Celebrities from Anne Hathaway to Zendaya have been rocking pink this summer in hues both hot and pastel in a trend dubbed “Barbiecore” in anticipation of the 2023 Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling.
Children of the 1980s will remember Barbie’s slogan, “We girls can do anything.” And Barbie sure did a lot, from astronaut to veterinarian, all in varying shades of pink.
Pink is powerful. Pink is professional. So how can you bring some of that energy into your projects?
Lizzo is the latest celeb to hop on the #barbiecore trend ✨⤵️ https://t.co/rvJOpjI2Qx
— Teen Vogue (@TeenVogue) July 20, 2022
The Barbiecore trend is a great opportunity to broaden the color palette for the workplace, says Taylor Borst, director of marketing, events & PR with American Solutions for Business.
“Employees definitely have much more freedom than they even had five years ago when it comes to how we deem professionalism and today’s professional woman,” she says. “They’re not just conforming to the female cut of menswear.”
Pink is definitely not just a trend for women, adds Borst.
“People forget that Ken is also part of the equation,” she says. “I think it’s expanding the color palette of what men might be comfortable with, too, and this is a great opportunity to play around with their personal style.”
Cindy Tsuji, senior account executive with Image Source, says she is loving this trend—although she admits she wasn’t a big fan of pink until the pandemic, in part because the traditional binary of feminine versus masculine tended to limit people’s options.
And pink works with a lot of 2022 trends beyond Barbiecore, including the bright, mood-boosting hues of Y2K style (just ask Martha Stewart).
14 Grown-Up Ways to Embrace Summer’s Barbiecore Trend https://t.co/gdIiDOZ4p3
— Harper’s Bazaar (@harpersbazaarus) July 18, 2022
“Pink makes you smile. Pink is a joyful and happy color during dark times,” says Tsuji. “It also represents breast cancer awareness, and that is a cause close to my heart.”
People are looking for positivity after struggling through the pandemic—in fact, “in the pink” is an old-fashioned way of saying someone or something is in optimal condition.
“I think this trend will last as long as people are looking to be hopeful, playful and powerful,” adds Tsuji.
Here are a few recommendations for brandable apparel with pink power:
Custom socks have been around for quite a while, but Borst says socks are an easy and a fun way to literally dip your toes into Barbiecore. Go for a pop of color with these Stock Ready Premium Quality Argyle Dress Socks, which also offer custom embroidery mid cuff. Unisex one size (7-12) fits most adults.
ImprintID / PPAI 576424, S5 / www.imprintID.com
The trendy Hip Bag – Canvas-Denim comes in several shades of pink and can be made fully custom. Designed for on the go, this bag will help you keep everything organized while you run out the door on your next adventure. Lined interior.
Numo / PPAI 112597, S9 / www.numomfg.com
Color Club offers bio-sourced, eco-friendly, antimicrobial nail polish in several shades of pink, including this Wild Orchid Naturally Nail Polish. Bottles and caps are made of 100% recycled materials. Custom PMS matching available (requires a preproduction sample).
WOWLine / PPAI 112440, S4 / www.wowline.com
The Vansport Sandhill Dress Shirt delivers all-day comfort and moisture management with a 95% polyester/5% spandex performance weave that is machine washable. It features mini check stretch poplin and a modern spread collar with removable collar stays. Available in S-5X.
Vantage Apparel / PPAI 113235, S10 / www.vantageapparel.com
Look for pieces designed specifically for women, advises Borst. “I love when apparel from the promo space seamlessly fits into my existing closet,” she says. “It really should blend right in, be unrecognizable and fit within a lifestyle.” Check out this Devon and Jones Ladies’ Perfect Fit Tailored Open Neckline Top (shown in charity pink) for a modern feminine shape in a soft modal blend that drapes without clinging. Longer length provides coverage for everyday activity and movement. Available in XS-3X.
Alphabroder Canada / PPAI 156960, S12 / www.alphabroder.ca
The Women’s Stratus Puffer Jacket (shown in fuschia pink) comes with insulation and a top stitch design that provides a little accent to stand out from the rest. Water and wind resistant, this piece is guaranteed to keep you warm in hot pink. Available in S-5X.
Fossa Apparel Inc. / PPAI 330885, S1 / www.fossaapparel.com
