Did you know that adults aren’t allowed to wear costumes inside of Disney parks? It’s true. Aside from the annual Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, costumes are limited to children under 14. Which is probably for the best really (you don’t want someone’s weird Aunt Mildred to come dressed as Cinderella and traumatize a whole host of little girls hoping to meet the “real” thing). But it’s definitely disappointing for Disney fans who are older than 14, but very much still young at heart.
That’s why The Dress Shop on Cherry Tree Lane, located in Disney’s themed shopping district Disney Springs, is a dream come true for adult Disney fans. Not only are the dresses and accessories adorably retro, but each piece is inspired by a Disney character or attraction. So, not costumes exactly, but the next best thing.
In fact, the clothes at The Dress Shop are perfect for DisneyBounding! Never heard of DisneyBounding? Allow me to enlighten you. Because of Disney’s strict rules around costumes inside the park, resourceful Disney fans have come up with an alternative. DisneyBounding is the practice of creating an outfit inspired by a Disney character that isn’t actually a costume. Usually, the outfit incorporates the character’s signature color scheme and other style elements.
Which is exactly what the dresses and accessories at The Dress Shop are designed to do. Check out this Belle-inspired dress, for example:
We love this new Belle dress and Beauty and the Beast themed bag that arrived at The Dress Shop on Cherry Tree Lane yesterday! pic.twitter.com/2b1RcKX7uE
— Disney Springs (@DisneySprings) April 1, 2017
The dress is Belle’s signature blue, and features a design of books and enchanted objects. It’s obvious which character this dress is based on, but the outfit is understated enough that you could wear it with pride outside of Disney Parks. (Also, check out that purse that looks like Chip! So cute.)
Merchandiser Donna Sorrow told Disney Parks Blog, “These items aren’t costumes, rather the collection contains perfect outfits for guests who have a passion for Disney style.” Meaning, if (like me) you’re a Disney fan through and through, you’ve probably already got a few dresses like these in your closet. But you haven’t had ones specifically designed with Disney themes. Until now.
While there are lots of dress options for fans interested in channeling their favorite characters, other dresses are inspired by Disney attractions. Like the Enchanted Tiki Room (top left) and The Haunted Mansion (top right). (See how the pattern on the dress is the same as the wallpaper from the ride?!)
Step out in style in a brand new dress from The Dress Shop at Cherry Tree Lane – now open at Marketplace Co-Op! 👗 pic.twitter.com/2eeXIqYAwM
— Disney Springs (@DisneySprings) March 31, 2017
Each dress comes with its own accessories that tie into the theme and complete the look. Like this apple handbag and headband, inspired by Snow White.
https://twitter.com/WDWToday/status/847813911084707840
I don’t know about you, but I’m itching to get my hands on one (or tons) of these dresses. Unfortunately, they’re not yet available online. But, hey, a girl can dream.
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