If you have ever heard of the “Disney Look“, you probably have noticed that every Cast Member’s appearance follows specific guidelines.
Credit: Disney
You never see messy hair, facial hair that is not fully groomed, nails painted, or tattoos exposed — and that is because, until now, the majority of these things were prohibited.
Yesterday, however, Disney announced that changes were coming to their look to create “A Place Where Everyone is Welcome”. Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Chairman Josh D’Amaro released a statement on behalf of Disney Parks stating that Disney was moving in a more inclusive direction with gender-inclusive hairstyles, jewelry, nail styles, and costume choices as well as appropriate visible tattoos.
Now, the Cast Member handbook has been updated, and we can see the specifics of what will be permitted, and what will not be!
Having tattoos be allowed to be seen on Cast Members is a huge move for the company, as, previously, a tattoo could hinder you from working for the company. Now, it seems that so long as your tattoo is smaller than your hand and not offensive (full list on prohibited depictions below) Cast Members are allowed to show off their ink.
TATTOOS
Visible tattoos are permitted, with the exception of placement on the face, head or neck. Tattoos must be no larger than the Cast Member’s hand when fully extended with the fingers held together. Undergarments, which include matching fabric tattoo sleeves, are permitted for coverage of larger tattoos on the arms. Tattoos that depict nudity, offensive or inappropriate language or images, or violate Company policies (including policies prohibiting discrimination and harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, ancestry, age, disability or any other protected category) are not permitted.
Credit: Josh D’Amaro Instagram
Previously, nail polish (specifically colored nail polish) was not allowed on all Cast Members, but now, it seems that as long as the color is unanimous on each nail without any decals, painted nails are now allowed for Cast Members of all genders!
NAILS
Nails should be clean. If polish is used, it should be the same on each nail and well maintained in one solid color or French manicure style. Charms or decals on nails are not permitted. Fingernails should not exceed one-fourth of an inch beyond the fingertip.
Credit: Disney
Hairstyles have also received an update, and it seems that Disney is accepting anything that looks “well maintained” in terms of style. When it comes to hair color, unnatural colors are still not allowed such as “blue, green, pink, purple”, however, other colors that look natural are allowed.
HAIRSTYLING & HAIR COLORING
Hairstyles that are clean and well maintained represent our Disney brand. Hair length, including completely shaved styling, is at the Cast Member’s discretion. Hair below shoulder length should be secured if it falls forward over the face or covers the nametag while working. If the hair color is changed, it should be well maintained and in natural occurring hues. Examples of hair colors that are not considered natural would be colors such as blue, green, pink, purple, etc. The shaving of lines or shapes in the hair is permitted provided they do not depict offensive words or symbols.
Credit: Disney
Piercings are still not permitted unless they are on Cast Member’s ears, and a Cast Member cannot physically change their look to be distracting, such as “tongue piercing or splitting, tooth filing, earlobe expansion, and disfiguring skin implants”. Now, Disney Cast Members can adhere to a less rigid dress code. In terms of gender-inclusive costume choices, it seems that as long as Cast Members’ costumes are neatly worn, they are acceptable, but do not deem who will need to wear what items of clothing specifically.
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Credit: Disney
