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Disney steps into the fashion world
Mickey and Minnie Mouse have been Disney symbols ever since they first appeared on TV back in 1928. Created by Walt Disney and UB IWork, the two black mice with big round ears and iconic clothes are recognisable even by their shadows.
But in the 21st century, Walt Disney creations blossomed into more than just funny cartoons on TV, they became a huge part - and inspiration for - the fashion industry.
Every kid grows up watching Disney cartoons. But what is so appealing about the characters that even when people grow up, they take their fashion inspiration from them?
There seems to be something about anthropomorphized animals that fashion world just can’t get enough of.
Collaborations between various designer brands like Kenzo, Marc by Marc Jacobs, Supreme and Disney have been rocking the fashion world for almost ten years. Limited edition collections with prints and shapes of Disney characters mainly dominated couture and big brand collections rather than the high street fashion stores.
But recently, collaborations with Cath Kidston, Uniqlo and even Primark changed that idea.
In 2016 Cath Kidston announced their first limited edition collection together with Disney, celebrating Winnie Pooh's 90-year anniversary. Together with Cath Kidston's signature detailed polka dots and flowers designs, they included little cartoons of the bear and other characters. Later on that year they repeated their collab, but this time it was all about the main characters Mickey and Minnie mouse.
"The feedback we've received regarding these limited edition collections has been very positive and we I can confirm that we do plan to offer further collaborations with Disney," said Anne Harris, customer service advisor at Cath Kidston.
As most of the collaborations between Disney and fashion industries are limited editions or only in specific collections, some are starting to introduce an ongoing production. One of those brands is Primark. Their on-budget apparel has featured cartoon characters for around three years now.
Disney characters bring the pop culture to another level. Fashionistas who still have a child inside of them can express their nostalgia for princesses and cute talking animals through their appearance, without being shamed for looking childish.
Expressing yourself and not being afraid to do so has been a motto of Vans for decades, and as with most brands, their collaboration with Disney was a success. Their shoes with Disney characters on them became a unique spice for anyone's style.
“I was obsessed about Disney when I was a kid, so a little part of me always wants to have it with me now. I think it is great that Disney is growing up together with their fans,” said Nai Yio, a member of D23, the international Disney fan club.
As more and more fashion brands join the Disney cult, there is no doubt that Disney will be no longer just a children’s favourite. Don’t be afraid to show your inner child as childhood is coming back to the fashion world with a bang!
By Ieva Rakojedaite
