People are craving comfort. Amid what can feel like a state of constant crisis – a layering of traumatic societal events – it can sometimes seem like we’ve lost a sense of scale and cohesion. In the face of this, the desire to retreat into nostalgia is more seductive than ever.

From decentralised autonomous organisations (DAOs) run on Discord to city-wide mutual aid groups, people are finding safety and optimism in numbers. For growing numbers of people, collective action is emerging as the only viable solution to compounding crises and deepening alienation.

In a polarised society, the meaning of gender is in flux. People want to be liberated from outdated norms – but many hold on to the gender binary as a source of stability in an uncertain world. How can brands navigate the changing gender landscape without leaning on stereotypes?

By leaning deeply into hyper-femininity and playfulness, the 2023Barbiemovie eschews traditional gender roles assigned to women. In combination with the rise of 'bimbocore' and the rejection of girlboss culture, this form of feminism elevates the female gaze in media and entertainment.

As homes become hubs of safety and escapism from the outside world, playful Barbie-esque aesthetics – from velvet pink valances to unicorn ornaments – are making their way into interiors. The move speaks to a desire to cultivate comforting 'worlds' as an antidote to modern angst.

Fresh off its Netflix reboot,Sailor Moon's timeless and nostalgic appeal is resonating with Gen Z audiences. As traditionally feminine tropes, aesthetics, and storylines are reworked into modern media and entertainment, how are brands shifting their outlooks to stay relevant?

Barbiecore couldn’t be further from the doll once considered a symbol of sexism. Transparently fake, fun, and loud, this subculture is detached from the male gaze and popular among cisgender women and the LGBTQ+ community. But what’s caused it to break into the public consciousness? And why now?