Barbie has had many careers in the five decades since her inception, from soccer player, to Instagram influncer, and of course, fashion model – a job title she’s held since 1959. Still, despite her satorical prowess, one fan thinks Barbie’s lewk could do with an update.
Caroline Helson, from Antwerp, Belgium, is not here for Barbie’s stereotypical pink, sparkly outfits, and has decided to give the queen of the dolls a luxe makeover.
The 17-year-old student has made a name for herself modernising Barbie’s closet with mini replicas of catwalk collections, including high fashion looks from Versace and Dior.
Impressively, Caroline began crafting her delicate designs at just 13-years-old, and their amazing accuracy has garnered her 6,000 followers on Instagram.
Her creations include a scarf worn by Cara Delevingne for Burberry, a Versace dress donned by Gigi Hadid, and a pair of yellow trousers Kaia Gerber modelled for Calvin Klein.
Although her followers are consistently stunned by her small style icon, the fashion world has also taken note, with her creations landing on the cover of Love magazine. In an interview with the British style bible, Caroline explained the motivation behind the project.
“We really disliked all the pink, glittery outfits the Barbies wore, so I started making cooler outfits that reflected more what I wanted to wear, designer outfits.
“I taught myself how to sew and with a lot of patience I ended up sewing the way I do now.
“I usually first find a look in a magazine or on Instagram that I’d love to wear or that intrigues me. While looking for an outfit I keep in mind what kind of fabrics I need to recreate it.
“My mini outfits are always recycled from old clothes or jewellery. Every outfit is a new challenge because of the differences in fabric, structure…but I love a little challenge. I choose a doll, make a pattern and sew along.”
Stylish and ethical? It looks like Barbie really is moving into the 21st century!
