From the moment the teasers from the movie Barbie were released, the colour pink – or should we specifically say hot pink – has moved out from being just another hue in the colour wheel to become a metaphor for all things over-the-top fun, fantastical or fashionable. The movie’s multi-million dollar marketing machine has ensured our love for Mattel’s iconic doll has turned into a fever, affecting all our lifestyle choices.
Say hello to Barbiecore, a trend that might find its roots in the synthetic world of the famous toy that preferred all things pink, but in the post-pandemic world, the trend represents a certain jois de vivre.
So if you wish to add a touch of that infectious joy into your home or go all the way to turn it into a Barbie dollhouse, here are some décor guidelines to get you started.
1. Pick pink… not any pink but a shade that is as close to Pantone’s PMS Rhodamine Red U as possible. It is in-your-face and accepting it all the way – from walls to décor – means it is not for the weak-hearted. So, if the thought is too overwhelming, play it safe by accentuating your living room with décor accessories such as cushions, wall art, curtains and some statement pieces that are of the hue.
2. All about the accent: Scared your living room might look like a page from a comic book? Don’t worry. Believe in the adage less is more while scouting for that ‘it’ piece. From a love seat or an accent chair to poufs or fluffy carpets, coupled with elements in sorbet colours and natural material, instantly give your space that luxe as well as fantastic-al vibe.
3. Childhood re-visited: It’s about time your home reflected a chilled out, fair-like ambience. Sprinkle cushions in fun shapes (remember those red lips shaped ones or those oversized heart-shaped ones you came across at the neighbourhood dirham store), fairy lights and picture frames with cute designs for instant doll-like drama. These are no longer considered tacky.
4. Scent does it: Sweet floral fragrances exude girly glamour like nothing else. So lay your hands on pretty candles and atomisers in pretty bottles or stone diffusers to for that perfect doll house touch.
