Bad Like the Barbie: Margot Robbie’s Barbie-Inspired Press Wardrobe

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Jul 22, 2023

Margot Robbie’s press looks for the highly anticipated Barbie movie that released on July 21st, have taken its audience down memory lane and through the doll’s history. Margot’s looks include both referential ensembles to specific dolls that have existed over the years, as well as archives and recreations from designers to capture the Barbie essence that we know and love today.

However, this exhibition would not be possible without the brilliant stylist behind each carefully curated red carpet appearance. Even more so, it would not have been possible without Margot’s breakage out of her Chanel contract and former stylist, Kate Young, who has been styling her controversially and under restriction for years.

According to PAPER magazine, Robbie was named an ambassador for Chanel in 2018 and had almost been exclusively wearing the brand in her public appearances since. Then came November 2022, when she broke the internet wearing a Bottega Veneta gown, seeming to solidify her evolution beyond the Parisian house.

Not too long after, promotion for the Barbie movie began, and audiences began to witness styling with much more variety and esteem than before, likely thanks to her Barbie press stylist, Andrew Mukamal.

Mukamal has transformed Robbie’s image for the movie by thoughtfully pulling archives from esteemed fashion houses that emanate the Barbie aura, as well as direct referential recreations of vintage Barbie dolls and their ensembles, making this press tour one you cannot miss. Its combination of beloved doll and fashion house histories provides excitement to broad audiences, accumulating great anticipation for the movie and the aesthetics and fashion choices it will present.

Now, these Barbies are about to take you through all the looks Margot was seen wearing on the pink carpet, starting with student guest writer Nyah Khan’s take on the “Original Barbie” outfit!

Original Barbie (1959)

It's truly exciting to witness Margot’s homage to the very first edition of Barbie, seen at a Photo Call at Bondi Beach in Sydney. This doll was released on March 9th, 1959, as a tribute to the glamorous stars of the 1950s, such as Marilyn Monroe. You can certainly see this influence reflected in the doll’s features like the curled blonde hair, movie star silhouette, and Hollywood makeup.

Margot’s nod to the original Barbie doll is via a Hervé Léger dress she wore at her press tour stop in Sydney, Australia. The dress is reminiscent of the classic black & white one-piece swimsuit while adding a modern touch to the look. Margot embraces a more dynamic neckline, deviating from the original horizontal design, and opts for stripes straight instead of diagonal ones. These alterations create a modern feel and adjust the optical illusion that the original doll’s suit creates for her body.

Considering that the original stripe pattern was intended to highlight Barbie’s curves, I like to think that the recreation was adjusted to be more casually wearable, with less emphasis on Margot’s silhouette. This could be a nod to some of the themes within the Greta Gerwig movie– but I’ll let you check it out for yourself!

While undeniably a beautiful nod to the doll’s origin, this particular look may not fully embody the essence of Barbie that we know today. Amarissa, turn our attention to Margot’s London premiere look, where can explore a more iconic and quintessential image of Barbie!

Enchanted Evening Barbie (1960)

Picture this: at the London premiere at Cineworld Leicester Square on July 12th, our Barbie star stepped right out of the iconic 1960s Mattel "Enchanted Evening" Barbie doll box, looking like a dream. Can you say perfection? Just like her plastic counterpart, Margot Robbie shimmered in a blush pink satin corset dress, featuring a matching side train fit for a royal ball. And oh, the details…..a rose motif brooch nestled inside a flower-shaped orb, adding that extra touch of elegance. She really brought glamour to Barbie Land!

But wait, there's more. Our glamorous girl topped off her ensemble with a snowy white tulle stole and matte ivory opera gloves, giving us all the vintage vibes. And her hair? A chic updo with bangs, taking us back to the swinging '60s in style.

Let’s not forget the accessories. Margot strutted at the event in silver peep-toe jeweled Christian Louboutin heels, because when you're Barbie, you're always ready to dance the night away. Oh, and that multi-layered Assael pearl necklace and earrings? Simple and elegant!

Nyah, can you tell us about the red look Margot was spotted in that evening at the VIP photocall in London? What a switch-up!

Brunette Bubble Cut Barbie (1962)

After enchanting the audience with her breathtaking pastel pink look that evening, Margot switched her outfit from a gown to an equally stunning, yet refreshingly different vibrant red corset minidress. While wearing the color red may seem out of the ordinary for Barbie, this Dilara Findikoglu creation actually references the 1962 “Brunette Bubble Cut” Barbie, while completely infusing it with modern silhouettes and textures.

Although not a Vivienne Westwood design, the look certainly seems to draw inspiration from classic Westwood corsets and even echoes the neckline of the “Enchanted Evening” look seen earlier in the night.

A bit of a bolder look for Barbie, but we love it just as much! It’s a refreshing take on Barbie’s style, as this ready-to-wear look is perfect for the modern girl on a night out. The style of the mini dress is absolutely what’s in right now, solidifying Barbie’s status as a true “It Girl” in a more relatable and attainable way. Once again, perhaps this is a reference to the themes explored in the movie itself, but you will have to watch it yourself to dissect this reference!

But don’t fret! There’s certainly plenty of classic Barbie aesthetics throughout the rest of the Press Tour. Amarissa, talk us through Moschino Barbie in Seoul.

Sparkling Pink Barbie (1964)

Sure thing. On July 3rd, our Barbie actress dazzled the world (literally) at a press conference in Seoul's Four Seasons Hotel! She was a living, breathing vision straight from the archives of Moschino's Spring Summer 2015 collection, designed by Jeremy Scott, which was inspired by none other than the one and only Barbie doll herself! Talk about Barbiecore fashion taken to new heights.

The look: a 3-piece pink Moschino skirt suit adorned with sparkling crystals. The ensemble featured a sassy 60s-style short jacket, a flirty crop top, and a mini skirt, all shimmering in the most magical way imaginable. This modern take on the 1964 "Sparkling Pink" Barbie was like living in a whimsical dream!

Our fashion-forward star's stylist Andrew Mukamal matched this look with a pink pillbox hat and a heart-shaped purse, both from Moschino. As for her footwear, Margot walked in style in chic peep-toed mules by the one and only Manolo Blahnik! The Houramu mules, with their bright pink patent leather and scalloped shape, completed her look to perfection.

So what did Margot wear to the actual premiere? Let’s take a look.

Day to Night Barbie (1985)

At the Seoul Premiere, Margot owned the Barbieverse that day as she took us on a fabulous journey through time, channeling not one, but BOTH versions of the iconic 1985 "Day to Night" Barbie. This time, she meant business. Channeling the "Day" Barbie, she wore a pink power suit straight from Versace.

The pencil skirt was paired with a matching blazer adorned with fierce shoulder pads. And let's not forget that oh-so-chic dark pink scarf that added a touch of sophistication to the ensemble. Talk about commanding attention and being a boss babe, just like Barbie!

And there’s more. Our real-life Barbie took accessorizing to a whole new level, wearing a wide-brimmed white hat with a pink-and-white polka-dot band. The look was coordinated white pumps with pink pointed-toes and skinny stiletto heels. And that tiny pink handbag? It completed the look in the most charming way possible.

Speaking of attention to detail, she even carried around an '80s brick cell phone that was pink and bedazzled. Because, you know, a Barbie's got business calls to make.

From day to night, Margot flawlessly channeled both versions of the Barbie doll perfectly. Kicking it back to Nyah who will walk us through the stunning night look.

In contrast to Barbie’s “Day” look, the “Night” look ditches the cell phone and business attire and is ready to dance the night away! The elements of this look come together to tell a story of a Barbie that is lively, dazzling, and fun.

Just one of many Versace looks worn on this tour, Margot’s “Night” look stands as one of the most versatile and playful creations in comparison to some of the more sleek looks worn, such as the Sydney Celebration party and London evening looks.

Distinguished from the referenced doll, this ensemble once again features a change in the neckline, transitioning from a square neck to a sweetheart neckline. This alteration adds a sense of innocence to the look, capturing the essence of Barbie’s demeanor in the film itself. Gorgeous layers of tulle make up the skirt of the dress, conveying a more delicate, feminine, and ethereal style.

Stylist Andrew Mukamal's creative genius knows no bounds, as he was clearly not short on ideas for each of our girl’s looks. It’s been exciting to see how different each one is. Mukamal effortlessly curated a collection of looks that are both referential and fresh, paying homage to the Barbie doll, while infusing fresh and modern essence into Margot’s style.

Now, let’s venture into the gorgeous, vintage Hollywood glam for the Los Angeles premiere, inspired by a beloved doll from the 1980s.

Solo In the Spotlight Barbie (1989)

Standing as one of my favorite looks, the Barbie actress dazzled the Los Angeles crowd at the movie premiere in a shimmering, all-black gown with a standout unique silhouette. This gorgeous Schiaparelli ensemble is a recreation of the 1989 “Solo in the Spotlight” Barbie. The sequin-embellished gown caught the glimmering lights of the cameras, and so did the jaw-dropping 350 carats of Lorraine Schwartz diamonds that adorned Margot during this event. What an breathtaking look!

Choosing Schiaparelli to recreate this look was an excellent decision, especially considering their current success in the world of haute couture. Their touch perfectly aligns with the referential old Hollywood glamour, transforming it into a contemporary look. Los Angeles, California, being the heart of Hollywood, was certainly the ideal stage to premiere this creation.

Amarissa, walk us through Margot’s Mexico City fashion, which was in contrast to this dark glamour.

Earring Magic Barbie (1992)

When Margot stepped onto the vibrant streets of Mexico City to promote the movie, she brought a touch of '90s Barbie magic. Embodying the fabulous 1990s "Earring Magic" Barbie, the star was dressed in a pink leather corseted minidress designed by Balmain.

The pink leather minidress included sheer sleeves and a sheer neckline. Inspired by the doll, Margot's look was a flawless tribute to Barbie's timeless style.

Getting into the accessories, Margot's style guru, Mukamal, was on point with every detail. He coordinated the dress with pink Manolo Blahnik pumps and a chainlink belt, adorned with a star charm.

Adding a slight twist, instead of the classic sun-designed earrings as seen on the doll, our fashion-forward actress chose star earrings, adding her unique touch to the look. It's all about adding that extra sparkle to Barbie's magic, and Margot nailed it with this choice.

Totally Hair Barbie (1992)

Continuing her press tour in Mexico City, Margot channeled none other than the reigning queen of Barbie dolls—the 1992 "Totally Hair" Barbie. This Barbie holds the crown as Mattel's best-selling doll in history, selling more than 10 dolls worldwide— that's what we call superstar status!

Margot graced the pink carpet in a pink Emilio Pucci minidress, a perfect nod to the iconic "Totally Hair" Barbie's multicolor Emilio Pucci-inspired printed mini dress. Talk about a match made in fashion heaven.

Her hair was crimped to perfection, taking us straight back to the '90s when crimped styles were all the rage. Lastly, we can’t forget the pink pumps Margot wore, which perfectly matched her outfit.

Let’s head back to LA to talk about the 2000s Barbie Margot referenced.

Pink & Fabulous Barbie (2015)

At a photo call in LA, Margot reimagined the recent 2015 "Pink & Fabulous" Barbie with her unique twist. This Barbie brought a touch of Valentino magic to the mix.

Her ensemble featured a pink and white polka-dot wrap top with a halter neck and an empty cutout at the midriff—talk about playful elegance. The top gracefully met a fitted pencil skirt.

Styled just like her Barbie counterpart, Margot carried a yellow Valentino Garavani Rockstud Quilted bag, adding a pop of color and flair to her look. She also accessorized with a chunky beaded bracelet, which was a perfect choice for this playful look.

Barbie the Movie Collectible Doll (2023)

When Margot Robbie kicked off the Barbie festivities at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, she wore a Prada baby pink and white gingham crop top and skirt that was inspired by one of her Barbie character’s looks featured in the Greta Gerwig film.

This outfit has since been turned into a fabulous Barbie collectible doll, taking the magic from the big screen to a real-life!

Now that we’ve walked you through the various designs that drew inspiration from specific Barbie dolls, let’s talk about the ensembles that went beyond these references.

Nyah, can you tell us about the vintage Vivienne Westwood look?

Vivienne Westwood

For the London Photocall, Margot wore a Vivienne Westwood matching set with furry accessories to match. The look featured lots of Barbie pink and contrasting red details, adding a modern twist to the ensemble. The fur bag and shoes were made out of faux fur as designer Vivienne Westwood determined to make her brand vegan in 2007.

The juxtaposition of modern and classic details made this quite an interesting look, as we see classic hair and colors, with details and silhouettes that bring on a modern look for the doll’s image. Platform shoes are certainly trending right now as well as bows featured in designs such as the ones on Margot’s jacket. Even the jacket itself is a combination of things: blazer-inspired, but feminine with a sweetheart neckline.

Overall, the look is a chic, modern twist on Barbie– what I think she would be wearing today, anywhere from a savvy businesswoman or movie star hitting the red carpet!

Finally, let’s turn our attention to some pieces from Versace’s archives that were carefully selected for their unmistakably Barbie-like essence! Kick us off, Amarissa.

Vintage Versace (1994)

When it came to celebrating the Barbie movie in Sydney, Mukamal pulled out all the stops with not one, but two '90s-era metallic pink ensembles straight from the Versace archives. Margot was a vision of glamour and nostalgia, embracing the essence of Barbie's timeless fashion.

For Vogue Australia's Barbie celebration party at Sydney's Museum of Contemporary Art, Margot donned a glistening metal-mesh minidress from Versace's Fall 1994 collection that was first seen on Claudia Schiffer. The look was paired with see-through heeled sandals by Manolo Blahnik. Margot's choice of minimal jewelry kept the focus on the dazzling dress, allowing her to shine.

And shine she did! Nyah, what do you think of the second Versace look?

Images: Andrew Mukamal via Instagram / Richard Avedon

While not referencing a specific doll, this look certainly still screams Barbie! The look is from Versace archives, a photo shoot in 1994 featuring similar outfits of different colors. But, of course, the one that was pulled was the one in Barbie pink, second from the left in the Versace photo. What’s interesting, however, is the change of shoes from pink to blue, perhaps alluding to Barbie’s evolution in the film itself, straying away from the stereotypical Barbie style.

Overall, the look is once again Barbie re-imagined for the modern girl, which I think both fashion and media audiences will appreciate. This look features a sweater, skirt, and rather wearable heels, something that I could see many people being able to wear every day. As I have hinted at throughout this dialogue, this is something that is discussed within the movie– creating a version of Barbie that is more relatable.

Stylists are often considered the storytellers of fashion, and we believe Andrew Mukamal has told quite the story through the Barbie actress’s press appearances. Mukamal’s expertise and attention to detail beautifully referenced the Barbie dolls we know and love, showcasing Margot as a real-life embodiment of Barbie's timeless allure. Throughout the Press Tour, Margot’s wardrobe displayed a remarkable variety, showcasing not only the historical aspect of what Barbie has been but what she can be.

In each look, a sense of relatable everyday style shines through, despite the grandeur of the pink carpet. This relatability could very well be attributed to the film's overarching message, as it aims to convey the enduring spirit of Barbie in a way that resonates with audiences.

Not only has this styling changed the conversation around Barbie and the film, but it has also been crucial to Margot’s fashion revolution.

We look forward to following both Barbie's and Margot’s styles as they intersect and evolve separately as time goes on. And we can only imagine how nostalgic the movie will be for many!

What was your favorite press outfit and why?