Turn the volume down on Barbiecore decor and opt for subtle hues

With the new Barbie movie crushing it at the box office, it’s hard to escape the dazzling shades of hot pink favored by the eponymous heroine. Not least because the movie started an interior design trend known as “Barbiecore” decor.

Sure, living in Barbie’s gum house sounds like the recipe for a migraine. But it is possible to stylishly brighten up your home with a more sensible pink accent.

Get the right tone

To be sure of taste, opt for sophisticated and muted pink shades, such as blush, dusty rose or pastel pink.

“These are more versatile and easier to combine with other colors,” says James Mellan-Matulewicz, creative director at wallpaper studio Bobbi Beck.

“To create a balanced and elegant look, pair pink with neutrals like white, cream, beige, or light gray.”

Pink, he says, also pairs beautifully with metallic accents like gold, copper or brass, adding a touch of glamor and sophistication.

Think small

If you’re nervous about choosing pink, start with simple tweaks or small statement changes, such as using pink as an accent color, say on a wall.

When it comes to accessories, choose items that are easy to replace and use them to balance the overall neutral scheme of walls, floors, ceilings and joinery, suggests Karolina Adamczyk, chief visionary officer of interior design studio Ademchic.

Cooking with color

An all-pink kitchen might put you off dinner. But a subtle pop of color can bring warmth and depth — perhaps with pink tile splashbacks, pink-themed appliances, pink wallpaper, or even floors. The trick is not to do all of the above.

Try mixing a different color base and top cabinet or create colored ‘zones’ in the kitchen, says Dawn Filkins, head of creative at Smile Kitchens.

For example, a pink island surrounded by neutral-tinted cabinets.

Another elegant way to bring pink into your kitchen is to go vintage.

“You can bring back the charm and nostalgia of the 1950s with, for example, a Smeg fridge in candied pink,” says Anne Haimes, design director and founder of Anne Haimes Interiors.

Before bed, press mute

If you want to make your bedroom an oasis of calm and relaxation, muted, faded pink together with natural materials such as wood, rattan and cream bouclé can create a calm stylish effect.

“Baby pink bedding, accent pillows, sheets, and throws can soften bedrooms and can be paired with richer shades of red, ocher, burnt orange, and warm browns for a more luxurious feel,” says Alysha Alli, interior designer for home builder Redrow.

Pink or swimming

Balance is key when using pink in the bathroom, says Ruth Foster, interior designer at Victoria Plum.

“Start by choosing a shade that resonates with your personal taste, such as dusty blush.

“Pair the hue with complementary colors and materials like subtle neutrals or brushed brass hardware for a sophisticated touch.”