Being a Cast Member in Disney World or Disneyland can have its perks, but it also comes with some uniquely strict restrictions.
Pecos Bill Cast Members
The “Disney Look” is a set of guidelines for Cast Member appearance that strives to create a cast of polished and clean looking Cast Members who uphold the standards of Disney. And yes, the restrictions can be pretty limiting! However, at the end of this month will bring some changes to the Disney Look that will give Cast Members a little more room to show their style.
The Disney Look has been in place in Disneyland since 1959 and in Disney World since 1971. The guidelines regulate all sorts of aspects like hair, jewelry, fingernails, tattoos, and make-up. The new changes make the restrictions on facial hair and jewelry a little more relaxed.
Cast Members at Flo’s
Prior to 2000, male Cast Members were not allowed to sport any kind of facial hair but due to staffing issues at the turn of the century, mustaches were added in to the acceptable aspects of the Disney Look. Beards came soon after in 2012, although it was mandated that they be kept no longer than a quarter-inch in length.
Now, the guidelines are changing to allow beards of one inch. So, Cast Members still won’t walk around looking like Yensid the Wizard, but they have a little more freedom of facial hair!
Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Merchandise
As for jewelry, Cast Members can now wear one bracelet and one necklace if they like. Previously, all bracelets and necklaces were prohibited unless they were standard medical alert devices. Cast Members can certainly use this new guideline as a way to better express themselves!
Hollywood Studios Cast Member
These new guidelines go into effect on October 28th, so if you’re a Disney Look aficionado — don’t be too surprised when you start seeing those longer beards!
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I dont like the idea of facial hair on the cast members. Unless it’s for a look like in Critter Country. Jewelry, I dont mind small earrings, a small necklace. I would be concerned about bracelets and the ability to catch on equipment if they are in charge of rides and things. I like the old school, wholesome look of Disney. It’s a place of memories and nostalgia not cast member trends and society conforming.
Eh I dont care for facial hair either mustache maybe but beards no..The jewerly is okay
@D Christensen Once they let loose with alcohol available in every corner of every park, your “wholesome” Disney went goodbye anyway. Times change, and that can be a good thing! (FWIW, I do NOT think that the ability to get booze everywhere in Disney is a good thing. But a well-groomed beard? It’s fine.)
I think Walt would be disappointed with the direction his company has gone
Oh my, facial hair and jewelry, what IS the world coming to? 🙄
I’m glad they’re loosening up a little, for the CM’s sakes. Now, what I wish they’d do is stop cutting their budget for entertainment staff, because that IS wrecking my Disney vibe. I miss the Muppets in Liberty Square, and the musicians and dancers in Harambe Village.
I could see some cast members using the jewelry as a way to make a controversial statement. I wonder how Disney will deal with that…
I am fine with facial hair although I prefer it to be on men. They need to relax the regulations or increase cast member wages otherwise they are going to lose their target applicant pool because they can no longer afford to work there with student loans and other financial obligations.
I think the release of alcohol in MK should be thought out a little better. Like sit down dinners only since it is really the only park catering very little ones.
EPCOT is there for beverages around the world but although I would like to have a drink or two with a meal… little kids don’t really understand intoxicated however harmless the person is. It is crazy busy and cram packed everyday so all it takes is for some poor person to maybe have one too many and knock someone’s kid over or bump into someone carrying a baby and bad feelings everywhere. Anyway, my 2 cents.
Just wondering… has anyone else pondered why Disney doesn’t just buy Universals Theme Park out? Universals system is way too decentralized and Disney has centralized systems down pat. They are competing against one another even though Universals target market is much smaller where Disney has something for everyone.