What to Wear to Disney World in 2023 (By a Local)
Deciding what to wear to Disney World is another fun part of the planning process. Not only do you want to look great in photos, but you also want to prioritize comfort for those long days at a theme park. Many people use their wardrobe to show off their favorite Disney characters and Mickey Mouse ears.
I’m an Orlando local, and I’m at Walt Disney World all the time. I can help you figure out exactly what to wear during your trip to Disney World so you can add it to your Disney packing list.
Let’s get started!
Table of Contents
- What Should I Wear To Walt Disney World?
- What to Wear to Disney World in Spring
- What to Wear to Disney World in Summer
- What to Wear to Disney World in Fall
- What to Wear to Disney World in Winter
- What to Wear to Disney World in the Rain
- What to Wear to Disney World Water Parks
- What NOT to Wear to Walt Disney World
- Tips for Dressing for a Disney Vacation
- FAQs about What to Wear at Disney World
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What Should I Wear To Walt Disney World?
When dressing for a trip to Walt Disney World, the following are suggestions for what to wear:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- T-shirts
- Tank tops
- Shorts
- Skirts
- Athletic clothing
- UV-protection clothing
- Hats
- Sunglasses
- Light rain jacket
- Sandals
- Mickey ears
When deciding what to wear to Disney World, the main factors are typically warm weather and lots of walking. Therefore, moisture-wicking and breathable fabrics are preferred. Some people even like to bring a change of clothes with them to the theme parks on particularly hot days. It depends on what Disney World activities you plan for the day.
Taking pretty photos is a priority for most people visiting Walt Disney World, but you should not forget about comfort as well. For example, wear bike shorts to avoid chafing if you are planning on wearing a cute dress on a warm day. Or, wear practical outfits to the Disney parks and change for a quick shoot in front of your favorite photo ops.
Florida is known for sunshine and heat, but we do have some cooler days here during the winter months. If you are visiting during winter, include lightweight layers to wear in the mornings and evenings.
What to Wear to Disney World in Spring
Spring weather can vary from cool to comfortable to hot. Florida weather can change frequently, so keep an eye on the forecast leading up to your Disney World vacation. Typically, you’ll want shorts and a T-shirt to stay cool during the warmest parts of the day. It is also a good idea to bring a light layer for cooler mornings and evenings:
Spring is the best time to visit Disney World for nice weather. You’ll most likely be enjoying daytime temperatures that are a bit warmer without being uncomfortable. Casual clothes are your best option, including short-sleeve shirts. Check the weather before your trip, because there is always a chance for rainy days.
ON sneakers are simultaneously cute and comfortable, making them the perfect shoe for Disney trips.
What to Wear to Disney World in Summer
Remember that Disney has a family-friendly dress code, but less is more when it comes to the weather conditions in summer. Not only are the summer months quite hot, but high humidity causes it to feel even hotter. Wear moisture-wicking and cooling materials. Less clothing might keep you cooler, but long-sleeve UV-protection clothing can help protect your skin from the sun.
- Wide brim hat
- Tank top
- Athletic dress
- Athletic shorts
- UV-protective clothing
- Light rain jacket
- Sandals
Staying cool is the name of the game in the summer. You definitely don’t want to wear your best clothes because they will be soaked with sweat before you make it to the rope drop. I always recommend athletic clothing with breathable or moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and comfortable while walking in the heat.
It is a good idea to bring a light rain jacket, poncho, or umbrella for the afternoon rain showers. These can also protect you on water rides like Kali River Rapids or Splash Mountain. Getting wet may sound like a good idea to cool down, but you will end up feeling heavy and muggy once the heat returns after the rain.
I’ve had this jacket for 5+ years and it has traveled around the world. There isn’t a clothing item that I recommend more.
What to Wear to Disney World in Fall
Fall weather can vary from pretty warm to comfortable cool. If you’re lucky enough to get cooler weather, take advantage by showing off your cutest boots and sweaters. The fall months are also the peak of hurricane season, so check the forecast to see if you’re getting a rainy amusement park day.
Disney World doesn’t get to enjoy the autumn experience of cool weather and leaves falling, so they have to fake it a bit. Luckily, guests can choose fall clothing items to help enhance the experience for them.
The Magic Kingdom is dressed up for Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, so you should dress up too. Disney-bound as your favorite villain or wear darker colors for a spooky look.
The weather in the fall can be unpredictable because a hurricane or a cool front could move through at any time. You might want to wear long pants on a cool morning, but remember that it will most likely heat up throughout the day while you’re at the theme parks.
I love this minimalist Halloween shirt with skeletons getting in the Disney spirit. This can be worn in warm or cool weather.
What to Wear to Disney World in Winter
Winter is a great time to wear whatever you want when visiting Disney World. Daytime temperatures are usually in the mid-70s with cool evenings. If you’ve seen people in dapper clothes or princess dresses, this is the most comfortable time to wear those outfits. Winter weather might feel cold to Floridians, but it will probably feel great to those visiting from up north.
Get excited to wear your cutest cozy outfit if you are heading to a Disney theme park on a cold day. The hot days far outweigh the cool ones, so you’ve got the opportunity to wear your best shoes and winter wear for cute photos.
I recommend always wearing a T-shirt under your long-sleeve tops because the middle of the day can still be warm. It is not unheard of for Orlando to be in the 80s during winter.
Since it is not as hot as summer, it can be hard to dry off after a water ride. Make sure you have ponchos along or skip the splashes when it’s cool. Still to the thrill rides so you aren’t walking around in wet clothes.
Get in the family and holiday spirit with these matching shirts that everyone will love!
What to Wear to Disney World in the Rain
It is not very common for Disney World to get rain all day or even for a few hours. However, it does happen, and you will want to be prepared to enjoy your day at a theme park. I don’t usually recommend flip-flops for walking around the parks, but they make it easy to dry off your feet. A high-quality rain jacket will help keep you dry, but rain pants will ensure total comfort.
You’ll be in for a treat if you don’t mind the rain because the parks tend to be far less busy during storms. However, you shouldn’t worry about being cute in what you wear at Disney during the rain. The goal is to stay dry, warm, and comfortable.
Bright colors can help you find your family members across the park when everyone is bundled up. It is not a bad idea to wear multiple layers of water protection, like a hat, jacket, and pants. Take indoor breaks during the day where you can shed your waterproof layers and dry off.
I recommend wearing sandals and drying off your feet as often as possible. If you would prefer to wear shoes, consider purchasing some waterproof covers or bring extra socks to keep your feet as dry as possible.
These sandals are minimalist and easy to wear. They dry quickly so your feet can be more comfortable after walking through rain puddles.
What to Wear to Disney World Water Parks
Bathing suits are encouraged, but they should be family-friendly when visiting the Disney water parks. Remember that you’ll be having fun on the rides when choosing what to wear at Disney water parks. Don’t wear anything that will ride up uncomfortably or accidentally come undone.
Choose a bathing suit and cover-up that are casual and comfortable when dressing for the water park. Maybe you prefer large T-shirts to cover-up dresses. Either way, you’ll want something to throw over your bathing suit when heading to the bathroom or restaurants.
Keep sun protection in mind when choosing your outfit. Some people prefer long-sleeve UV protection whereas others prefer to slather on sunblock. Sunglasses and a hat can also help prevent sun damage.
This piece is a towel and cover-up in one! It is easy to throw on and head towards the water.
What NOT to Wear to Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World has the right to turn away or request an outfit change for any guests who are dressed inappropriately. This includes offensive language and images. Additionally, guests over the age of 14 may not wear costumes or masks to the park (except for certain holiday events).
Additionally, Disney World may ask guests with torn or stringy clothing to change their outfits. This is a safety precaution to prevent clothing from catching on some attractions.
In addition to following Disney’s clothing guidelines, you should also prioritize comfortable clothing to wear at Disney. Avoid heels and uncomfortable shoes that could cause pain or blisters when walking all day. Do not wear heavy materials that can become waterlogged after a storm and cannot be removed in the heat of the day.
📖 Read Next: The Best Places to Stay at Walt Disney World
Tips for Dressing for a Disney Vacation
Prioritize Comfort
If you are planning on spending all day at a theme park, you want to ensure that your clothing will be comfortable for many hours. Thankfully, there are plenty of comfortable athleisure and casual clothing options so you still look great for your vacation photos.
🛏️ Looking for accommodations for Walt Disney World? See our guide to the best hotels at Disney World.
Think of Your Feet
Comfortable shoes are a must when you visit Walt Disney World. Sneakers or running shoes are recommended. If you prefer sandals, choose a pair with a supportive sole and many straps to hold your foot. Avoid wearing flip-flops when you could be walking over 20,000 steps in one day. This is one of the most important tips for visiting Disney World!
Look Cute for Photos
In the age of social media, everyone wants to take home fantastic vacation photos to share with their friends and families. Choose your favorite character shirt and Mickey ears to highlight your Disney experience. You can find beautiful inspiration for Disney World outfits on social media platforms like Pinterest.
Prepare for Rain
In Florida, summer weather almost always includes rain, but storms can roll in any time of year. Even if the weather forecast is clear, have ponchos, an umbrella, or light rain jackets in your park bag. You’ll be grateful not to get soaked when a surprise storm pops up.
Always Remember Sun Protection
Even in winter, the Sunshine State stays true to its name. Always remember to use sunblock. Bring along sunglasses, hats, and protective clothing for everyone in your group. You don’t want your Disney trip to be ruined by a nasty sunburn.
FAQs about What to Wear at Disney World
What clothes are comfortable at Disney World?
For comfortable clothes at Disney World wear shorts and short sleeves made of breathable fabric on hot or warm days. Tennis shoes offer comfort and support for long days walking around the amusement parks. For cooler weather, it is a great idea to wear a light jacket that can be removed as the day gets a bit warmer.
What should moms wear to Disney?
Moms should wear whatever makes them comfortable and confident to Disney World! If they are going to be wrangling kids throughout the theme parks, lightweight cotton shorts, a tank top, a comfortable pair of tennis shoes, and a fanny pack will have them ready for action.
Should you wear jewelry to Disney?
You should only wear light jewelry to Disney World. A Disney vacation is not the time to show off your most expensive jewels. However, you can include light jewelry that compliments your outfit. Avoid long necklaces and heavy bracelets that can be troublesome.
How can I look cute at Disney World?
To look cute at Disney World (while maintaining comfort), pair one of your favorite Disney t-shirts or tank tops with athletic bottoms. Women can wear a moisture-wicking athletic skirt with built-in shorts and men can wear lightweight shorts. Supportive sneakers are currently in fashion and look great with a decorative sock.
What is “Disney-bounding”?
To Disney-bound, you will use the color scheme of a character’s costume to create your own similar outfit. For example, a Winnie the Pooh Disney-bound would include a red shirt and yellow bottoms. You could also add character touches with your accessories, like a honey pot necklace.
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If there is one priority when deciding what to wear at Disney World, it should always be comfort. Luckily, we have tons of cute and fun clothing options to look our best while feeling great at the parks. Next up, check out my itinerary for Disney World so you have the perfect plan for your trip!
