
The Barbie aesthetic is making a comeback, because of the extremely anticipated Barbie movie directed by Greta Gerwig. This development has captured the curiosity of many, however not like another tendencies, it’s inclusive of Black hair. Whereas the Barbie ponytail has been a long-time favourite for some, the discharge of the brand new movie has sparked a surge in Barbie-inspired model. Collaborations with manufacturers like Crocs and Aldo, in addition to a rise in searches for “Barbie-inspired outfits,” have introduced magenta mini clothes and rose-colored heels into the highlight.
Nonetheless, it’s Barbie’s hair that stands out probably the most. The excessive, slick Barbie ponytails have developed through the years with slight modifications, however their inspiration nonetheless primarily revolves across the authentic doll and Caucasian hair varieties. The primary Barbie doll, launched in 1959, featured a ponytail with bumped ends and a mullet-like fringe. Within the new movie, Margot Robbie is seen with a revised model of the unique look: a modern half-up, half-down coiffure with a braided low ponytail. This playful twist on a traditional up-do has gained consideration, resulting in a big enhance in searches for “Barbie ponytail” on platforms like Pinterest and TikTok.
The hype surrounding the Barbie ponytail has given rise to new variations of the model, such because the side-swoop pony, a tightly slicked-back pony, and kinds with creative child hairs framing the hairline. The most well-liked search for summer time 2023 includes flicking out the ends of the hair for the total Barbie impact. Nonetheless, the query arises whether or not this development is inclusive for all hair varieties. Barbie has confronted criticism through the years for missing variety and selling unhealthy societal stereotypes of desirability. In response, Mattel launched a line of Barbies in 2016 that aimed to symbolize a extra various society.
In relation to recreating the Barbie ponytail, it’s sometimes simpler on caucasian hair on account of its malleability and fewer curls. Nonetheless, many ladies of colour have embraced the development regardless. TikTok has performed a optimistic position in difficult stereotypes concerning the versatility of sure hairstyles.

Because the Barbie model embraces a brand new period of inclusivity, with the movie that includes dolls of varied races and physique varieties, the Barbie ponytail development has additionally turn out to be extra various. Black customers on TikTok have gone viral with embellished and inventive interpretations of the Barbie ponytail. Whereas related kinds have been worn by Black celebrities prior to now, this development feels important because it turns into a part of a broader hair development that’s inclusive of Black hair.
The recognition of the Barbie ponytail is because of its simplicity. Many individuals are drawn to one thing that’s easy but trendy. In contrast to different vogue tendencies or self-care routines that require further effort and new expertise, making a ponytail is one thing that almost all of individuals can simply do.