Barbie and I go waaaaay back.

I was born in 1957, and she arrived two years later.

I think we first met when I was about 4.

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Dont even get me started on the kitten heels!

It was love at first sight.

To this day, I associate Barbie with such a happy, innocent time in my life.

barbie inspired fashion

Our family owned a cute, baby-blue VW bug.

My bedroom had pink daisy-printed wallpaper and a mirrored dressing table.

The Beach Boys ruled the waves, both on and off the radio.

ryan gosling and margot robbie star as ken and barbie in the film barbie

All seemed right with the world.

In retrospect, it was a brilliant if gender-stereotyping marketing move.

The vibrant hue still signifies femininity, power and, well, hotness!

Old Navy V-Neck Ruffle-Trim Cutout One-Piece Swimsuit for Women in Raspberry Tart; AQS Leia 49mm Cat Eye Sunglasses in Pink/Black; Cabana Life Coral Geo Off the Shoulder Dress

One or two pieces per outfit, tops!

Shades of pink pair beautifully with navy, white, olive green and khaki.

Combining pink with other pastel shades can be a bit tricky for a mature woman.

And steer clear of pink rosebud prints, gingham and eyelet.

But add a pair of bubblegum-colored sandals or a fuchsia shawl to an all-white outfit and watch it pop!