Showing my Disney Side – Mulan

by Sunny

follow me on Twitter @Sunnylooksleaps

My most challenging Disney Side post to date!  How do I capture one of Disney’s most unique and heroic Princesses in a modern day outfit?  Will the look flop, or will I bring honor to my family?  Read on to find out!

The character: Mulan

mulan doll

The style: So I had some options with Mulan.  She wears a casual green kimono-style dress at home, and then she eventually disguises herself as a male soldier so that her aging father does not have to enlist.  Neither of those are as memorable as her pink, purple, and navy traditional Chinese dress.  She is getting ready to meet the Matchmaker who will hopefully find her a husband and therefore bring honor to her family.  During the song “You’ll Bring Honor to Us All,” Mulan is washed, dressed, primped and primed to be a bride.  For most of the song, Mulan is obviously uncomfortable and even looks puzzled when she sees her reflection in the mirror.  She’s nervous and doesn’t look or feel like herself.

My Mulan look

My Mulan look

My look: I wanted to try to copy the basic silhouette, but I couldn’t overlook the vibrant colors. I used a knee-length black dress as my basic piece.  I paired it with a cream-colored top.  I think the wider sleeves help create the Mulan look.  And since my top and skirt are neutrals, I went with color for my accessories.  The colorful scarf around my waist mimics Mulan’s sash as well as the color scheme from her outfit.  I think the “beads of jade for beauty” are a nice touch.  And as much as I was apprehensive about it, I went for the Chinese-style bun with hair sticks.  If Mulan could dress outside of her comfort zone, then so could I!

The reaction: I have to admit I didn’t wear the outfit for an entire day, only to run an errand.   My daughter watched me put the outfit together and asked what character I was.  She was skeptical until she saw the finished look.  After she took the picture for me, she said, “Looks good, Mulan Mom!”  I’ll take it.

Read my previous Showing my Disney Side posts:

Minnie Mouse

Belle

Alice in Wonderland

Snow White

Do you have a favorite Disney character that you think I should channel? Leave your suggestions in the comments section!