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Maybe you’ve noticed that Mickey Mouse is everywhere. If you feel like you’re constantly finding yourself on a hidden Mickey hunt—and winning effortlessly—that’s because the beloved Disney character recently turned 90. Yup, he actually made his first big screen debut on Nov. 18, 1928, on Steamboat Willie, credited as the first cartoon with synchronized sound. Since then, he has grown into a well-loved character by people of all ages, and a household name all over the world. And of course, since he is Mickey, only the most iconic character of the animation giant Disney, this is no ordinary birthday celebration. For this momentous anniversary, Disney launched its True Original campaign, a global project that celebrates the character’s heritage through various brand collaborations and special-edition products.
Okay, this isn’t new. In fact, Disney’s first collaboration with clothes was a fashion show held in 1978 called “The Evolution of American Women,” and obviously many more followed suit—but for Mickey’s birthday, plenty of fashion designers made sure to make their collaboration extra special. After all, not everyone gets to the big 9-0 with a bang.
So if a loved one of yours is obsessed with Mickey or Disney, this Christmas is the best time to surprise them with a limited edition item in honor of the True Original’s 90th Birthday. Here are some of the best collaborations out there.
Rag & Bone
Mickey isn’t limited to just being cute, he can be tough and cool too. This is what Rag & Bone aims to portray in their collaboration with Disney. The New York-based brand describes the unisex collection as a reimagining of “[Mickey Mouse’s] heritage with a New York sensibility.” It features an edgy, darker palette using the character’s signature hues, and employs colorblocking, as well as Mickey Mouse prints incorporated on distinctly Rag & Bone pieces. Available on Net-a-porter.
H&M
This retail giant is not lost in honoring the beloved character. They released their own collection featuring tees, sweaters, and even swimsuits with the character front and center. For your pal who needs something formal but wants to show off their love for Mickey in a low-key way, cop this collared, button-down shirt in an airy cotton weave, long sleeves and minimalist Mickey Mouse print. Available at SM Makati.
Vans
To celebrate the true original, Vans and Disney came together to deliver a truly amazing collection. Vans captured Mickey’s journey through the years by featuring different imageries representative of his evolution and incorporating them to different apparel, accessories, and of course, footwear. The brand remastered its different silhouettes like the Sk8-Hi, Old Skool, and the classic Slip Ons to reflect their distinct sensibilities, and edgy Off The Wall attitude. Available at Robinsons Galleria.
Swatch x Damien Hirst
Another tribute we love is this artful take by Swatch and Damien Hirst who teamed up for this set of collector’s watches. It features the well-known artist’s signature minimalist aesthetic by breaking down the form of Mickey into a precise pattern of circles, accompanied by color-blocked bands complete, and of course, Hirst’s signature. Available at Glorietta 4.
Karen Walker
Karen Walker made a party out of their collaboration with Disney. For this collection, the team shared that “both Mickey and Karen’s Runaway Girl have an inherent sense of adventure, so the collection is a nod to the heritage of both brands and celebrates their fun love and adventurous spirit.” It features an assortment of bright-colored ready-to-wear apparels, eyewear, jewelry, accessories, and homeware. Sadly, not all of them are available here in the country. Nonetheless, your loved one will surely appreciate this 9kt gold with a runaway Mickey outline pendant. Available on Farfetch.
Art by Marian Hukom
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