In Barbie, Margot Robbie – stereotypical Barbie – journeys from ‘Barbie Land’ into the ‘Real world’. Throughout this physical journey, a fashion progression occurs. Going from magical-fantastical-ideal ‘Barbie Land’ to dull-ruthless-reality ‘Real World’ is a sizeable quest – one that is reflected in Barbie’s wardrobe.

Stereotypical Barbie

In Barbie’s opening scene she is seen in a light pink, gingham, A-framed dress. Cut to her knees, the full skirt creates a very classic, timeless look – appropriate as she is ‘Stereotypical Barbie’. Her hair is voluminous and long, in an almost unachievable fashion. Whose hair is really that perfect all the time? This sense of unattainable perfection is carried throughout the film, representing the lack of realism in ‘Barbie Land’. It’s fictional for a reason, and the Barbies themselves are aware of this. In reality, Barbie’s dress might fly up from wind, her heels would cause blisters, and the sizeable jewellery (earrings and necklace) would weigh Barbie down – literally.

Reality sets in

When Barbie starts to experience influences from the ‘Real World’ – flat feet, thoughts of death, cold showers – her outfit reflects this. No heels, obviously, cream shorts and a matching V-neck, sleeveless shirt. The lack of Barbies signature colour, pink, alerts the viewer that something is not quite right. In place of pink – is blue. Blue stripes to be precise. In this scene, Barbies’ ensemble has a sailor-esque tone to it. Perhaps foreshadowing the harrowing journey she is about to embark on. Furthermore, her hair is short and curled. No long, straight, thick blonde hair like usual. These slight differences – short hair, lack of pink, little jewellery – further emphasise the rift between ‘Barbie Land’ and the ‘Real world’.

Entering the ‘Real world’

‘Wow’ would be the correct reaction to this outfit. Barbie’s first entrance to the ‘Real world’ is quite striking. Robbie and Gosling are paired together in matching neon ensembles; Barbie in 80’s inspired hot pink tights with a psychedelic-print leotard. Ken in matching shorts and sleeveless jacket. Both with lime green roller-skates and matching hats. Having just come from ‘Barbie Land’ where all is perfect and idyllic, the pair should feel comfortable in their possibly-quite-cute skating outfits. However, as we all know, the ‘Real world’ is far from the oasis, that is ‘Barbie Land’. Whilst rollerblading through Venice beach the pair – mainly Barbie – are judged, called names and mocked. This causes Barbie to have a revelation; Barbie didn’t fix humanities flaws.

Return to ‘Barbie Land’

Barbie returns from reality in a pastel dress-and-jacket outfit in the colours blue, pink and yellow. Compared to previous outfits we have seen her in, this one is quite muted. Perhaps reflecting how small she feels. The ‘Real world’ is mean, and Barbie couldn’t fix it. She was insulted and mocked by the people she thought she helped. However, despite her realisations, she is persistent to return ‘Barbie Land’ to its correct way; not the ‘mojo dojo casa’ way. Her determination is shown through her put-together, structured outfit. Interestingly, Barbie’s hat – featuring a bow on the back – seems reminiscent of a classic suffragette ‘uniform’. This similarity makes sense as Barbie is now fighting to return ‘Barbie Land’ to its former glory; where everyone is free to express themselves and no-one is shunned out.

Back to the real world

As Barbie sets things right in ‘Barbie Land’ and prepares to permanently return to the ‘Real world’, she wears a simple yellow dress. The frame of the dress is tighter, more casual, than her typical A-frame. Symbolic of her journey; she is entering reality now. The elegant heart shaped locket further exemplifies the shift in reality, contrasting with Barbies regular sizeable necklaces. She is changing; not only physically becoming human but emotionally becoming human. Colour-wise, the soft pastel yellow is reminiscent of Barbie’s usual colour palette yet without her signature colour; pink. Yellow means curiosity, optimism, cheerfulness. All significant aspects of Barbie’s passage. Barbie still sports heels, but this time simple white wedges. Her hair is blown out and clipped into a half-up half-down style. She is not perfect stereotypical Barbie anymore, she’s human.