Barbie Costume
Step into Barbie Land with the iconic pink gingham dress look.
This guide focuses on the iconic Stereotypical Barbie pink gingham dress look from the blockbuster movie. Barbie is a wildly popular costume choice for her bright, nostalgic aesthetic and instantly recognizable style. The look consists of a vintage-inspired pink and white gingham dress, matching accessories, and perfectly styled blonde hair.
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Time
- ~30 min
- Budget
- $35–90
Try it on
See yourself as Barbie
One clear photo of yourself; we render you in this costume — face untouched, full body, about 20 seconds.
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Want a different costume on this photo, or a whole group in costume? Open the Try-On Studio.
What you need for a Barbie costume
Short on time? Buy it ready-made
Spirit Halloween sells the complete Barbie costume — one box instead of 5 pieces.
Pink gingham dress
A vintage-style, fit-and-flare dress featuring a classic pink and white gingham pattern with shoulder straps.
DIY: Use a pink gingham fabric to sew a simple A-line dress or modify a plain pink dress with fabric paint.
White flower necklace
A chunky white daisy or flower-shaped statement necklace.
DIY: String together large white plastic flower beads on a white cord.
Matching gingham hair bow
A large pink and white gingham hair bow worn at the back of the head.
DIY: Tie a strip of matching gingham fabric into a bow and secure it with a bobby pin.
Pink pumps or sandals
Classic pastel pink pointed-toe heels or low-heeled slide sandals.
DIY: Wear any comfortable pink flats or sandals you already own.
White oval belt
A thin pink or white belt with a white oval buckle to cinch the waist.
DIY: Wrap a white ribbon around your waist and secure it with a safety pin.
Rather not assemble it? See ready-made Barbie costumes at Spirit Halloween ↗
How to put it together
- 1
Put on the pink and white gingham fit-and-flare dress, ensuring the shoulder straps are adjusted comfortably.
- 2
Fasten the thin white belt around the waist, positioning the white oval buckle front and center.
- 3
Clasp the chunky white daisy necklace around your neck so it sits flat against your collarbone.
- 4
Style your hair into a half-up, half-down look, securing the top section with the matching pink gingham hair bow.
- 5
Slip into the pastel pink pumps or low-heeled slide sandals.
- 6
Apply a bright pink lipstick and a touch of blush to complete the cheerful, doll-like aesthetic.
Makeup & hair
Style your hair in voluminous, retro waves, ideally in a half-up, half-down style secured with a gingham bow. Keep makeup bright and fresh with flawless skin, soft pink eyeshadow, a sweep of pink blush, and a classic pink lipstick.
Barbie for couples, groups, kids & more
- couples
- Pair with Ken in his matching pastel pink and white gingham button-down shirt or his neon rollerblading outfit.
- group
- Have friends dress as different Barbies, such as President Barbie, Weird Barbie, and Physicist Barbie.
- kids
- A miniature version of the pink gingham dress with a matching hair bow and flat pink shoes.
- Plus size
- Look for a stretch-cotton gingham dress with an A-line silhouette that offers comfortable movement and a flattering fit.
- pet
- A small pink dog tutu or a pink gingham bandana for your furry companion.
Tips
- Choose low-heeled pumps or stylish pink flats if you plan to walk or stand for long periods.
- Bring a light pink cardigan or denim jacket to stay warm if wearing the costume outdoors in cool weather.
- Strike stiff, doll-like poses with straight arms and a perfect smile for photos to enhance the character.
Barbie costume FAQ
- What dress does Barbie wear in the movie?
- Barbie's signature outfit is a vintage-inspired pink and white gingham dress with a matching belt, daisy necklace, and hair bow.
- How do I style my hair for a Barbie costume?
- Create a voluminous half-up, half-down hairstyle with soft retro waves, and secure the top half with a pink gingham bow.
- Can I make a DIY Barbie costume?
- Yes, you can easily assemble this look by pairing any pink dress with a white flower necklace, a pink hair bow, and pink shoes.
Did you know? The pink gingham dress worn by Margot Robbie in the movie was inspired by vintage 1950s fashion and classic Barbie doll designs.