This week, as the piles of snow melt and signs of Spring have started to appear, I'm reminded that it's not long before the Dapper Day event arrives at Walt Disney World.
With the dates set for Saturday April 26th at Epcot and Sunday April 27th at Magic Kingdom, it means it's time to start preparing your refined style. So here are five things to remember when curating your outfits;
5. Have Fun with Choosing your Ensemble
Each person's definition of "dapper" varies, so when building your outfit, choose something that makes you happy. It might be a style from a previous decade, but it doesn't have to be.
As many of you know, I LOVE bounding, so my Dapper outfits tend to be bounds. Having attended the Spring and Fall Dapper events in 2024, I saw many people bounding and loving a chance to do both simultaneously. My favorite outfit from last year's Fall Dapper Day was Dapper Elsa, which I wore to Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Dapper Elsa Bound:
- Light blue tulle and lace dress
- White long-sleeve under the dress
- White socks
Paired with the accessories from our Ice Queen Bounding Box
- 2 Snowflake Hair Clips
- Snowflake Bangle
- Snowflake patterned Scarf
& - Snowflake Ring
It's worth repeating; while I love it, bounding is it's not a requirement. Your outfit, your rules, so have fun with it.
4. The Weather
Florida's weather is notorious for changing quickly, so be prepared for sun, rain, wind, or all of the above on the same day. When planning your outfit, I recommend building based on layers, so if Epcot is hotter than the sun's surface, your outfit has a short-sleeve option, and you're not stuck wearing a thick, heavy cardigan.
3. PhotoPass Photographers are Your Friends
These fantastic Cast Members are found throughout the parks and are more than willing to help capture that perfect photo with you. They'll use their professional camera and/or your phone to take the shots (whichever you prefer). Be sure to tap into their talents and snag a photo or two of you in your dapper best.
2. Show your Support
A lot of work goes into organizing these events, and while I don’t know them personally, I’m incredibly thankful for the people who have created this community. They provide an environment for all of us to meet new friends and step out in style. If it weren't for their labor of love, Dapper Day weekends would not exist. I encourage you to take a minute to read through the Dapper Day Story and browse through the beautiful selection of pins, parasols, and clothing in their Dapper Day store
&
1. The Social Side of a Dapper Event
Never have I ever met a more welcoming group of Disney Adults. I'd be lying if I said I don’t get nervous walking towards Dapper Day meet-ups on my own, but that feeling has always been quickly replaced by people welcoming me and us chatting about the fantastic outfits they’re wearing. Don't let your nerves hold you back, these events can be times to meet genuinely amazing people who quickly go from strangers to friends.
Whether you choose a scarf, a cloche hat, a beautifully embellished parasol, or something else that fits your vision of refined style, I hope to see you smiling at WDW's Spring Dapper Day weekend.
~Kelly