I’ve been really intrigued by the whole Barbiecore trend recently. With the end of the pandemic, an increased desire for maximalism, Pantone’s “Color of the Year 2023” being Viva Magenta, and the highly anticipated “Barbie” movie coming out this summer (I literally can’t wait lol). Barbiecore seems to be sticking around for longer than expected. As for me? I’m obsessed with hot pink and every neighboring shade. It’s loud, optimistic, strong, and eye-catching. Slay!

When conceptualizing this editorial I wanted the photos to showcase the idea of the Barbiecore fashion trend (monochromatic pink outfits) in a literal, campy, and obnoxious way, but I was also seeking to say more. These photos are my take on the idea of Barbie and Ken being alone and bored during the holidays while knowingly trapped in their all-pink simulated reality. In most of the photos they seem to be getting into shenanigans and entertaining themselves, but in some shots they’re staring vacantly right back into the camera as a way to express that they know there is more out there besides their perfectly plastic pink world (low-key, it’s giving Toy Story lol).

I’m really proud of this project and I’m so proud of my two collaborators who helped pull it off. As all creative people know, sometimes it’s a TOTAL slay and sometimes it’s a TRAGIC flop. When I think about my past projects (all the slays…and all the flops), I do find one thing is key to a successful shoot: detailed communication. When everyone is on the same wavelength it really just makes the entire process so much easier and enjoyable. With this project all three of us knew EXACTLY what was going on at all times and I definitely see those results in the photos below.

I can’t wait to see what’s next for Barbiecore as I’m sure it’s only going to gain traction in 2023! Thanks for reading and always remember: It’s not about looking hot, it’s not about being cool, it’s about creating images that make the viewer feel something; an image that is interesting to look at, to study, to question.

Photography: Sumner Howells

Makeup Artist: Rachel Bray

Styling & Concept: Me