The world has been set aflame in hot pink.
The newest release of the Barbie movie, released on July 21, has been an absolute hit in theatres. It’s generated more revenue than any other since COVID struck and has even out-sold its twin, Oppenheimer. It delivers a powerful message about the identity of women, the original purpose of Barbie to empower girls, the patriarchy, and ultimately, about being Kenough.
For many of you who have felt a deep connection with this movie, pink has been a growing hot color. There’s a reawakened urge to dress like Barbie, act like Barbie, and even buy like Barbie. So, even in modern Beijing, many brands have collaborated with the movie to bring back the pink fiesta, but only for a limited period of time: here’s a guide to all the Barbie merchandise you can get in town!
- MINISO
Miniso, your favorite Chinese store brand, has a theme of pink, black, and white that they’re owning up to. They sell everyday items that are great for carrying around and showcasing your love for the film, whether it’s pens, bags, mugs, or earphones. They even sell clothes with the Barbie logo or pattern on them, such as socks or even briefs!
Even beyond that, there’s special catering towards the ladies, with items ranging from Barbie-themed razors to shave your legs with, and pink Barbie cans of moisturizing spray, to Barbie-patterned holographic makeup pouches that can bring a playful touch to your daily routine.
In most stores, these are displayed in a special corner. You can’t miss them!
2. Holiland (好利来)
It seems that food can be pink, too. Holiland has been releasing Barbie-themed pastries that are colorful and fun to eat, which can be a perfect snack if you’re craving something sweet.
Everything is colored black and pink here, which gives the impression of berries – which is right. There are Barbie Little Star pastries (the most portable and collectible, as they come in little boxes), Barbie cakes made in drinking glasses (just like the one Ken was holding), and a square Barbie cake that comes with cream and a little heart on top. All of these range from 20-40 RMB, and when bought, comes in a paper package that’s (surprise surprise) hot pink.
They really take their theme seriously, don’t they?
3. ZARA
The most exciting of these all, perhaps, is the ZARA collaboration with Barbie. And that’s because you can absolutely immerse yourself in the movie.
Thought Barbie’s swimsuit was cute? They have it! Liked her cowboy outfit? Try it on! Saw a pair of iconic sunglasses in the movie, and thought about having them? Here they are!
ZARA is absolutely riddled with Barbie-themed wear, following the cute theme of pink, black and white, topped by lots of glitter and sprinkles. They even come with Barbie logo tags that show that yes, they are Barbie merchandise. For extra fun points shown in the movie, some of these packaging come with labels that have MATTEL on them, which brings back some sinister points concerning Barbie and being trapped in boxes.
It’s perfect for anyone who wants to start dressing a little more pink – the Barbie paradise.
4. Barbie Jewllery (Barbie zhubao)
Located in 龙湖张营天街店，near Changying subway station on the 6th Line, there is a jewellery shop… and it’s entirely dedicated to Barbie!
Although this has been here for quite some time, the Barbie Jewellery is an entire shop dedicated to Barbie merchandise, all in the form of jewellery. Instantly greeted with a huge Barbie logo upon entering, the shop is lavishly decorated with pink and white, giving it a cheery feel for any who want to treat themselves to some fine jewllery. These range from earrings to necklaces to even watches for those who want a more practical item.
Other than these 3 major collaborations, Barbie merch is everywhere. Sephora has their own collection – sadly only overseas, which means any of you Beijingers out vacationing right now have the perfect opportunity to grab a lipstick case with cool words like Barbie Power written on it. Otherwise, while not directly a result of this movie’s influence, Hefang has been doing thier own Barbie collection on jewellery since 2021, and this movie gives the perfect opportunity to grab this rare item.
Barbie is a movie that has taught thousands of people that there’s nothing wrong with dressing, acting, and showing off a little pink. So check out these stores, and make sure to feel good about it!
Image Credits: Suah R., Meituan
