With the reopening of Disneyland Hotel at Disneyland Paris, we debuted a new impressive collection of cast costumes created as only Disney can do – with Walt Disney Imagineering guidance, exclusive French designs and of course, amazing cast member creativity and attention to detail!
Totaling 27,777 pieces, these innovative and sophisticated costumes were inspired by beloved Disney Princes and Princesses and bring out the detailed royal theme of the hotel. But how exactly did these costumes come to be? Like every story, there is a spark of inspiration that builds into a grandiose adventure.
From artistic briefs with Walt Disney Imagineering and designing exquisite mood boards to seeing the first canvases and prototypes come to life, there were many steps and processes that went into creating an entirely new wardrobe for Disneyland Hotel cast members. One of the unique elements that make these costumes so special is the partnership with Société Dutel, a fabric manufacturer based in the Lyon region that specializes in jacquard weaving to assist in the design.
“We are very happy and proud to know that our fabrics, made in our factory in France, will be worn by Disneyland Hotel cast members,” said Jean-Christophe Dutel, Managing Director of Société Dutel.
According to cast member Karine Soares, Fashion Designer for Disneyland Paris, “Mr. Dutel’s expertise in materials and his knowledge of the unique needs of our destination were essential in adapting the materials, while preserving their initial appearance, enabling us to produce costumes that are both beautiful and elegant, but also comfortable and long lasting.”
While speaking on her design inspiration for these costume pieces, Karine explained much of her inspiration was drawn from Disney Princes and Princesses but also from the Victorian and medieval eras, to fully bring out the royal theme within the patterns, materials, and details while retaining a contemporary look. Similarly, to the resilience of these beloved characters, the resilience of these new costumes was tested within the design office.
“It was important for us to have a chic, contemporary feel, while integrating a regal element into the suits,” said Karine. Innovation is also at the forefront of the designs; ensuring cast members feel comfortable in their costumes, the materials used are lightweight and allow greater freedom of movement.
The costumes adorned in different jewel buttons is what Karine is most proud of. “I’m very proud of the Fleur de Lys jewel. We’ll be using it on the ascot ties and headwear. It’s that little ‘je ne sais quoi’ that gives the costume an elegant, regal finish!”
The cast were so excited to put these costumes into action, check out a behind-the-scenes video of their first photo together wearing these new looks! For an inside look at the Disneyland Hotel reopening, be sure to follow @DLPAmbassadors on Instagram and check out more exclusive content coming soon to the Disney Parks Blog.