After Sabrina Carpenter’s song, “Espresso,” hit the radio waves in the spring of 2024, I couldn’t walk three feet without running into her face, or her aesthetic. The genius of her sixth studio album, Short ‘n Sweet, was not, in my opinion, the songs (though they were undeniably popular) but the packaging. Carpenter tapped into some good old-fashioned nostalgia and invited everyone to dive into the glamour of the ‘50s and ‘60s. So, it’s no surprise to me that per Pinterest, the “‘60s babydoll aesthetic” has risen in popularity a whopping 7,000 percent since last year.
So Apparently, We All Want to Be a '60s Babydoll
Brigitte Bardot x Sabrina Carpenter, incoming
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Published Oct 20, 2025
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Taking a Page from the Icons
If Carpenter’s aesthetic feels familiar, that’s because she’s got the blonde bombshell™ down pat. History has many a beloved icon in this vein, most famously Marilyn Monroe—though Jean Harlow and Mae West came long before, and let’s not forget Brigitte Bardot. The Grammy winner consistently references old Hollywood in her red carpet appearances and performances, from the big hair to the vintage-inspired fashion. In fact, at the 2025 Grammys, her performance and outfits were notably inspired by Edith Head’s costumes for Shirley MacLaine in 1964’s What a Way to Go!
However, the pop star isn’t the only one making the case for classic glamor. Retro looks have graced many runways in recent seasons, from Fendi’s fur-filled FW25 show to Gucci with its babydoll dresses and mini skirts, along with Chanel.
While not everyone will have a black-tie occasion or fashion show in which to flaunt sumptuous costumes and couture, anyone can try the ‘60s babydoll look. Think miniskirts, empire waists, (faux) fur, lots of frills and lace and, of course, the eponymous babydoll silhouette. Below, shop five looks I think would get Carpenter’s seal (red lipstick kiss?) of approval.
1. Reformation Monica Silk Dress
Reformation
With a halter neck, plunging back and unique twist on the empire waist cut, Reformation’s Monica dress blends the baby doll look without making it feel too on-the-nose. The dress is 100 percent silk and comes in a sultry red or daring black, complete with delicate lace detailing for contrasting texture. For transitional and cold-weather styling, throw a faux fur coat on top and pair with some black or nude tights and your favorite heeled boots.
2. Dôen Alice Cashmere Dress
Dôen
I loved this on-trend, buttercup yellow cashmere dress from Dôen for a chilly-weather take on the babydoll aesthetic. The minidress screams ‘60s, and the cable knit makes me think of the big Nordic sweaters my grandparents used to wear—but more daring. Accessorize this slinky number with a contrasting belt, or wear alone.
3. Allegra K Pea Coat
Allegra K
Tell me this soft pink pea coat doesn’t scream ‘60s charm to you. I can totally see it paired with a matching mini skirt or dress if you want to lean into the decade (pillbox hat optional but encouraged), or styling it with jeans for a low-key, relaxed look that still has the girlish charm of the cropped A-line cut. The coat comes in tons of colors that reflect the vibrant, daring era, including powder blue and canary yellow.
4. Free People Juno Dress
Free People
This dress has it all. Lace! Poofy sleeves! A charming babydoll cut! A smart black bow! It also comes in red and a mauve-y brown. I love the light jacquard patterns on fabric that lend a heartier texture against the lace, as well as the flowing scalloped edges.
5. Satini Sissy Nightgown
Satini
Who said only outside clothes could have all the fun? This saucy satin nightie brings all the frills with the hems and straps bedecked in ruffles. It’s accented by a large satin bow on the chest, and a flowy, pleated fabric that swishes when you twirl. Bedtime just got a lot more fun.
