The concept of reinvention is undoubtedly well-grasped by the celebrity set. Wielded as a tool in the pursuit of relevancy for some and employed in a bid to showcase a changed state of mind for others, it is safe to say that our favourite personalities are constantly looking to shake things up. In fact, it is a phenomenon so celebrated that it has seamlessly integrated into day-to-day lexicon—see: Irina Shayk being in her vamp goddess era; the coquette-ish, bow-adorned aesthetic sported by Jennie to herald in Blackpink’s Born Pink World Tour; and Kylie Jenner flaunting a more natural make-up look in light of the clean girl trend that swept through the beauty realm. And yet, there proves no one more adept at metamorphosis than Barbie—the doll created by American toy company, Mattel.
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Barbie has worn many faces since her inception in 1959. Once publicised as a symbol of the hyper-feminine, Barbie has since undergone a massive revamp and garnered mass appeal. Barbie in 2023 is available in a variety of skin tones, hair textures, body types, disabilities, and fashions—all of which allows for children to “play out even more stories that reflect themselves and the world around them,” according to a press release by Mattel. This translates to toy dolls that embody healthier beauty and body standards while still exuding the glamour and playfulness touted by Barbie.
This is deftly exemplified in Greta Gertwig’s upcoming film, Barbie, which features Margot Robbie playing the titular character alongside a star-studded cast encompassing Issa Rae, Dua Lipa, Nicola Coughlan, and more. Barbiecore is well and alive in the released trailers—a coalescence of hot pink ensembles; majestic manes; and a heavy dose of sparkle on the lids and lips. In celebration of its impending release come 21 July, we at Vogue Singapore present a series of hair and make-up looks to don for those intrigued by the notion of Barbiecore. Everything you need to know, below.
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The statement fuschia lip
If there is one thing that has endured through the years of Barbie’s storied history, it is her signature fuschia lipstick. Let the look take centre stage by keeping the rest of your make-up pared down and minimal—Ant-man and the Wasp: Quantumania actress, Kathryn Newton, serves as an excellent point of reference. We say take a leaf from her book and go the whole hog by donning a complementing sartorial ensemble as well. You know Barbie would approve.
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The statement fuschia lip: Adriana Lima
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The statement fuschia lip: Lana Condor
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The voluminous high-pony
Barbie has never said no to a big hair moment. And while blowouts appear to be her preferred ‘do of choice, we prefer a more modern take on the gravity-defying ‘do. Enter: the statuesque high-pony. 2023’s rendition comprises a sleek, polished finish at the root and tons of volume at the crown, as seen at the Versace Pre-Fall 2023 show. This play on proportions allows for a hint of drama without delving into OTT territory, and serves as a solid foundation for inventive accessorising in the vein of glitter-embellished barrettes, hair tinsel, and more.
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The voluminous high-pony: Weisanto Fall/Winter 2023 Show
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The voluminous high-pony: Madison Beer
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The hair bow
One part girlish, and two parts refinement—a ribbon is the quintessential accessory for anyone looking to engage in Barbiecore. The best part about it is that the possibilities are endless with regard to placement and texture. For those looking to make a statement, take a cue from Sydney Sweeney with an oversized variant in a delicate fabric, like tulle. And for those who prefer a more playful take, look to Jennie from Blackpink by opting for multiple bows in pastel hues weaved through a whimsical configuration of braids.
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The hair bow: Jennie from Blackpink
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The hair bow: Irene from Red Velvet
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High-octane glitter eyeshadow
While Barbie has become synonymous with a specific colour wheel of pinks and pastels, that’s not to say that your make-up options are limited along a similar spectrum. Modern-day Barbiecore goes beyond that and delves more into a lifestyle—one that exemplifies allure, daringness, and confidence. And nothing conveys that quite like blinding shimmer over the lids. See: Hailee Steinfield, who channels archetypal Barbie from the days of old with a frosted pink eyeshadow look.
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High-octane glitter eyeshadow: Gigi Hadid
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High-octane glitter eyeshadow: Lizzo
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Blush draping
A healthy, radiant complexion is a given in Barbie’s books. And while a tailored skincare routine is sure to help on this front, you can also always fake it in the meantime by packing on blush strategically. That is, utilising a draping technique originating from the ‘70’s. To attain this look, simply contour with your blush instead of your bronzer. Begin by dusting colour in a ‘C’ shape starting from the temple area before moving it down toward the cheekbones, then extending it just slightly over the outer edges of your brows. For those who fear the more dramatic nature of this look, rest assured that the blush can be sheered out to grant a fresh-faced tinge of colour instead, as demonstrated by Yeri from Red Velvet.
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Blush draping: Dove Cameron
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