Deciding what to wear at Disney World may sound like an easy task, but that’s one of the most common misconceptions among Disney first-timers. Sure, you’ll want to look great for your vacation photos, but you’ll also want to be dressed for the lines, the rides and the weather.
Let’s face it, you’ll be doing a TON of walking, so you need practical, comfortable footwear. Fortunately there are lots of stylish options for comfortable shoes these days. The athleisure trend has made it quite acceptable to wear sneakers with your street clothes, or you can even get away with yoga pants if you want. The key to looking cute and casual is to throw on a few accessories and make sure your clothing fits you well and is on trend.
WHAT TO WEAR TO DISNEY WORLD?
Pink spotty dress: Lee Mathews
1. CHECK THE WEATHER
Weather is important when you’re putting together an outfit. What to wear to Disney World in July is going to be quite different from what to wear to Disney World in February. July is the hottest month with temperatures averaging 28° c ( 82ºF). It’s also the month with the most rain. Jan/Feb are the coldest months in Orlando with temperatures averaging 15-16ºC (59-60ºF).
Cooler weather calls for long pants and long sleeves, maybe even a light jacket or sweater.
As it warms up, capris or cropped pants and a short sleeved top work well. Don’t fall into the trap of wearing a boring, baggy, crew neck t-shirt. These tend to look boxy and frumpy. Instead, try a V-neck or scoop neck top ( lower neck) and a little more fitted than a crew neck.
One other option is a casual sundress or maxi, but these wouldn’t be my first choice. Pants are much easier to move around in, especially when it comes to getting on and off rides.
2. WEAR COMFY SHOES
This seems obvious, but if you ignore this rule, it can totally ruin your fun. Don’t wear heels! Avoid shoes with hard wedges and heavy platforms. Also, stay clear of canvas shoes with paper-thin soles. Above all, never wear brand new shoes to Disney, even if they are fresh, out of the box sneakers that have been specifically designed for walking. There’s always a breaking-in period with shoes, and you don’t want to be limping around the Magic Kingdom looking miserable and in pain, begging for a band-aid.
What are the Best Shoes to wear to Disney?
Your best bet is a pair of lightweight walking shoes or sneakers that don’t pinch and have good arch support. Clunky sneakers will weigh you down and make you look like Goofy. Sandals with straps can dig into your skin, cut your feel and create blisters. Flip-flops simply don’t offer enough support.
A lightweight walking shoe with a comfort sole, that you have worn many times before is just what you need.
3. WEAR CLOTHES THAT BREATHE
It’s very crowded, and it gets hot, so if you tend to sweat a lot ( hello hot flashes), you’re best to wear natural fabrics like cotton and linen or wear a top in a sports fabric that wicks away moisture and keeps you dry. Also, STRETCH IS IMPORTANT! There’s nothing worse than walking around all day in tight pants that grab you between the legs. Pants that have a bit of spandex in them will make your day at Disney much more enjoyable.
4. BRIGHT COLORS COME IN HANDY
Leave the taupes, blacks, and grays at home and go for a top with a splash of color. Disney is sporty and fun, so dress accordingly. A bright red t-shirt or a purple windbreaker looks right at home in the Magic Kingdom and makes it a lot easier for your family to spot you if you accidentally wander off to do a little shopping.
5. TAKE ALONG A SWEATER OR A LAYERING PIECE
Things can heat up and cool down fast in Florida. I can remember going to Disney in December and freezing my legs off because of a freak cold snap that brought bone-chilling wind and strong rain along with it. I highly suggest you take along a light wrap, sweater or jacket of some type, especially if you are like me and tend to get chilly. It should be soft enough that you can easily roll up into a ball and toss into your bag or backpack. A small fold-up umbrella sure comes in handy when rain is forecast.
6. ADD A SPLASH OF COLOR
Light and bright colors look right at home in Disney World, and they will also help to keep you cool. That thing we’ve all heard about darker colors absorbing the sun is absolutely true, so sticking to lighter colors will keep you cooler on sunny days.
7. DISNEY MERCHANDISE
Speaking of Mouse Ears, Disneyland and Disney World are excellent places to wear your favorite Disney merchandise. Rock a Minnie Mouse shirt or wear your favorite Disney sweatshirt around your waist for a touch of Disney style.
8. ….. AND FINALLY! HAVE A MINI SHOOT IN FRONT OF THE CASTLE!
Accidents happen in busy, crowded theme parks. If you are worried about spilling something on it, ripping it, dropping it or losing it, don’t wear it. You want to feel relaxed and not worry, and you can’t do that if you are wearing something expensive, or precious.
I hope you’ve picked up a few style pointers to help you enjoy your day with Mickey and the gang. If you have some ideas of your own for what to wear to Walt Disney World, let me know.
