Doll-ing up the runway: why designers are introducing 'Barbie shoes' to their collections

Picture the always fashionable and chic Barbie doll, then imagine her cute high-heeled shoes. Now, you can wear those same shoes as some of the biggest designers this season have added them to their collections.

by Jari Putteman

Yes, you read that right. The iconic doll with the impossibly tiny waist and the never-ending legs has inspired a new trend in footwear, and we are here for it.

But what do Barbie shoes have to do with fashion trends today, you ask? A trip down memory lane may provide some answers. With the Y2K nostalgia that’s been tugging at our heartstrings for a while now, adults around the globe are keen on revisiting their childhood memories. And let's face it: years ago, Barbie was a staple for many of us - a symbol of beauty that we dreamed of emulating.

Also, let’s not forget about the upcoming release of the Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, which has sparked the rise of the so-called 'Barbiecore' aesthetic. Flaunting the same girly-girl vibe as Barbie's universe, this subgenre of the Y2K fashion trend explores hyper-femininity in all its rose-tinted glory. Expect lashings of pink tones, stilettos for days, and lengthy nails to match your dolly's outfit!

But beyond the trendiness, there IS a deeper significance to Barbiecore. Barbie has long been criticized for perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards and promoting a narrow view of femininity. However, in recent years, the beach-blonde Malibu babe has undergone a transformation, with the introduction of more diverse body types and skin tones. In 2022, Mattel even expanded its diverse Fashionistas line and added dolls with prosthetic legs and hearing aids. On par with Mattel's mission, Barbiecore wants to break down stereotypes and make a statement on feminism. And by incorporating elements of Barbie into their designs, designers are able to celebrate this newfound inclusivity and diversity in their own way.

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