed to be invisible when worn with loafers, making them perfect for maintaining the aesthetic of your outfit. They’re especially great for sleeker, single-soled, low-profile, or daintier loafers.
However, it’s best to avoid wearing no-show socks with women’s slingbacks or loafer mules, as they can be visible at the back, which defeats their purpose. Instead, opt for ankle socks or crew socks for a more polished look.
When choosing no-show socks, material is key. Look for cotton or cotton blend options, as cotton is a breathable, natural fiber that effectively absorbs moisture, enhancing comfort when wearing loafers.
Fit is equally important; the right no-show socks should fit snugly around the ankles and arch to prevent slipping and bunching up inside the shoe. Be sure to select a sock color that closely matches your loafers or one that complements your skin tone for a seamless finish.
Basic Crew Socks
White or black crew socks can effortlessly elevate your outfit when styled correctly! Also known as tennis socks or tube socks, these thicker, ribbed styles rise over the ankle and offer a sporty touch to your look.
Currently, crew socks are incredibly fashionable and can be styled in various ways: you can pull them all the way up for a polished appearance or slouch them down for a relaxed, off-duty vibe.
While they often come in classic white, crew socks are also available in black and a range of colorful options featuring contrast logos, like the iconic Nike Swoosh or Adidas trefoil.
High-fashion brands such as Alexander McQueen, Balenciaga, Burberry, and Versace are embracing the logo crew sock trend, adding a luxe flair to this sporty staple. Whether you’re dressing down or aiming for a chic look, crew socks are a versatile choice that can complement your loafers beautifully.
CONCLUSION
I hope this post has inspired you to embrace the loafer trend and experiment with different sock styles! Wearing socks with loafers is a fantastic way to stay warm and stylish during the cooler months, but they can also make a bold fashion statement in the spring and summer. Socks not only enhance your look but also help keep your feet dry in everyday loafers, making stiffer styles more comfortable to wear. So go ahead and have fun mixing and matching—your loafers and socks can be the perfect duo for any season!
