From a young age, Paige always had a passion for fashion. Watching movie credits roll, she found herself mesmerized by the costume designers’ names. Her dreams of dressing television and film stars took a defined turn toward the enchanting world of Disney after a memorable trip to Disneyland during her college days. Today, Paige is living her dream as a Senior Costume Buyer at Disneyland Resort, where she works magic behind the scenes, shaping the fabric of Disneyland’s captivating costumes.
In her role, Paige handles the meticulous task of sourcing materials for Operational and Entertainment costuming. Whether it’s requesting lab dips, strike-offs, or ordering bulk yardage once a fabric is chosen, the precision of her work ensures that each costume meets the designer’s vision. Whenever a longtime fabric becomes unavailable, it’s Paige’s job to reimagine and source an alternative, keeping the integrity and consistency of the Disneyland costumes intact.
Paige’s journey isn’t without its challenges, but she cherishes the intricate details that go into every piece. One of her favorite projects was helping bring the character Rey to life in Disneyland. Each part of Rey’s costume required immense detail and dedication to make sure it reflected the authenticity seen on the big screen. Guests might overlook the finer details, but for Paige, it’s all in the thread – every element is meticulously chosen to enhance the guest experience.
The joy of sourcing the perfect fabric or trim is a reward in itself. “I love when the designer’s eyes light up and they say, ‘That’s exactly what I was thinking about!’,” Paige shares. Witnessing costumes transcend from sketches to tangible reality, she finds the greatest satisfaction when cast members feel comfortable and authentic in what they wear.
The world of costume buying is a rare and specialized niche, and within Disney, Paige is one of only three team members tasked with sourcing new project fabrics and materials for all operational costumes. Each project is a testament to her skill and dedication, ensuring that the magic of Disney remains seamless and timeless.
Have any thoughts or questions about Paige’s role at Disneyland? Share your comments below and engage with us! Don’t forget to share this story with fellow Disney fans.
Source: Life at Disney
