Birthday, Blog, Fandom Fun

How To Throw A Barbie Party In 8 Easy Stiletto Steps

Barbie is back, and she’s never looked more fabulous. With the world swept up in Barbiecore, thanks to the blockbuster movie starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, it feels like everyone’s inner doll is ready to step out in pink stilettos. Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, a hen party, or just a girls’ night in, there’s never been a better time to throw a Barbie themed party that’s as bold, bright, and over the top as the Dreamhouse itself.


🕒 Time to read: 32 minutes


But here’s the thing: a truly unforgettable Barbie party isn’t just about pink balloons and plastic tiaras (although, let’s be honest, they help). It’s about creating a world where your guests feel like they’ve stepped straight into Barbieland, where every detail, from the shimmer of the tablecloth to the playlist pumping out Aqua and Dua Lipa, is sprinkled with a little bit of magic. Think Malibu sunsets, glittering pool parties, and that sweet scent of strawberry treats in the air.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through eight stiletto-stepping stages to help you plan your own Barbie party, packed with real life examples, creative ideas, and practical tips. I’ll share inspiration from TikTok trends, UK and US based party pros, and even a peek inside the actual Barbie Malibu Dreamhouse (yes, the one you can rent on Airbnb!). You’ll find everything from outfit inspo to DIY décor, games for every age, and food and drink ideas that’ll have your guests saying, “Life in plastic? It’s fantastic!”

So, grab your sparkliest clutch, pop on your favourite Barbie playlist, and let’s get planning. Whether you’re a lifelong Barbz or just here for the glitter, this is your invitation to go all out. Croeso i Bartiland – welcome to Barbieland!


Step 1: Choose a Barbiecore Party Outfit

The first rule of a Barbie party? There’s no such thing as too much pink, or too much fun. Once your invites are out and your guests know where to be, it’s time to set the tone with a dress code that’s as playful or as extra as you like. Whether you’re hosting a birthday, a hen party, or a just because get together, dressing up is half the magic.

Barbiecore fashion is all about embracing your inner doll. You don’t need an official Barbie costume, just a willingness to go bold, bright, and unapologetically glam. Think layers of pink, sparkly accessories, and a dash of nostalgia. If you want to give your guests a nudge, why not include a dress code on your invite? “Think pink, bring the bling, and don’t forget your best Barbie attitude!”

Outfit Inspiration: From TikTok Trends to Celebrity Barbz

Barbie’s style is having a major moment, with everyone from Nicki Minaj (queen of the Barbz) to the Kardashians, Beyoncé, and Hailey Bieber showing off their Barbiecore looks. If you need a little inspo, check out this slideshow of celebrities slaying the Barbiecore trend, from Cowgirl Barbie to 90s Barbie, there’s a look for every personality.

On TikTok, the #Barbiecore hashtag is bursting with outfit ideas, from pastel power suits to glittery mini dresses and even DIY upcycled Barbie looks. If you’re feeling crafty, why not host a pre-party “Barbie outfit upcycle night” with your friends? Raid the charity shops for pink treasures, add a few rhinestones, and you’re ready for your close up.

Dress as Your Favourite Barbie (or Ken!)

One of the best things about Barbie is her endless wardrobe, and her 200+ careers! Instead of a generic pink dress code, you could ask guests to come as their favourite Barbie character or career. Here are just a few ideas to get you started:

  • Malibu Barbie (sunglasses, beach waves, and a sun kissed glow)
  • Cowgirl Barbie (think pink boots and a sparkly hat, bonus points for a lasso)
  • Career Barbie (doctor, astronaut, vet, teacher, or even Prime Minister Barbie!)
  • Disco Barbie (sequins, metallics, and platform shoes)
  • Vintage Barbie (classic 1959 black-and-white swimsuit, or 80s neon)
  • Popstar Barbie (microphone, glitter, and big hair)
  • Fairytale Bride Barbie (perfect for a hen party, white dress, veil, and a sash)
  • Ken (because every Barbie needs her Ken, or maybe you’re hosting a Ken only afterparty!)

Couples and Group Costumes

Why not encourage couples or friends to team up? Barbie and Ken is a classic, but you could also have a whole squad of Barbies, each with a different look. Or, if you’re feeling cheeky, throw in a Zombie Barbie or a “Barbie’s Evil Twin” for a bit of mischief.

If you’re planning a hen party, take a cue from The Livstyle’s Malibu Barbie bachelorette party. The bride to be rocked a white swimsuit and a Barbie pink maxi kimono, while her hens went all out with fuchsia pink swimsuits, tropical print sarongs, and matching pink everything, from heart shaped sunglasses and pastel pink towels to Barbie pink cups, straws, and even champagne bottle earrings. It’s the perfect excuse to go full “Wifey Barbie” for the weekend.


Step 2: Decorate Barbie Style!

This is where the real fun begins, transforming your space into a Barbie dreamworld that’ll have your guests gasping from the moment they arrive. Whether you’re hosting in your living room, garden, or a hired venue, it’s all about layering pinks, playful details, and a sprinkle of nostalgia to create that unmistakable Barbie magic.

First impressions count! Welcome your guests with a VIP pink carpet (a pink runner or even a roll of pink fabric works wonders) and an entrance that screams “Barbie lives here.” If you want to go all out, hire a retro pink scooter or, for the ultimate wow factor, a hot pink supercar for a wedding or milestone birthday.

For a whimsical touch, set up a pastel coloured bicycle with a basket overflowing with flowers, or a balloon arch with fresh foliage woven through. Add a welcome sign: chalkboard, acrylic, or even a giant Barbie box cut out, scribbled with something fun like:

  • “Come On Barbie, Let’s Go Party!”
  • “Welcome to Barbie’s Dream House”
  • “Life Is A Party, Dress Like It”
  • “On Wednesdays, We Wear Pink!”

Want even more Barbie quotes and Insta-worthy captions?
Download my full brainstormed list as a handy PDF and sprinkle a little extra Barbie magic across your party signs, photo booth props, and social posts! [Download the full list here.]

Once inside, let your tablescape do the talking. The key? Layer different shades of pink, think blush runners, fuchsia napkins, pastel plates, and rose-tinted glasses. Mix in gold or iridescent touches for a grown up twist, or keep it playful with confetti, mini disco balls, and Barbie accessories.

Skip the mass produced partyware if you can. Instead, get creative with DIY centrepieces. One show stopping idea is a Barbie convertible flower vase: simply take a toy Barbie car (vintage or new, charity shops are a goldmine for these!) and fill it with either fresh or artificial flowers. For a really polished look, use a masonry jar or foam ball inside the car to anchor your blooms and create a full, lush arrangement. 

For inspiration, check out Alicia’s Flowerwall Events on TikTok, who creates the most fabulous Barbie car centrepieces using artificial flowers and clever arranging tricks. Her videos break down the process step by step, so even DIY beginners can get involved. It’s a brilliant way to add a bit of Barbie magic to your tablescape, and you can match the flowers to your party’s colour palette for extra wow factor.

If the car isn’t your thing, try a handbag, use a stiletto shoe as a vase, or stack pink books and top with a tiara for a playful twist.

For more inspiration, take a look at Jowy Productions’ Malibu Barbie luncheon. They created an elegant setting using various shades of Barbie’s favourite colour – pink! The tablescape was accessorised with pretty florals and added height with taper candles, creating a sophisticated yet playful vibe. One cheeky detail I loved: the “Carbies Don’t Make Barbies” sandwich platter label, which is guaranteed to get a giggle.

© Jowy Productions

Another stunning example comes from Parisa Kaprealian’s garden tea party. She mixed baby pink, hot pink, and magenta to create an adorable outdoor setup, layering textures and patterns for a truly dreamy effect. Pastel bowls, floral arrangements, and delicate accessories made the whole scene feel like a real life Barbie picnic, perfect for a summer birthday or a whimsical hen do.

If you’re channelling Malibu Barbie, it’s all about those endless summer vibes, think sun kissed skin, salty air, and a riot of pinks and tropical prints. Whether you’re hosting in your garden, at a pool, or even indoors, you can recreate that California dream with a few clever touches.

For inspiration, check out Parties on Purpose, who created one of my favourite Malibu Barbie setups. Their vibrant colours, flamingos, and beachy props brought a whole load of California fun to the party, perfect for kids and grown ups alike.

If you’re planning a hen party or bachelorette, this theme is spot on. The Bikiniis and Belliniis bridal party hosted their celebration right on the beach, with a dreamy picnic setup by Picnics by the Sun SWFL. Picture a low level table under a white lace teepee, shaded by a parasol, and surrounded by pink and white rugs and pillows.

The tablescape was pure Barbiecore: pink and white table runner, table mats, white cake stands and plates, gold cutlery, gold and pink fans, pink candles in white holders, and lush pink florals. The hens wore matching pink and blue sarongs and matching sunglasses. There was even a charcuterie board of meats and cheeses. It’s the kind of setup that’s made for Instagram, and for making your guests feel like Barbie herself.

Scatter inflatable beach balls, flamingos, palm leaves, and sun visors around your space. Set up a tiered trolley with pink drinks, fruit platters, and glossy magazines for that poolside chic. Pink and white striped towels, flip-flops, and sun umbrellas add instant Malibu flair.

And for the ultimate party inspiration, don’t forget Barbie’s iconic Malibu Dreamhouse – yes, the one you can actually rent on Airbnb! Imagine an infinity pool, walk in closet, hobby room, and meditation terrace. You can recreate the look with pink parasols, inflatable pool rings, and a DIY “Barbie’s Hobby Corner” for crafts or games. Even if you’re not in Malibu, you can bring a slice of Barbieland to Wales, London, or wherever you’re celebrating.

Whatever your décor style, framed Barbie quotes and captions are a must. Print your favourites and pop them in pink or gold frames for the dessert table, activity stations, or photo booth. They’re a simple, affordable way to add personality and get everyone in the Barbie mood.

Here are a few to get you started:

  • “Wake Up and See the Sparkle”
  • “You Can Be Anything”
  • “Think Pink”
  • “Barbie Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”
  • “Life in Plastic, It’s Fantastic”
  • “If It Comes In Pink, I Want It”
  • “A Plastic Tan Never Fades”

Psst… If you’ve already downloaded the Barbie captions and quotes PDF from the entrance décor section, it’s the same handy list!
If not, grab it here and sprinkle Barbie magic across your party signs, photo booth props, and Insta posts: [Download the full list here.]

For something extra, create a DIY art wall using Barbie silhouettes, handbags, or even a 3D collage of upcycled Barbie dolls. If you prefer a modern, graphic look, take inspiration from Hostess With The Mostess, who designed a colourful and contemporary palette using bold pops of colour and iconic silhouette images of handbags, stiletto heels, and high ponytails.

Or, for a real showstopper, check out Colin Cowie’s 50th anniversary Barbie wall. He created a dramatic backdrop for Mattel using 750 Barbie dolls, each styled as the original 1959 Barbie in her black and white swimsuit, framed with a border of pink, softly lit jewels. Charity shops are a goldmine for old dolls and accessories, just add a glue gun and some glitter to make your own version!


Step 3: Pick the Best Barbie Backdrop

Every Barbie party needs a show stopping focal point, a backdrop that makes your guests gasp, grabs attention in every photo, and sets the scene for all the fun to come. Whether you’re working with a hired venue, your living room, or the great outdoors, there’s a Barbie backdrop for every space and budget.

Barbie’s iconic pink doll box is instantly recognisable and makes the perfect photo booth backdrop. Imagine your guests stepping into a giant toy box, ready to strike a pose and channel their inner doll.

You can DIY your own life size Barbie box using cardboard, foam board, or even a large wardrobe box painted in pastel shades. Add patterned prints, sequins for a disco vibe, or a neon sign for a modern twist. For themed parties, customise the box to match – beach party, disco, or red carpet Barbie!

Want to make your own? Watch this YouTube tutorial for a step by step guide to creating a life size Barbie box photo booth, big enough for adults and guaranteed to wow your guests.

A photo booth isn’t just a party extra, it’s a must have for capturing memories and keeping guests entertained. Encourage everyone to get creative with their poses, and don’t forget to provide plenty of props: feather boas, heart shaped sunglasses, tiaras, and Barbie accessories galore.

© Lux Letters

Barbie is all about getting dolled up, she never leaves home without a touch of sparkle and her favourite beauty essentials. So why not turn your dessert table into a Barbie inspired vanity? Imagine pastel floral vibes, pink treats arranged like makeup palettes, stylish jars, tiered stands, and cute slogan signs.

For inspiration, check out M&J Kreation’s pretty in pink display, which features everything from strawberry marshmallows (“cotton balls”) to powdered doughnuts (“powder puffs”), pink wafers (“nail files”) and gum balls (“bath pearls”).

Get playful with your labels, name your sweets after beauty products or Barbie accessories. Arrange pink treats on white cake stands, add gold accents, and use pink and white napkins for a polished look. If you want to go all out, add a mirror with hanging beads, perfume shaped biscuits, bows on cupcakes, nail polish cake pops, and pink shoes fixed on top of sweet popcorn jars. It’s a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds!

Why not set up a walk in wardrobe or dress up station, Barbie style? This is your chance to celebrate all the different Barbies over the years – not just the fashionista! Alongside classic accessories like handbags and tiaras, add props inspired by Barbie’s many hobbies and careers.

  • Yoga Barbie: Include yoga mats, foam blocks, and pastel water bottles for a wellness vibe.
  • 80s Roller Skating Barbie: Pop in some retro roller skates, neon leg warmers, and sweatbands.
  • Barbie’s pets: Did you know Barbie’s dog is called Taffy? Add a plush dog toy (or even a teddy bear for younger guests), plus a few toy cats or horses for extra fun.
  • Handbags & Sunglasses: Mix in oversized sunglasses, sparkly handbags, and even mini backpacks.
  • Career Barbie: Doctor’s coat, stethoscope, chef’s hat, or a toy laptop for “CEO Barbie.”
  • Sports Barbie: Tennis racket, football, or even a pink skipping rope.
  • Popstar Barbie: Microphone, glittery hairbrushes, and temporary tattoos.
  • Beach Barbie: Sun hats, flip-flops, and inflatable pool rings.

If you have enough space, create a pink catwalk runway for your party, let guests strut their stuff in their favourite Barbie look, whether it’s yoga chic, disco queen, or animal lover.

For inspiration, check out LundynBridge Events, who set up a gorgeous Barbie fashion party with a mini runway. Kids played dress-up, enjoyed child friendly makeovers, and tried on hair and jewellery accessories before showing off their looks on the catwalk. It’s a brilliant way to get everyone involved and capture some unforgettable photos.

The essence of Barbiecore is having fun and not taking yourself too seriously, so let your guests play, swap accessories, and try out new looks. And don’t forget to snap plenty of photos!

If you want to go even further, create a backstage area with light up mirrors and pink feather boas, or set up a wig display for guests to switch up their hair looks. For a truly immersive experience, add a pink carpet leading to your backdrop, and scatter confetti or rose petals for a touch of glamour.


Step 4: Select Barbie Games and Activities 

No Barbie party is complete without a line up of games and activities to keep everyone entertained, laughing, and making memories. Whether you’re hosting little ones, teens, or a group of grown up Barbz, there’s a Barbie inspired activity for every age and vibe.

Spark creativity with hands on stations where guests can make their own Barbie accessories or treats. Here are a few ideas:

  • Hairband Making Station: Let guests design their own Barbie worthy headbands with ribbons, bows, flowers, jewels, and elastic bands. Kits are easy to find online, or you can DIY your own supply baskets.
  • Fashion Designer Station: Set up a table with fabric scraps, stickers, and mini mannequins or dolls. Guests can create outfits for their Barbies, then show them off in a mini fashion show.
  • Lip Gloss Making Station: Mix up some fun with a DIY lip gloss bar. Use simple recipes (like Kool-Aid or edible glitter) and let everyone blend their own shades and scents. For a step-by-step guide, check out this recipe and instructions by Craft Box Girls.
  • Biscuit Decorating Station: Bake Barbie shaped biscuits (think dresses, handbags, shoes) and let guests decorate with pink icing and sprinkles. This is always a hit with kids and adults alike!
  • Perfume Making Station:  For older guests, set up a perfume blending bar with essential oils and pretty bottles. Everyone can create their own signature “Barbie” scent to take home, and don’t forget to let guests name their fragrance for an extra personal touch!

Kids Barbie Party Games

Classic party games get a Barbie twist! Try these:

  • Barbie Character Visit: Hire a children’s entertainer to appear as Barbie for singing, dancing, and photos.
  • Pin the Bow on the Barbie: Like “Pin the Tail on the Donkey,” but with a Barbie head and paper or fabric bows.
  • Musical Tiaras: Play Barbie tunes while guests circle a table of tiaras, when the music stops, everyone grabs a tiara. One less tiara each round until there’s a winner!
  • Barbie Scavenger Hunt: Hide Barbie accessories around your space. Give each child a doll and a checklist of items to find.
  • How Many Barbie Shoes in the Jar?: Fill a jar with Barbie shoes or accessories and have guests guess the number. Closest guess wins a prize!

Barbie Spa Party

Pampering is a must in Barbieland! If you want to treat your guests to the ultimate Barbie spa experience, transform your space into a pink beauty bar where everyone can get dolled up and unwind. Think face masks, mini manis and pedis, nail art, and plenty of pink smoothies to sip while you relax.

One gorgeous example comes from A Styled Fete’s Barbie spa party. Each child wore a cosy pink robe as they entered the beauty bar, which was stocked with nail polish, Barbie shimmer spray, loofahs, containers for a lip gloss making activity, and pink bath salts. While enjoying their treatments, the girls read Barbie magazines, listened to Barbie music, and sipped on strawberry banana smoothies. After their pedicures were polished and gleaming, they all got to wear matching pink flip-flops with bows and sparkles!

A small mirror and glass bowls filled with warm water were provided to remove face masks, and rolled towels tied with pink ribbon were ready for when they finished playing. Each child received a mini bathtub container as their party favour, filled with Barbie tissues, a face mask, a sugar scrub, lotion, a nail clipper, and a file.

The dessert table looked just like Barbie’s dressing table, with a mirror draped in hanging beads among the treats. There were perfume shaped biscuits, bows on cupcakes, nail polish cake pops, and pink shoes perched on top of sweet popcorn jars, everything a Barbie girl could need, and all edible!

Transform your space into a Barbie Dreamhouse for the ultimate sleepover. Whether you hire a sleepover stylist or go the DIY route, think themed teepees or tents with luxury mattresses, soft quilts, decorative cushions, string lights, and pastel bunting. The goal is to create a cosy, pink filled haven where everyone feels like they’ve stepped into Barbieland.

Add breakfast trays at the foot of each bed, topped with little extras like night lights, eye masks, and party favours. For a fun and nostalgic touch, place a classic Barbie hairdresser doll head (the kind with just the shoulders and head for styling) on each tray. These double up as both Barbie themed décor and a hands on activity, guests can spend ages plaiting, brushing, and accessorising their doll’s hair.

Encourage guests to play inside their tents with Barbie colouring printables (the Barbie Play website has a great collection of free downloads). For the perfect wind down, set up a movie night with a marathon of Barbie films, there are over 40 to choose from! Here is a full list of all of the Barbie movies. Be sure to download or queue up your favourites ahead of time and serve up bowls of pink popcorn for that extra sprinkle of Barbie magic.

Hen / Bachelorette Barbie Party Games

For grown up Barbz, add a cheeky twist to your games:

  • Barbie & Ken Mug Shots: Recreate the iconic mug shots from the Barbie movie for your hen party before and after photos. Set up a backdrop with height markers or numbers, and have your hens pose holding placards, just like Barbie and Ken in the film. For inspiration, check out these Barbie movie mug shot photos.
  • Barbie “Photo” Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of photo challenges (e.g., a selfie with a “Ken,” a group shot with cocktails, something pink that doesn’t belong to your group).
  • Would She Rather?: Guests guess the bride’s preferences; whoever gets the most right wins a prize.
  • Porn Film or Nail Polish?: A hilarious guessing game, can your hens tell the difference between cheeky film titles and actual nail polish names? The Little Dove blog has a free printable.
  • Ken in the Buff: Hire a (tasteful!) butler to serve drinks and host games, bonus points if he dresses as Ken.
  • Kiss the Miss Goodbye: Create a keepsake print for the bride, with lipstick kisses and Barbie themed messages from each guest.

Step 5: Create a Barbie Playlist

No Barbie party is complete without a soundtrack that gets everyone singing, dancing, and feeling fabulous. Whether you’re hosting a kids’ birthday, a hen do, or a grown up girls’ night, the right playlist will set the mood and keep the energy high from start to finish.

Start with the classics: Aqua’s “Barbie Girl” is a must, but don’t stop there! Mix in upbeat pop anthems, girl power hits, and a few nostalgic throwbacks. Think Dua Lipa, Taylor Swift, Spice Girls, ABBA, and a sprinkle of 80s and 90s magic. For a truly on trend vibe, add tracks from the Barbie Movie Soundtrack 2023, which includes hits like “Dance the Night” by Dua Lipa and “Barbie World” by Nicki Minaj.

If you want to get creative, set up a retro boombox or a karaoke station and let your guests take turns performing their favourite Barbie inspired tunes. You could even encourage everyone to dress up as “Popstar Barbie” or “Rockstar Barbie” for the night, microphones, glittery hairbrushes, and inflatable guitars are all fair game! After all, Barbie was the lead of her band “Barbie and the Rockers” and totally rocked the ’80s scene with big hair, shoulder pads, and plenty of attitude.

For a fun photo op, position a pink coloured guitar as a prop, with a cheeky “back in 5 minutes” sign written in Barbie font and a pink lipstick kiss. It’s the perfect backdrop for your inner superstar.

Need some inspiration? Here’s a starter list of songs to get your Barbie playlist going (and you can always add your own favourites!):

  • Barbie Girl – Aqua
  • Dance the Night – Dua Lipa
  • Barbie World – Nicki Minaj, Ice Spice & Aqua
  • Girls Just Want To Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
  • Wannabe – Spice Girls
  • Material Girl – Madonna
  • Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen
  • Girlfriend – Avril Lavigne
  • Party In The U.S.A. – Miley Cyrus
  • Super Bass – Nicki Minaj
  • Just Dance – Lady Gaga
  • Hollaback Girl – Gwen Stefani
  • Run The World (Girls) – Beyoncé
  • Dancing Queen – ABBA
  • Not Your Barbie Girl – Ava Max

Want the ultimate Barbie party playlist?
Click here for a ready made Spotify playlist featuring all the best Barbiecore bangers!


Step 6: Plan a Pink Drinks Menu

No Barbie party is complete without a drinks menu that’s as pretty as it is delicious. Whether you’re catering for little ones, teens, or a crowd of grown ups, the key is to keep everything pink, playful, and a little bit extra.

Let your guests live out their sweetest dreams with a pink lemonade bar. It’s refreshing, easy to set up, and fits the Barbie theme perfectly. All you need is lemonade and a splash of food colouring, cranberry juice, grenadine, or a handful of berries to create that perfect blush shade. Serve in clear jugs or glass dispensers with slices of lemon, strawberries, or edible flowers for a touch of glamour. Pop in some stripy pink straws and let everyone help themselves.

For kids (and big kids), a milkshake bar is always a hit. Offer classic flavours like vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry, and let guests choose their own toppings, think whipped cream, sprinkles, mini marshmallows, and pink wafer biscuits. If you want to go all out, try making unicorn bark milkshakes (colourful, over the top, and just a little bit “too much”).

For something more retro (instead of mythical), check out the Barbie YouTube channel for a fun, easy shake recipe and tutorial.

If your Barbie party is an adult celebration, it’s time to get creative with pink cocktails! Set up a “Cocktail Bar-bie” with a fabric sun umbrella, pink floral arrangements, and a menu of punny drinks. Decorate with edible flowers, Barbie themed drink stirrers, and slices of fruit. For inspiration, take a look at Janett Love Shop’s cocktail bar, her drinks sound as good as they taste!

Want to shake things up? Check out this collection of Barbie cocktail recipes for step-by-step instructions and plenty of pink drink inspiration. You’ll find everything from Malibu Barbie Pink Cocktails to Barbie Cotton Candy Martinis and more.

Here are a few Barbie cocktail names to get you started. Let’s see if they tickle your tastebuds:

  • Stiletto Spritz
  • Sunset in Malibu
  • Think Pink Margarita
  • Dream House Daiquiri
  • Barbie Breeze
  • Blonde Ambition
  • Pink Starburst
  • Bad Ass Barbie
  • Pretty in Pink
  • Life in Plastic

Step 7: Make Pink Party Food

When it comes to Barbie parties, the food should be just as fabulous as the décor! The secret? Keep it pink, playful, and a little bit whimsical, think treats that look almost too pretty to eat.

You can serve pink doughnuts with Barbie toppers, an array of cupcakes and biscuits, and sandwiches cut into Barbie themed shapes (think handbags, shoes, or even Barbie’s silhouette). Try colouring pasta pink with beetroot or food colouring for a fun twist, or make fruit kebabs with strawberries, grapes, and watermelon for a healthy option.

Other pink party food ideas:

  • Strawberry yoghurt or mousse
  • Pink glazed doughnuts
  • Pink macaroons
  • Individual fruit salad pots
  • Watermelon and feta cheese bites
  • Pink and white marshmallows
  • Pink rice krispie squares
  • Pink fairy bread
  • Pink popcorn
  • Pink candy floss
  • Pink wafer biscuits
  • Pink chocolate dipped pretzels
  • Barbie decorated cupcakes, cake pops, and biscuits
  • Raspberry twists, jelly pots, or Eton mess
  • Beetroot hummus with nachos
  • Classic prawn cocktail

Presentation is everything! Arrange your treats on white cake stands, pastel plates, and tiered trays. Add gold accents, pink napkins, and a sprinkle of edible glitter for that extra Barbie sparkle. For inspiration, check out Favola Wedding & Events’ pink dessert setup, which features a pink frame filled with pastel balloons, a large bow, and the cutest cake pops and cupcakes.

If you want to make your own perfectly pink desserts, take a look at this collection of Barbie inspired recipes on Spokin.

And for cake inspiration, don’t miss the slideshow of over 30 Barbie cakes online, there’s everything from classic doll cakes to dreamhouse creations.

My personal favourite? The Barbie dreamhouse cake by The Rakow Bake Company, which is a total showstopper and perfect for a centrepiece. I love this particular cake because most Barbie cakes focus on the doll itself, and if they’re quirky, they usually highlight beauty products or accessories, but this one goes all out on the house! Love it. 

For more inspiration, check out Event Decor and More UK’s pink party video for a peek at their stunning dessert table.


Step 8: Decide on Barbie Party Favours

Party favours are the cherry on top of any Barbie celebration, a little thank you for your guests and a final sprinkle of pink magic as they head home. Whether you go for DIY treats or ready made goodies, the key is to keep them thoughtful, fun, and on theme.

You don’t have to fill your favour boxes to the brim, sometimes, an empty box is perfect for guests to stash their arts and crafts or treats from the dessert table.

Leather handbag shaped gift boxes with retro style ribbon bows are a stylish choice, and you can pick from different colours and patterns to match your party palette.

For a simple but elegant touch, place a long stem pink rose on each place setting. It’s budget friendly, looks gorgeous, and works especially well for a sophisticated hen party or grown up Barbie bash.

If you want to go all out, pre-filled pink themed gift boxes are always a hit. You’ll find plenty of options on Etsy, from boxes filled with chocolates, candles, and mugs to wellbeing treats like cosy socks, face masks, and sweet snacks. Personalised touches, like custom images, scented candles, or champagne flutes, make these gifts extra special.

One that really stood out to me is the best friend gift box from Boxed and Bow Shop. You can personalise everything: the image of the girls printed on the box, the scented candle, and even the champagne flute. The pink tissue paper and silk scrunchie tie it all together and complement the Barbie theme perfectly.

Keep the floral vibes going with an envelope display, like the one created by Eden Events. Fill it with Lindor chocolates, a mini bottle of Prosecco, and blush pink flowers for a gift that feels both luxurious and thoughtful.

For a budget friendly option, put together mini manicure sets: pink nail polish, a nail file, and a lipstick shaped pen, all wrapped in cellophane with a pink ribbon. Perfect for little ones or as a cheeky treat for the grown ups.

Handmade candles are always a winner. Try heart-shaped, rose-scented candles (you can find a DIY tutorial here) to keep costs down and add a personal touch.

For something truly unique, print out Barbie cartoon versions of your guests using a service like PhotoCartoon.net. It’s a fun, memorable keepsake, and you can even remove the watermark for a small fee.

I’ve tried this myself using my blog photo and applied a Barbie cartoon effect to show just how plastic you can look!

If you have a bigger budget, hire an artist to attend your party and sketch your guests in fabulous Barbie inspired outfits. It’s a show stopping favour that your friends will treasure long after the party ends.


I hope this guide has given you all the inspiration, practical tips, and pink sparkle you need to throw a Barbie party that’s truly unforgettable. Whether you’re planning a birthday, hen do, or just a girls’ night in, remember: it’s all about having fun, getting creative, and making your guests feel like they’ve stepped into Barbieland.

If you loved these ideas, I’d absolutely love to hear from you! Please leave a comment below with your favourite tip, or share your own Barbie party photos and hacks. Don’t forget to subscribe for more party inspiration, printables, and behind the scenes peeks at my latest celebrations.

And if you’re planning a hen party or just want even more Barbiecore inspo, make sure to check out my hen party blog post (link to your post). On the Friday night, my hens surprised me with a Barbie-inspired PJ party, think matching pink pyjamas, themed snacks, and plenty of giggles before the big day. You’ll find all the details, photos, and extra ideas to help you plan your own unforgettable girls’ night.

Diolch for reading, wishing you the most fabulous, glitter filled party ever!