When Zendaya walked into the Valentino show in an all-pink Valentino power suit during Paris Fashion Week, she set off a chain reaction, resulting in the mainstream adoption of the vibrant shade. Creative Director Pierpaolo Piccioli described it as “the color of love, community, energy and freedom.” Her hot-pink, double-breasted blazer; plunging, buttonless blouse; and trousers embellished with 3D floral appliqués presented as the look du jour, announcing Valentino’s Pink PP collection right before it debuted on the runway. Rife 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 involves further embellishment and playful, kitschy accessories reminiscent of the doll. Other celebrities have joined the “Euphoria” star in touting the look, specifically in luxury fashion brand Valentino.
Most recently, Dua Lipa traded her signature concert catsuit for a dazzling Valentino creation, complete with a sequin bra top, mini skirt and opera gloves. Meanwhile, Anne Hathaway’s sequined minidress at the brand’s Haute Couture show doubled down on the popular aesthetic, as did Ariana DeBose’s flower-appliqué minidress and Tommy Dorfman‘s sequined pants and sheer top at the same event. Meanwhile, Vanessa Hudgens and Lana Condor brought Barbiecore to the 2022 MTV Movie & TV Awards, clad in a plunging minidress and a bandeau top paired with a jacket and high-waisted shorts, respectively. Outside of the red carpet, the fashion trend has kept its presence with stars like 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 rarefied occasions, Barbie-inspired pieces can be combined with your current closet staples to create uniquely eye-catching looks.
Ahead, take some styling cues from the celebrities who pulled off the trend in Valentino.
