Sartorial tips from a doll that style critics labelled a fashion disaster? Sure, why not? Six decades after her birth, the world is waking up to the fashion icon that is Barbie, says M. Shreya*, a true blue Barbie fan.
Most of us have definitely felt heartbroken at one point or the other whenever the world bestowed condescending remarks on our favourite childhood companion. But our dear Barbie has taken barbs like ‘blonde bimbo’, ‘anorexic beauty’ and ‘bleached bombshell’ in her stride and marched into the hearts of millions. And contrary to the epithets she has been tagged with, there are a number of fashion lessons to be learnt from Barbie.
Perfect proportions
Barbie has been dismissed casually on many occasions and criticised heavily on others for her size zero fixation. What have gone unnoticed in this brouhaha are her other assets: her endlessly long legs, voluptuous bosom, impressive height and enviable waist. While achieving a Barbie like figure may not be feasible or wholly desirable, her almost perfect proportions definitely do egg us girls on to sweat on the treadmill and dump those delectable French fries to get back in shape.
Voluminous mane
Even her harshest naysayer would agree that her long, lustrous locks are to die for. And while most of us are busy chop-chop-chopping our curls off citing lack of time, Barbie has been the brand ambassador for luxurious tresses. Her hair has grown in length, volume and lustre over the years inspiring us to try and achieve Rapunzel like locks.
Poise and confidence
Right from her blonde chignon to her pedicured feet Barbie oozes charisma and poise. Flexibility seems to be her middle name. Dress her in a blingy lehenga or drape her in a saree; adorn her in a ballroom gown or put her in a bikini, the Mattel maiden is completely at ease with her sexuality in any look. Her confident demeanour does teach us that comfort and attitude are the keys to sartorial success. So flash those pearlies, put your best foot forward and conquer the world.
Working the neons
From florescent pinks to dazzling greens and yellows, no one carries off neon colours and bold patterns better than our miniature fashionista. Bright colours become Barbie and add an extra edge to her personality. The graphic prints and glittering colours in our wardrobe owe their existence partly at least to the Barbie influence.
All important Accessories
Her best accessory may be her arm candy Ken but her elegant clutches, the belts in metallic hues, vivid pumps and booties make quite a statement by themselves. Barbie’s amazing collection of assorted accessories to complement each ensemble emphasises how important it is to garnish apparels with colourful titbits. It is time to replace our one-for-all handbag and monochromatic jewellery set with a healthy variety of vibrant trinkets and totes.
Real life Barbies
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Katrina Kaif – she is the chosen one. Mattel Toys India recently created a Barbie doll resembling the actor’s innocent and seductive looks. Kat represents the new breed of superstars who are go-getters and wear their attitude on their sleeves. Coming into the industry without a godfather and achieving the pinnacle of success makes her the perfect brand ambassador.
Paris Hilton – She is often compared to Barbie with her long blonde hair, slim figure, extensive wardrobe and her love of pink. But she is no brainless beauty. After dabbling in singing, modelling and acting the hotel heiress has proved her mettle as a businesswoman with successful forays into the world of perfumes, shoes and clothes. Controversies may stalk her day and night but this socialite is in no hurry to slow down, just like Barbie.
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