Pink = Barbie. Right?

If you've been blinded by the sudden invasion of pink lately, no need for an eye-checkup! It's just Mattel painting the town Barbie Pink in anticipation of the recently released Barbie movie. You might be wondering, "Can they 'own' a color, though?" Well, it's a bit of a mixed bag.

Unlike UPS, who trademarked its "Pullman" brown or Tiffany’s iconic “Robin’s Egg Blue”, Mattel doesn't have the pink corner boxed off just yet. Despite trying to trademark "Barbie Pink" a few times, they're yet to cross the finish line. But don't let that fool you! Mattel has been partying in Barbie's favorite pink shade for decades, and they're fiercely protective of it. Just ask Rap Snacks and MCA Records, who both received a rather stern "hello" from Mattel's legal team.

The courts have given Mattel a bit of a cold shower in the past, saying they can't monopolize the color pink. But, things might be turning rosy now! Some legal eagles think Mattel could register their specific Barbie Pink for some uses, thanks to its consistency in its use over the years.

No one knows how much this particular shade of pink is worth in Mattel's treasure chest. But if we're judging by the Barbie-pink billboards popping up everywhere, it's safe to say - it isn’t just pocket change! So, the next time you see that dazzling Barbie Pink, remember - it’s more than just a color; it’s a branding powerhouse!