How to Turn Your Home into the Barbie Dreamhouse

Did you know there are 29,000 different shades of pink? This little-known fact comes from Dallas’ own pink-obsessed Real Housewife, Kameron Westcott—and a writeup in color theory from Art in Context. Pink is everywhere, and with the upcoming Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling hitting theaters July 21, the rose hue-focused Barbiecore trend is alive and well.

From Robbie’s own doll-inspired red carpet looks to the hot pink Valentino ensemble Anne Hathaway wore to the designer’s couture show last July, celebrities; TV stars, including Westcott; and plebeians alike are incorporating more fuchsia-toned touches into their everyday life. And their homes are no different. Many of our favorite brands have been bit by the pink-bug, too, releasing everything from rose-colored garden hoses to Barbie Dreamhouse–esque furniture and wallpapers, giving plenty of ways to add pizazz to any of your home’s spaces.

Philip Vanderford—owner of Studio Thomas James and Westcott’s own interior designer—says the best way to start is to layer in pink accessories of different formats for a pop of color, whether that be a statement piece for seating, lighting, or setting your table. (Shop the D Home editors’ picks down below). We spoke with Westcott and Vanderford on why they love the Barbiecore trend, their best advice on how to add a bit of Barbie-inspired fun into your home, and more.

Kameron Westcott, Living Room — Photographed during Christmas time, Kameron Westcott’s formal living room features a magenta Lee Jofa velvet-covered sofa, vintage Venetian chandeliers, pink curtains, and custom graffiti art by LA-based artist Tyler Ramsey. Elizabeth Lavin

What are your best tips for incorporating pink into your home’s decor?

Kameron Westcott: “Start small so your husband doesn’t notice. Once pink enters your house, it’s contagious! And I don’t think you have to commit to one shade of pink in a room. It’s fun to play different shades to give a room a completely different vibe.”

Philip Vanderford: “Pink can often feel too sweet when used alone, so pair it with something strong like black or other rich tones on accent walls, rugs, art, and accessories to counterbalance the mood.”

How can you make sure a pink-filled house works for your entire family?

KW: “Well, it’s always a good idea to find a husband that is color blind, but if that is not the case, you just need to make it a collaborative effort. Some pinks can be very masculine and modern in the right context and not every room needs to have pink in it.”

PV: “It’s about balancing the elements. There are several shades and personalities of pink—from soft, understated blushes to punchy flamingo and fuchsia tones that will energize a space. If a vibrant pink is incorporated into an edgy graffiti pattern with deep rich tones, the contrasting tones will offset each other and can even begin to feel masculine. I love that this color is beginning to be less stereotypical with fewer preconceived notions. Pink is no longer just for girls.”

Costa Christ, Courtesy of Studio Thomas James

Barbiecore inspiration from Studio Thomas James.

What are other colors or patterns that balance out pink?

KW: “I love using strong neutrals to balance my bright pinks. I prefer large prints over smaller prints to make a big statement. I do believe, though, that one can never have enough pink—and a metallic gold is right behind it!”

PV: “Black and burgundy balance pink well. The combination is striking and can elevate a space when working with a pink palette. These rich deep colors make pink feel a bit more grownup.”

What are you most excited for when looking ahead at the Barbiecore movement in interior design/fashion/etc.?

KW: “I am excited for the world to see that pink is not just a color but a lifestyle and a mindset. The world can be very hard and sad, and Barbiecore is a little escape from reality. And who can’t use that once in a while?”

PV: “I think there is an important message in the Barbiecore movement: When you quit trying to please those around you and embrace what moves you, you shine. This lesson translates to interiors. I love it when design is unapologetic and fearless. When your home has dynamic juxtapositions that reflect who you are, with personalized and storied objects that reflect your passions and show what you appreciate and are drawn to in this world, it becomes classic, effortless, and reflects confidence. That’s a great design.”