Barbiecore is the summer’s hottest and brightest trends! If you’ve been following me and Fashion Trends and Friends for any length of time, you already know that I’m a huge fan of all things pinkalicious, sparkly, glittery and extra since my earliest childhood memories. Perhaps the release of the movie today and all the buzz about it on social media has prompted you to jump on the bandwagon! My love of Barbie goes way back to my early girlie days. I had and still have many Barbies, Barbie accessories and would play with them alone and with girlfriends for hours and hours, day after day especially in the summers. I held on to many of my prized Barbie possessions and was able to re-enjoy them with my Granddaughter. It would fill my heart with joy to pull out my old Barbie belongs and combine them with her new Barbies, new accessories and watch the house become a totally Barbie explosion when she was over. My love of fashion is also associated with my happy memories as a girl and in every decade of my life! Embracing this Barbie trend and riding the Barbie bandwagon of FUN is totally my passion because I’m all about

FASHION * FRIENDS * FUN

The Ken doll is new and purchased for my granddaughter. My Ken doll did not age well (mold) and had to be disposed off! The camper was mine and is actually dated 1970, which is perfectly in line with the Malibue Barbie Movie of the ’70s! I couldn’t resist sharing them with you; and perhaps it is now time to either sell or give away my prized Barbie possessions! (Just between you and I, I might have had a lot of fun staging these pictures/playing one last time. My neighbors must have thought I was nuts!!)

As you can see, I still have the stool and plastic food/beer, Barbie Tray even the tent is still intact although slightly wrinkled from not getting used. Barbie’s pet Taffy is new.

The Barbie pool and all the pool accessories (chairs, floats, ball, inner tube) don’t have dates on them but I believe I got them around the same time as the camper so in the ’70s. I’m shocked that almost all of the items still inflate and hold air. The flamingo accessories and the Barbie are new.

Malibu Barbie Cafe – Chicago

California Dreaming! Malibu is making waves in Chicago this year with the Malibu Barbie Cafe. The minute I heard it was coming to town I knew I had to go and wanted to go with my girlfriend Cathy as I knew we would have so much fun together! Cathy accepted my invitation; and I began to plan my outfit…little did I know it would entail several outfits! We actually went twice; and Chico’s made picking our outfits super easy! On this particular visit, Cathy and I are in Chico’s from head to toe! Perfect looks for our Barbie immersive experience!

As soon as you step into the trendy cafe, you’ll be transported to 1970s Malibu California with a sea of poptimistic Barbie colors, laid-back beachy motifs, and lots of retro glam. Soak up the Cali vibes as you explore the immersive space inspired by Malibu Barbie, including an iconic life-size Barbie Box, made for snapping photos with your best pose.

🎀 Step into a full-size Barbie doll box with your besties…and make silly faces while posing like a Barbie!

Cathy and I wanted the tastiest pinkest drink on the menu! We went with the Cali Collins! It did not disappoint!

Outfit Accessories and Details Up Close

Chico’s has the BEST accessories that are unique, fun and always take the overall outfit up a notch! You know my thoughts on adding accessories – an outfit is never complete without them! The best thing about Chico’s accessories is that they are unique, well crafted and of great quality plus you’ll have them for years to come! I guarantee you’ll get complimented and asked where they’re from every single time!

Loved my beaded parrot sandals! The details are amazing! Did you catch the gold trim? I love details…they get me every single time! My camera bag was the perfect size to carry my essentials. I like the hands free crossbody strap for fun days out like the Malibu Barbie Cafe. It also has a gold chain strap to elevate the look! Having lots of options is always an added benefit!

Cathy’s sandals come in other color options. Her beaded bracelet stack can be worn together or separated to mix and match with other bracelets. The beaded stack comes in other color choices! Cathy’s tassel purse is also available in black.

Whether you’re a longtime Barbie fan, celebrating a special occasion, or just gathering with friends, this one-of-a-kind experience is perfect for making memories with your BFFs, kids, family, date, or girl squad. There were gals of all ages enjoying this fun experience! Cathy and I used to roller skate together in high school so it was fun giving it try again! I was not so sure about it but thankfully never fell! Cathy zipped right around the rink like we had done it yesterday!

FYI… It’s $1 to Skate! “All proceeds will be donated to Girls Inc. Chicago, an organization that delivers life-changing programs and experiences that inspire girls to be strong, smart and bold enough to overcome challenges. Your support ensures that girls in Chicago have opportunities and experiences to thrive in school and in life.” I love this so much! Always happy to help kids have the best shot at life and success! Plus look how cool these roller skates are!

Surfs UP! Cowa Bunga Dude! Well, I’ve never surfed in my life but there’s still time to try except that I’m not the best swimmer. However, Cathy and I are fans of Stand Up Paddle (SUP) Boarding and SUP Yoga! That counts for water activities! Would you agree?

Moments Inspired by Barbie

As you can see by our faces and the pictures, Cathy and I had an absolute blast together! We had so much fun that we ended up going twice! My granddaughter saw the pictures and requested I take her, which I jumped at the opportunity and went a third time! Life is too short not to go have the experiences and fun while wearing a cute outfit! Thank you Chico’s!

SHOP MY LOOK

CLICK HERE: Linen Off-Shoulder Cutwork Top

CLICK HERE: Embroidered Palms Pull-On Crops

CLICK HERE: Beaded Parrot Thong Sandals

CLICK HERE: Crossbody Camera Bag

CLICK HERE: Floral Single Strand Necklace

CLICK HERE: Neutral Leaf Drop Earrings

CLICK HERE: Tort Sunglasses

SHOP CATHY’S LOOK

CLICK HERE: Rainforest Print Pleat Front Maxi Dress

CLICK HERE: Cord Sandals

CLICK HERE: Neutral Crossbody Bag

CLICK HERE: Metallic Gold Tone Sunglasses

Let’s Chat

The Malibu Barbie Cafe is truly a fun experience for all ages so if you live in Chicagoland I highly recommend you grab your favorite gals and make a date of it! It’s only here until September. You need to make a reservation ahead of time on line. I believe there are also locations in New York and LA. Part of the fun is planning that perfect PINKALICIOUS look for the outing! Chico’s has many other pink options along with the outfits that Cathy and I wore! Are you a fan of the Barbie Craze? Since the movie comes out today, it was the perfect day to publish my post. Do you have plans to see it; or have you seen it already? Leave me a comment as I’d love to hear from you!

Credits

A HUGE THANK YOU to my gal pal Cathy for always being up to shenanigans with me! I love you girlfriend! What should our next adventure be? You can follow Cathy HERE

I wanted to credit my wonderful photographer Kelly! You can reach her HERE

(@kellyvanderploegphotography)

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Hope to see you in person! Come shop with me! Let’s have some

FASHION * FUN * FRIENDS before the new school year starts!