Cast Members around the World Showcase in Epcot will be getting new wardrobe very soon. Feedback from guests indicates that many see the WS as outdated--and Disney has decided that one easy way to update the scene is by changing the costuming, starting with the United States and Mexico, with other countries to follow in time. But not everyone is happy about it.
At least one cast member at the American Adventure has penned a
strongly-worded editorial in opposition of the new costumes (which are something akin to flight attendant uniforms, apparently), and if comments to the post are any indication, a majority of the public agrees that the traditional colonial costume should remain.
While I believe that new, fresh costumes would be an excellent idea, I have to agree that the traditional colonial feel is what makes the American costumes stand out from the crowd. Much like the kimono-inspired costumes of Japan, or the fez hats worn by Moroccan CMs, or the Lederhosen seen on CMs in Germany, the American Adventure costumes are representative of an influential time in our country's history. They are meant to portray an image that is uniquely American. If all the costuming in the WS were to represent the current/modern clothing styles of each country, most of the costumes would be similar to others.
Nothing would stand out or be unique.
No specific dates have been given as to when new costumes will begin appearing, but expect Disney to ignore the public outcry and move ahead with their plans...as they typically do. But here's hoping they're not too far into the design process to consider maintaining some historical uniqueness in the World Showcase.
