Ever wondered what it takes to create costumes for dozens of shows and attractions, and even more so for the thousands of cast members who bring magic to Disney parks every day?
Enter the Disneyland Paris Sewing Workshop, a team of about 100 professionals dedicated to making the outfits worn by Disney characters, dancers in shows, parade performers and, of course, all of the attractions, shops, restaurants and hotels, and every cast member in them!
On one hand, you have the design team – where concepts are created – made up of costume designers, costumiers, assistants, graphic designers and also a team of cosmetology creative experts. And, on the other hand, the Sewing Workshop – where the production of concepts comes to life – made up of about 50 dressmakers, milliners, pattern makers, tailors and even a wig maker.
There is so much incredible talent, with each person a master of detail and precision, working to create each of the costumes that guests admire every day. Here are some fun facts by the numbers:
- It’s estimated that Mickey Mouse has more than 200 costumes for shows, parades, seasonal events and special parties – something for every occasion! Minnie Mouse also has her owned incredible wardrobe with no fewer than 150 outfits, even a haute couture dress created by Alber Elbaz in 2013!
- About 60,000 stage costume items are used for shows at Disneyland Paris. For example, more than 400 costumes were created over two years for “The Lion King: Rhythms of the Pride Lands,” requiring 2,541 meters of fabric and 112 pairs of custom-made shoes. For “The Jungle Book Jive,” more than 2,000 pieces of traditional jewelry appear from Rajasthan, India.
- There are about 8,000 cast members in operational roles at the resort who are dressed by the Disneyland Paris costuming teams, with 692 designs to date since 1992.
- In 2019 alone, 29,000 meters of fabric were ordered by the costuming teams.
This huge workshop is a dream come true for children and adults, for fans of our shows, attractions and even fashion design enthusiasts like famous French fashion designer Chantal Thomass, who recently stopped by the shop. Watch the video below for a behind-the-scenes look at her visit!