What to wear to Walt Disney World or Disneyland is a common question among first-timers. In this post we cover tips for stylish and practical outfits to wear during an active day on a Disney vacation. (I say “we,” but most of these tips are relayed to me from my wife, Sarah Bricker. I’m pretty clueless.)
This includes where Sarah buys her Disney and non-Disney outfits, how to handle the heat and humidity, and how to look great for family portraits. This last one is a big deal for many people who want to look nice for their vacation photos, which will be framed and hung in the house or put online for all of the world to see…so workout attire or sweats aren’t exactly ideal.
Along with our Unique Disney Packing List guide–which covers practical items that will help improve your vacation–this post covers the other half of what you should put in your suitcase for your trip: clothing. We receive a lot of questions about where Sarah buys her “cute clothing” that she wears to Walt Disney World and Disneyland, and just how functional some of those outfits are for the parks.
In this post, Sarah answers some of those questions as to general types of outfits work best. We also share some of the places where she buys her clothes, and how you can put together outfits for the Disney Parks that have a fun Disney motif.
Ready? Let’s take a look at some ways to dress for the parks that anyone can apply to their wardrobe. These ideas are practical, first and foremost, and for the everyday Disney vacationer!
What to Wear?
Sarah prefers to wear dresses, comfortable sandals, and hats to the Disney theme parks. This is because the parks are typically hot and involve a lot of activity in the sun. Dresses can make getting into and out of low-sitting attractions a little more difficult, but they are so much cooler, especially when you have long hair. These dresses are typically sundresses that are better suited to wearing to the parks, rather than thicker or fancier ones.
These work well with Sarah’s general philosophy of finding a good balance between clothing that will look nice and is “utilitarian” for the purpose of visiting the parks (that means no heels or other clothing likely to slow her down or make her uncomfortable!) The dresses Sarah purchases are typically inexpensive (relative to dresses), which is mainly due to her knowing where to shop.
Sarah also likes to infuse little “touches of Disney” in her park attire. Rather than wearing Disney t-shirts or other over-the-top tourist wear, she likes to keep it low-key in some outfits, and go for cute character driven-stuff in other cases.
When it comes to the normal, low-key outfits, the best strategy is to accessorize with Disney items. You can read more on this in her Tips for Accessorizing at the Disney Parks post.
She has a Mickey Mouse watch, necklaces, and baseball hats from the parks that she wears when she’s not wearing her large brim SPF sun hats. She likes to wear hats from one coast on the other coast for “street cred” (her words). For outfits that are strongly inspired by Disney, but don’t scream Disney, check out the incredibly awesome Disneybound Tumblr.
Sarah carries a variety of Disney LeSportsac bags, most of which subtly use Disney designs (such as Mary Blair art) rather than over the top stuff. The upside to these bags, unlike the popular Dooney & Bourke bags, is that they are durable and suited for the wear and tear of park activity, rather than a night out. They’re also significantly cheaper!
Comfortable footwear is also a must, and Sarah’s go-to choice for that is the OluKai Ohana sandal. She has a few different colors, and coordinates with her outfit. Mickey Crocs and tennis shoes are other options, but both look a bit clunky with dresses.
Where to Shop for Disney?
In the last few years, Disney has expanded its lines of trendy theme park merchandise, most of which can be found at the Marketplace Co-Op at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World. This is a concept store with niche products and retail concepts being tested.
Specifically, Twenty Eight & Main features “classic Disney elements of yesteryear in this exclusive collection for discerning gentlemen” and Cherry Tree Lane is a “must-stop, must-shop experience for sophisticated women who know how to accessorize.”
The highlight of Cherry Tree Lane is its dress shop, which features flattering designs inspired by the Walt Disney World attractions and characters.
Popular designs have featured Orange Bird, Spaceship Earth, Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room, the Haunted Mansion, and more.
Due to the ‘testing grounds’ nature of these concept stores, a lot of the products at the Marketplace Co-Op never see a wider release, which is unfortunate.
The upside is that a lot of items end up deeply discounted at the two outlet locations near Walt Disney World. We cover where these are (they’re not normal “Disney Store” outlets), how to score deals in our How to Save Money at the Walt Disney World Outlets post.
In addition to selling more trendy items at the theme parks, Disney has started doing more collaborations with third party clothing companies, with stylish results.
Some good options include Hot Topic’s Disney Department, UNIQLO’s Disney Collection, Urban Outfitters, and Neff. For a more comprehensive look at Disney’s collaborations with designers and fashion labels, check out this post on High Snobiety.
In addition to officially licensed stuff, there are approximately 35,282 small businesses on Etsy and elsewhere specializing in styles that evoke Disney without featuring the characters. Many of these are fan-run, and some feature incredible and creative designs. These clever designs (usually) stop short of copyright and trademark infringement–Racked did a fascinating piece about them a few years ago.
If you’re apprehensive about this merchandise being a bunch of poorly-designed “knock-offs” don’t be (although those do exist, too). The best independently operated fan shops are selling merchandise that’s arguably better, more unique, and innovative than what Disney is releasing. In fact, some of these small shops have done their own collaborations with Disney, and many more are deserving.
If you’re looking for non-Disney clothing, obviously your options aren’t going to be nearly as limited. Presumably you don’t need as much advice in this regard, either. One thing to note is that everyday outfits can be accessorized to evoke a Disney ‘look’ or to resemble a favorite character.
We love our Amazon Prime account, which makes Amazon Fashion: Casual Dress Shop a spot Sarah regularly checks for new styles and deals. There are a ton of different looks on here and some are cheaper than stores like Forever 21, with even lower prices! (Tip: some of the dresses here can be pricey, so sort by “Price: Low to High” for great styles at bargain prices.)
Another options is the discounted invite-only sites that sell trendy clothing in limited inventory sales that last a few days. The best of these is Gilt followed by Rue La La. The best deals here are most typically occur during their Sunday night sales any liquidation events. You need to make sure you check inventory right away when these sales start, as things sell out quickly.
In terms of regular, mainstream stores, Sarah also regularly frequents Express and Forever 21. Both stores have a lot of cheap (both in terms of how the clothes look and the prices) outfits, but the key is finding clothing that is low-priced but relatively high quality.
Other, more obvious choices are TJ Maxx and Marshall’s. Some people overlook these stores because they look down their noses at them, but these stores have some great, overstock styles at really low prices. Likewise, Sak’s Off 5th and Nordstrom’s Rack can be great when they get past-season items in from their mall-store counterparts, but you should be careful with both of these as they also receive a lot of lower quality items made specifically for the lower tier stores.
This is the same thing that happens with outlet malls, which has led us to almost entirely stop going to outlets. The “deals” offered at outlets are mostly illusions–nowadays almost everything at outlet stores is lower quality goods made specifically for the outlet store, and never sold at all at the “real” version of the store. Read more about the controversy here.
At the end of the day, you can find great outfits for Disney at a variety of different stores–not just the ones listed here. The key things to look for are lightweight, breathable fabrics that will be practical for a day in the parks. It gets hot, you’re moving around a lot, and need something that is fairly versatile, not just cute. It’s not too difficult to find stylish outfits that have both form and function!
Hopefully this helps you assemble a gorgeous and comfortable wardrobe for traveling to Disneyland or Walt Disney World at affordable prices! As for the rest of your packing for your trip to Walt Disney World or Disneyland, refer to our What to Pack for Disney Trips post. For additional planning resources, the best places to start are our comprehensive Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide and Disneyland Trip Planning Guide to make the most of your experience!
Your Thoughts
Have your own tips on places to shop while not breaking the bank? What to wear or what to wear? Favorite fan-run small shops selling ‘Disney Style’ items? Do you agree or disagree with our advice? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!
Hi
It’s my first trip to wdw and I have bought all of my clothes. I know I should of checked this website before I bought my clothes but does anyone know if boobtubes are acceptable? Iv bought all of these kinds of tops and shorts. I have watched a lot of YouTube videos and I have not seen anybody wearing tops like this and now I’m nervous that I will get turned away at the gates
Thanks
Sarah always looks so feminine, modest and sweet in her sun dresses. The question is what does Sarah use for a bra with her sleeveless dresses? I have yet to find the right one.
Friendly tip: all swim – Disney included! – is $12 at Hot Topic as of 7/23/18! No idea how long this sale is going on (I’m not affiliated with Hot Topic in any way), but I got a Little Mermaid one-piece yesterday for $13.13 including tax. Psyched to wear it at Stormalong Bay next week!!
I am in my 30s and would have honestly NEVER thought to check Hot Topic (I remember going in there in junior high to buy temp hair dye, and “too caffeinated to sell in grocery store” energy drinks LOL) but am so glad this post steered me there. Thanks, Tom and Sarah! Though I may have stuffed the shopping bag into my purse as I was exiting the store bc what self-respecting 30+yo woman carries a Hot Topic bag…
Planning a girls trip WDW for end of November after thanksgiving. How should we dress?
In Florida and the states, I would not worry about it, wear shorts if hot and just dress for the weather. No worries and have fun.
Bring plenty of warm clothing to layer over lighter day clothing. Bring umbrella and rain gear. Most of all, comfortable shoes.
Has Sarah ever had an issues of her dresses being considered a “costume” at Disney? I know they have new rules for costumes for adults. I would just hate to get turned away because of my dress.
Wondering what your thoughts are on wearing Crocs sandals at the park? Not the clog kind but the strappy or slip ons they have for women?
Hi Kim! I’m sure you’re not asking directly for my opinion, but I wanted to tell you about my experience with the crocs sandals last summer! If you do wear the crocs sandals, don’t get the type that go between your toes… it was a disaster for me and I had to buy a new pair of sandals at the sanuk store on day 1 of my trip! The crocs sandals created a massive blister between my big toe and second toe, to the point of me having to walk carefully for the remainder of the week (not fun when you’re doing so much walking!). Just a word of warning!
Totally silly question here… I’m going to the MNSSHP with some of my girlfriends. We are all in our 20’s no kids. We love the Sanderson Sister’s from Hocus Pocus and we’re going to wear themed t-shirts with their faces and a saying “I smell children”. Definitely don’t want to creep anyone out because it is from the movie and all in good fun! Thoughts from parents?
Hi! Do you find that wearing flip flops or dresses inhibit you from being able to ride any particular rides at all? I typically travel with light dresses too as they pack easily and are an insta-outfit, but wondered if there would be any rides I couldn’t ride in a dress? Like wise with the flip flops? Thanks a TON for this post!! Love all the tips and have nearly all the items in my amazon cart from your other post! Love it and thank you!!!!
Flip flops might take a toll on your feet over the course of an entire day–or entire week–in the parks, but you shouldn’t have a problem with any particular ride. Sarah does not have any issues.
I have visited Disney several times and almost always wear sun dresses, as that’s what I choose to wear normally most days, and I have never had a problem with them as far as rides or anything like that. I have worn flip flops occasionally but not everyday for the whole vacation. I try to switch off my shoes from one day to the next so I don’t wear the same pair two days in a row because with all the walking, my feet get fatigued. Enjoy your trip!
would love to know where she got the green dress she wore with the pluto hat.
I wish I have read your blog earlier, so I can get some of these items? Do you know where I can find the scandal and chilly pad in Orlando?
You can find that chilly pad on amazon
The only problem with your dress options. Is it doesn’t always work for those who are bigger…..
Torrid is the name of Hot Topic’s plus size store. They also have a disney line (dresses, tank tops, etc)
Torrid is not affiliated with Hot Topic but they do have high quality plus sized clothing… some of which is Disney.
Yeah, Sarah looks absolutely adorable in all these pictures, but her real secret isn’t her choice in dresses: It’s that she’s young, thin, and cute.
Torrid has amazing plus size dresses in lots of styles and pop culture lines. It’s a good place for more than Disney dresses with superhero themed collections as well as doctor Who. They make wonderful sundresses without character endorsements and I am particularly fond of the swing dresses they sell. Maurice’s also sells both regular and plus sized dresses that are really cute and comfortable. Torrid dresses seem to have the plus size price tag so they run a little more than you would expect to pay but the quality is very good.
Maybe a silly question, but how are the hair dryers at the Disney resorts? I ask because I have long, thick hair, and at a recent hotel stay I relied on the hair dryer in the room only to have it burn out before I could get mine and my small daughter’s hair dry. Wondering if theirs will work or if I should bring a compact one.
Sarah always brings her own for this reason.
My thought as well. Thank you so much!
What if I have short hair? I use my dryer at home but only takes about 5 mins to dry – will I be okay with the in room option?
Reading through your article was great help but I noticed that Sarah is wearing Black Milk in a couple of the photos, the marie scoop skater and the Ursula vs Ariel inside out dress. Black Milk has an amazing Disney range which, while might be out of some’s budget, is super high quality and worth the $$ (if you can afford)
This may not be the place but if you wear eyeware (glasses/ Contacts) get appropriate sun glasses at home so that you can see. Transitiona do not do it in Florida( I live here). Make sure they are comfortable. I recommend straps for kids and those that like thrill rides. Always being extra contacts they are really hard to find in a park or resort room.
Thanks for the Hot Topic advice. Never been before but their Disney line is adorable! I bought 5 dresses because I just couldn’t choose. I can’t wait for October now!
What does everyone wear under the dresses for extra coverage?
Bike shorts are my favorite go to! There are also short leggings with a lace hem, sort of like a modern take on bloomers, that prevent chaffing and give full coverage in case a gust of wind gets you.
I’m going to disneyworld in the middle of Nov.
How is the weather?
Can you wear shorts and sandals?
Hello! My family is planning our first trip to Disneyland in early Decmeber. Would a cardigan be warm enough for most days?
Krista we usually go the week before Christmas. Don’t let sunny southern California fool you. We’ve been caught unexpectedly by really chilly temperatures and had to scramble buying gloves, scarves, hats and warmer jackets. Our advice now is bring things that can be layered. Daytime can be beautiful, but early morning or later at night might need a little bit more. You’ll be glad you had choices. There are lockers in the park, so you can always stow away some of the things you may not need all day.
Sarah is so cute. If I looked like her (course I’m probably twice her age), I’d wear these dresses too. You go Sarah!
How tall is Sarah? Those dresses look so cute but I’m worried they’d be to short on me. If she’s 5’2″ I’ll know they won’t work for me; if she’s 5’10” they’d be long enough.
I’m also 5’2″ and the dresses from Hot Topic hit right at the knee. They are super comfortable & I’ve loved every single one I’ve bought (about 6 now!).
What size do you usually wear for Hot Topic? I typically wear a medium in Juniors or a XS/S in Women’s. I’m just not sure how the Hot Topic sizing is.
Does anyone know what October weather is like in Disney World? I’ll be travelling to WDW the first week of October and having never been to Florida (I’m from Vancouver, BC) I’m kind of lost on what to pack… ideas?
It’s still very warm! You will be most comfortable in shorts!
Hi! I usually go to disney every year around October, I will be happy to give you some tips. The weather depends on the amount of sun in the day. Usually, it is chilly, but not cold. If you stand on the sun and not the shade, wearing shorts would be okay. I live in a very hot place so for me, the weather is kind of cold, my sister even brings light mittens! At night its when it really get breezy, which is why I usually wear skinny jeans, to cover my legs from the cold air, and a light t’shirt, because the sun during the day is strong. I will also recomend a sweatshirt, but only if you are staying for the night, that way when you get cold you wont have to buy an expensive one. Hope that helped!
I know this is old, but I’m thinking you must live on the surface of the sun if you think it is “chilly” at WDW in October. The highs are frequently still in the upper 80’s and the nights can get a little cool, but a light jacket or just long sleeves is sufficient. We were there last year and the temps were near 90 every day.