If you want to summon the doll within you, these plus size Barbie outfit ideas are a great way to make it happen.
Since first being produced in 1959, fashion figure Barbie has been known for her model-like physique, high-end style, and perfect smile. This household phenomenon was created by businesswoman Ruth Handler, who was reportedly inspired by watching her daughter Barbara and her friends role-play with paper dolls.
However, while Handler’s innovative approach to the market won the hearts of many, she sparked controversy around the world due to the lack of representation of curvy girls. Early Barbies were slim, and the features shown on the runway were not realistic for the average woman. This sparked controversy over the later addition of curvy toys to the lineup.
In 2016, Mattel, Barbie’s distributor, listened to inclusive demands and introduced a thicker Barbie design. The once-skinny model joined the diversity lineBut this too sparked controversy, with many questioning whether the image would “promote obesity” in children. Despite the uproar, today the multi-billion dollar empire remains one of the world’s leading doll brands.
The rise of the Barbie trend on social media
For years, we’ve seen Barbie on display in everything from matinees and merchandise to crowds and costumes. Beauty creators reached their height in the 2010s, when makeup tutorials for the character’s signature pageant looks flooded platforms like YouTube. Shortly thereafter, those same online personalities rode a wave of “let’s get ready together” videos in Barbie-inspired outfits.
Soon, it was trending. The Barbie influence continued to rise in social media content, but one thing remained constant: buxom women dressed as Barbie were not at the top of the hashtags. By now, we all know the internet’s inhumane obsession with shaming society for hiding obese people and trying to change their appearance. Whether it’s 2014 or 2024, users can’t understand that fat bodies are no longer limited to black clothing and that they don’t have to remain on the sidelines in fear of being seen.
As the body positive community has grown in size and profile, fat people have found solace in popular virtual movements. #Wear what we want to wear, Plus-size influencer Simone Mariposa made national news when she created the X (then Twitter) sensation in 2016. Through her cyber pro-plus size movement, plus-size women all over the world began to defy societal norms and carve their own path, especially in fashion.
The evolution of plus-size fashion has come a long way since the advent of the internet, and women with fuller figures have proven that a thick waist doesn’t matter when it comes to embodying Barbie’s famous aesthetic. In a world where Barbie is often seen as the golden standard of beauty, women of all shapes and sizes are proving that long-standing ideologies about what Barbie should look like have taken on many forms, with designers and retailers taking note to include plus-size options in their Barbie capsule collections.
At the same time, these portrayals have given girls on the small screen the courage to define their own standards of beauty, whether that be by wearing all pink or loving what they see in the mirror beyond what they’ve been led to believe. And today, we’re here to talk inspiration and plus-size Barbie options to awaken and make your inner Barbie a reality.
If you’re still excited about the 2023 live-action Barbie movie, then this is the perfect list article for you. We’ve rounded up the best plus size Barbie outfit ideas to embody the ultimate doll.
7 Plus Size Barbie Outfit Ideas Guaranteed to Make You Feel Like “That Girl”
Best of luck, Nina Parker! The media personality’s plus size line is a winner on every front, but this scuba blazer and pants set is hands down the best on BOMB.com! The satin-finish suit gives off 100% business suit vibes. The blazer is available in 2X and 3X. The pants are available in sizes up to 28W.
What better way to look like Barbie than to literally wear it? This customized Barbie print dress is the best outfit idea if you want to look like the pink beauty! Unique Vintage offers it up to size 20 for $110.
You can’t go wrong with a classic skater dress, especially this one from Torrid! The Mini Foxy Skater Tank Dress is priced at $45 and comes in sizes 12-30. The knit fabric is stretchy and has a fun, sexy fit that accentuates your curves in all the right places. Pair it with a sparkly pink jacket/vest, stylish pumps, and standout accessories, and you’re good to go!
Retailing for $39.99, this bodycon showstopper is sure to turn heads. With drawstring detailing on the front, this mini party dress is perfect for camouflaging your tummy and accentuating your hips. A great way to accentuate your sexiness. Available in sizes XL to 4X.
Tulle is playful. This Delaney Tulle Mini Dress is perfect for a day on the town… or hitting the bar. Sky-high stiletto heels will brighten your look and make you look stylish. This piece has a fit-and-flare bodice that flatters your legs, so you’ll be the only one looking hot while you wear it. Available in sizes XS to 3X. Your Ken is waiting!
Hear me out! The Keep Her Secrets Dress ($70.00) from Perfect Curves Boutique is a stage killer! All eyes will be on you in this form-fitting, fringe-designed dress. This tube dress is made from 89% polyester and 11% spandex and is available in sizes 1X to 3X.
“This knit wrap top is made from a super soft and cozy fabric with two-tone pink detailing and is adorned with a custom Barbie® pin by Canadian designer Biko, adding a touch of glamour to this outfit or any piece. “Available in sizes up to 4X, it’s sure to turn heads whether you’re wearing it to work, play or lounge.
Which of these plus size Barbie outfit ideas will you try? Let us know in the comments below!
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