MAKE IT CUTE

Get in, GF: This dolled-up DIY adventure is *everything*. 

Can our fave do-it-all diva help you transform your room into a totally trendy (yet highly functional) happy hangout? Yes, yes she can. "The Dreamhouse was designed as an anchor, a foundation for Barbie's world," says Kim Culmone, global head of design for Barbie, Mattel, Inc. "Barbie's design style represents whimsy, joy and positivity."

Assuming it's been a minute since you last displayed your Dreamhouse, allow us to walk you through the aesthetics: plastic-inspired statement pieces, curated color combos (pink + teal = the comeback team of 2023) and an emphasis on fun, fun, fun. Simply put, this room makeover is Barbie-fied bliss.

Barbie Dreamhouse Pink, Backdrop | Capri Teal, Glidden | Distinct Purple, Kelly-Moore | Blissful Orange, Kelly-Moore | Hot Pink, Ellen Kennon

The prettiest palette

When revamping your space, your color story is coastal-meets-Candy Land plus vibrant pops of color (it's called Barbie Pink for a reason). Use these swatches as inspo for your next accent wall—or simply to curate your collection of Barbiecore pieces. 

Knot pillow, $145, Design Within Reach | Duvet cover set, $150, Trina Turk | Throw, $37, Unique Bargains | Cushion cover, $5, Shein | Pillow, $50, Trina Turk

Sweet dreams

A Barbie-inspired bed means bright hues and *lots* of layers. Snag a patterned duvet (geometric swirls for the win), then double the dreaminess with a contrasting set of pillow shams. Top with a textured faux-fur throw. 

"Barbie is all about self-expression, even if that changes rapidly. So set up your room so that you can easily change out accessories," suggests Culmone. Our fave way to do just that? Lots of throw pillows with interesting textures (love the cute chunkiness of a knot) and playful prints—swap 'em out as your preferences shift.

Lamp, $412, Vakkerlight | Pen holder, $8, Shein | Speaker, $28, Wetocke | Desk, $300, Everly Quinn | Chair, $184, Karat Home

Whimsical workspace

A v. important component of a Barbie bedroom? A well-designed desk. "Barbie has over 250 careers. So she needs a place to capture all of her achievements and interests and create space for those things," says Culmone. 

Start with a basic writing desk (get one with metallic legs for a fancy touch), then make it the perfect place for your latest passion project. Penning a novel? Set up your laptop and journal, add a glam gold lamp and tape your chapter-by-chapter vision board to the wall. Starting your jewelry-making biz? Do up your desk with a cute utensil organizer and jars for beads. You get the idea. 

Sculpture, $10, Addzoe | Ceiling light, $400, Possini Euro Design | Night stand, $179, West Elm | Chair, $210, Ana Lux | Mirror, $591, Burke Decor

Stylish statements

To finish the rest of your room, keep mid-century glam in mind. "Barbie's first house was designed in 1962, so a lot of the furniture that you see in her home is inspired by that period," Culmone explains.

Not sure where to start? "Take the parts of the Barbie brand you love the most, whether that's sparkle or pink or California vibes," Culmone advises. Opt for stylish functional pieces (like a pastel nightstand), standout seating (love a cozy chair), luxe lighting (fab fixtures instantly elevate the whole room) or just a playful touch (we see you, balloon dog). Now who's a Barbie girl, in a Barbie world?

Hey, girl! Just wanted to let you know that this story originally ran in our August/September 2023 issue.
Want more? Read the print mag for free *today* when you click HERE.

Slider and header image: @designattractor

by Lena Genovese and Kathleen O'Neill | 7/22/2023