When Zendaya walked the Valentino runway show in a pink Valentino jumpsuit during Paris Fashion Week, it set off a chain reaction, resulting in mainstream adoption of the vibrant hue. Creative director Pierpaolo Piccioli described it as “the color of love, community, energy and freedom”. Her hot pink, double-breasted blazer; T-shirt with no buttons; and trousers embellished with 3D floral appliqués presented as the look du jour, announcing Valentino’s Pink PP collection just before it debuted on the runway. Filled with head-to-toe fuchsia ensembles, including Zendaya’s tailored uniform, the aesthetic was made even more dramatic with the addition of opera gloves and platform pumps.
Since that day, the catwalk-approved hue has given way to Barbiecore, which includes further embellishments and playful, cute accessories reminiscent of the doll. Other celebrities have joined the “Euphoria” star in promoting the look, most notably luxury fashion brand Valentino.
Most recently, Anne Hathaway’s patterned minidress at the brand’s Haute Couture show doubled down on the popular aesthetic, as did Ariana DeBose’s floral minidress and Tommy Dorfman’s patterned pants and sheer top at the same event. Meanwhile, Vanessa Hudgens and Lana Condor brought Barbiecore to the 2022 MTV Movie & TV Awards, wearing a plunging minidress and a crop top paired with a jacket and high-waisted shorts, respectively. Off the red carpet, the fashion trend has maintained its presence with stars such as Dua Lipa, who rocked hot-pink separates for a night out in London.
Once considered intimidating or shocking, hot pink is currently one of summer’s biggest color trends. No longer reserved for rare occasions, Barbie-inspired pieces can be combined with your current wardrobe to create unique eye-catching looks.
Ahead, get some styling tips from the celebs who rocked the trend at Valentino.
