Life lessons from Barbie to implement on your night out
By Laura Molloy
As the summer dwindles to a close, the residue of its biggest blockbuster (and highest-grossing film ever from a female director) remains. Though the UK delivered one of the rainiest summers in recent memories, our nation was undeniably brightened by the swathes of pink fabric flowing in and out of cinemas across the country or the sound of Charli XCX’s getaway anthem leaking from commuter’s headphones on the tube. It was a pop culture moment that instilled a little extra joy into our lives. So, why not keep it going? After all, your night out should always be a movie.
Partake in an organised dance routine.
Gone are the days of taking yourself too seriously on the dancefloor. Who needs an awkward two-step here and there when the joy of a fully organised dance routine awaits? You may have attempted some choreography to Doja Cat’s ‘Say So’ over lockdown, so now's the time to dust off the steps and take centre stage with your besties, as Barbie does (shortly before her existential crisis..).
Barbie was, in part, about revisiting and revelling in the things that brought us joy as children - and who among us didn’t memorise a music video dance routine or two? For some modern inspo, consider the free-flowing, viral moves in Jungle’s ‘Back on 74’.
Compliment a stranger
For those of us versed in the etiquette of the girls' bathroom, this one is nothing new. But, the glowing compliments traded between strangers are not only the most sacred ritual of a British night out but so Barbie.
Wear pink…
This is perhaps the most obvious takeaway from Barbie, however, there is actual science to show the positive impact a simple wardrobe change can have on your night out. Pink has been found to reduce aggression, meaning the good vibes will radiate from you all night.
For those willing to take it an extra step (or perhaps just those who can be bothered) a dramatic costume change halfway through the evening is also an option… even if it’s just out of heels and into Birkenstocks.
… and make sure your drink matches!
Barbie, with her imaginary milk cartons, might not be familiar with the joy of sipping a fluorescent pink beverage while indulging in some scandalous gossip from a friend, but it doesn’t mean you can’t! After all, if Barbie lived in the real world, she’d definitely be at the bar ordering a round of Frosé’s at Happy Hour. Those with a sweet tooth can opt for a Berry Blitz (ice cream in a cocktail just seems so Barbie), or go for a Woo Woo or a Neon Pink G&T if you’re feeling more classic. It turns out there’s a cocktail for every shade of pink in your wardrobe!
Collaborate on a pre-drinks playlist
With its critically acclaimed soundtrack, Barbie solidified the true importance of finding the right song to fit the mood. And if your goal is to live your life like a movie, the score should be meticulously curated. Start building your shared playlist on Spotify midweek as a procrastination tool, but ensure that everyone is on the same page regarding vibe and mood. This should be filled with a selection of feel-good, unapologetically positive pop anthems. Our recommendation? Kylie Minogue’s new single, of course.
Consider alternative travel options
Barbie doesn’t entertain the mundane, even for a task as simple as going from A to B. Follow her lead by instilling each moment of your evening with as much joy as possible - that includes your commute. Perhaps now is the time to dust off your Heelies, or splurge on a party bus or tuk-tuk if you’re in central London. Embrace the cringe! After all, it’s always about the journey.
So, rather than embarking on a night out identical to those of weekends past, perhaps you’ll consider implementing a dose of pink this time instead, and seeing where it leads you. And, with Barbie due to arrive on streaming platforms shortly, it can even be your hangover watch the next day - playing in the background as you debrief on a night of iconic looks, iconic moves and, most importantly, iconic memories.
