Barbie-inspired pink power: How to wear spring’s biggest beauty trend

Pink was popping all over the spring/summer catwalks, with make-up artists at the big four fashion weeks jumping on the #Barbiecore bandwagon that has swept through the worlds of fashion and beauty.

“With the much-anticipated Barbie film starring Margot Robbie due for release in July and Pantone announcing Viva Magenta as 2023’s Colour of the Year, it’s clear that hot pink is in,” says Grace Vernon, head of global trends and cultural insights at Boots and No7 Beauty Company.

 “Look out for the iconic ‘Barbie ponytail’ alongside bright pink eyeshadow, blush and lipstick, and hot pink nails.”

Here’s how to try the rose-tinted trend from lids to lips…

Fierce fuchsia was the shade of choice at Paul & Joe in London, and Alice + Olivia in New York, where lids were daubed with matte cream shadow, but you don’t have to choose such a bright pink for your peepers.

“For a truly on-trend way to wear pink on the eyes, opt for a blue-toned shade with a subtle satin finish, giving it more of a grown-up look,” says Jasmine de Souza, education manager at 3INA.

Yves Saint Laurent Dessin du Regard Waterproof Eye Pencil in Arcade Pink, £19.55, Escentual

“Blush is already having a moment, with sales of blush palettes at Boots increasing by 113% last year,” says Vernon.

At Chet Lo SS23, MAC make-up artist Terry Barber placed acid pink blush high up on the temples in an Eighties homage.

Chantecaille Limited Edition Wild Meadows Blush, £64

Pink lips on the catwalks ran the gamut, from glossy bubblegum (at Vivienne Westwood) to fuchsia (Paul Costelloe) and matte magenta (Carolina Herrera).

Hourglass Unlocked Satin Crème Lipstick in Reef 300, £37, Net-a-Porter