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What Is Bounding?
Bounding is a fun and creative way for fans to express their love for their favorite characters without donning a full-fledged costume. Coined by Leslie Kay, Disney Bounding involves putting together everyday clothing items to evoke the color schemes, patterns, and overall vibes of beloved Disney characters. It's a subtle and stylish homage that allows enthusiasts to showcase their Disney spirit.
Disney's Costume Rules
While traditional costumes are typically reserved for young guests or exclusively during special events, Disney Bounding offers a loophole for fans of all ages. Disney Bounding allows you to emulate your favorite characters without violating Disney's strict costume policies. This means no full-face character masks, full length ball gowns or any costume that might be mistaken for official park attire. Instead, focus on creating outfits that capture the essence of the characters in a casual creative way.
Best Shops in the UK for Bounding Outfits
Embarking on your Disney Bounding journey is even more enjoyable when you have the right wardrobe pieces. In the UK, there are several shops where you can find clothing items that align perfectly with Disney Bounding aesthetics. From high street fashion to online stores, these shops offer a range of options and budgets to help you curate your unique Disney-inspired looks.
Primark: This budget friendly high street store is a great option with a wide range of clothing and colours, they also stock officially licensed Disney items which can be great if you are shopping on a budget! This now also includes a wide range of Mickey Ears and Shoulder Buddies. My only gripe with Primark is the sizing which is inconsistent and often not made with plus size shapes in mind.
BooHoo.com: This is a great online option for any last minute Bounds with Next Day Delivery, which has saved me on more than one occasion with last minute changes to outfits. They have a plus size range with is great on sizing but often lacks in as many options as the standard sizing.
Shein: If you have time to plan and can wait for the delivery Shein has such a large range of clothing options for all sizes, you would be hard pushed not to be able to find the perfect items for you bounds from here.
It has an extensive and inclusive range, Shein provides sizes for various body types, which is a rarity in many other retailers. I appreciate the consistent sizing throughout their collection, allowing me to explore many options without breaking the bank. While Shein has faced allegations regarding child labor, it's important to note that these claims have never been conclusively proven. Staying informed about ethical practices is essential, and I acknowledge Shein's efforts towards responsible and sustainable fashion. With Shein, I've found an affordable and inclusive shopping experience that doesn't compromise on my style or comfort.
These are not the only retailers in the UK perfect for bounding but they are my favourites, especially as I'm plus size and finding a good fit for my shape can be challenging.
Planning
For those just starting with Disney Bounding, brainstorming ideas can be both exciting and challenging. When choosing your Bounds you can come from 1 of 2 directions:
1. Choosing your character first. Do you have a favourite character/movie you are desperate to bound as. It doesn't always have to be the main character, sometimes the more obscure the character the more fun it is when people recognise it. It's also important to consider the characters available for meet and greets at the time you are visiting the park. That's if you want to get pictures of you dressed up as the character you are meeting. Often times these are the best interactions and even as an adult leave to with lasting memories.
2. Or you can choose your bound depending on clothing or accessories you already have at home. This is exactly how I started bounding, going through my wardrobe finding colours and pairing them with other colours that would create a nod to a character. My very first bound was a very casual Snow White, it was super simple, Blue top, Yellow trousers, Red Bow in my hair and Red lipstick. Now that I have found my confidence with bounding I personally prefer a more elaborate outfit, however you can always keep it simple!
Whichever route you choose take a look at the gallery below for Bounding Ideas to help you. There are also lots more on Google/Instagram.
My Bounds
I am still fairly new to bounding myself, but it has quickly become a passion. For years I have struggled with my body type and only now I'm in my 30's am I gaining the confidence to shine in my own skin.
Last year I was planning my bounds for a trip to Disneyland Paris and the one thing I knew was that I wanted to be Rapunzel. I had purchased a beautiful multi-coloured pastel dress which I loved but after trying it on and seeing myself in the mirror I completely chickened out, I decided to buy my standard everyday leggings in Purple and wear a Lilac top. The trip was packed and I was about to leave when I ran back in and grabbed the dress...just in case. Once at Disney I decided I was going to wear the damn dress. I loved it, and I loved how I felt in it, I didn't feel uncomfortable and no one looked at me like I was weird, no one cared! I was at Disney and I felt like a Princess. The moral of my very longwinded story is "Wear the damn dress" wear what ever you want, be brave.
Remember, Disney Bounding is all about having fun, expressing your love for Disney characters, and showcasing your unique style. So, grab your favourite pieces from your wardrobe or explore the suggested UK shops, and let the magic of Disney Bounding unfold not only in the Parks but in your everyday fashion adventures as well!
Alix,
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