Minnie Mouse Has A New Outfit And It’s Causing Major Controversy

The classic character Minnie Mouse is getting a totally new outfit and it has some folks not all that pleased with the updated look.

By Charlene Badasie | Published

This article is more than 2 years old

minnie mouse

Created in 1928, Minnie Mouse has always been impeccably clothed in her red and white polka-dot dress, white gloves, a bow, white bloomers, and low-heeled shoes – which sometimes have ribbons on them. Until now… Disney has decided to update the iconic character’s outfit with something more relevant. For her new look, Miss Mouse ditches the dress and the stereotypical “girlie” colors for a blue pantsuit.

But it won’t be just any old off-the-rack blue slacks. Minnie Mouse will have her outfit custom-made by British fashion designer Stella McCartney. A sneak peek of Minnie’s new statement suit hit the internet a few days ago. But her full makeover will be unveiled in March to commemorate International Women’s Day and the 30th Anniversary of Disneyland Paris

Speaking about the unique project Stella McCartney, who was chosen to create the look because of her legacy of female leadership and commitment to sustainability, said Minnie Mouse has always had a place in her heart. “We share the same values, and what I love about Minnie is that she personifies happiness, self-expression, and authenticity, the designer told CNN Style. “Plus she has such great style.”

Although Disney has several characters that don’t wear any pants at all, Minnie Mouse wanting to upgrade her wardrobe with a Stella McCartney designer pantsuit has been met with mixed feedback from fans on social media. “I was never a Disney mascot fan but WTF?” one person wrote. “What’s next, will she transition into a Michael so Mickey can fully express himself?” “More woke BS. The design is nice but we’re talking about a character that is almost 100 years old,” someone else pointed out.

Check out more fan reactions to Minnie Mouse below…

Pantsuits are a staple in the wardrobes of female world leaders, with politicians like former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, former U.S Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, and U.S Vice President Kamala Harris each having their own unique take on the style. Minnie Mouse’s statement-making ensemble is a bespoke blue with black polka dots and a matching bow. It’s made with responsibly sourced fabrics, McCartney told CNN. She hopes Minnie’s new look will be seen as a symbol of progress and empowerment for a new generation.

Disney’s Minnie Mouse outfit makeover is the latest in a long line of controversial moves made by the company over the last few years. Sadly, their attempt to implement more progressive policies with their content has been met with lots of criticism. In October 2020, the company came under fire when it announced that a racism warning would be included on several classic movies as they were released on its streaming service. This includes 1970’s The Aristocats, 1955’s Lady and the Tramp, and 1960’s  Swiss Family Robinson – which all depict and/or refer to people of color in a derogatory manner.

While some folks see these changes as a move to destroy their childhood memories, others will welcome them as a sign of respect and restored dignity. As such, Disney’s collaboration with Stella McCartney will also include a limited T-shirt collection, featuring Minnie Mouse with the phrase “Divine Feminine” in bold print. The shirt will appear on the runway at the March 7th Stella McCartney Winter 2022 show. It will be available for purchase the following day.