Disney Unveils New “Create Your World” Episode Featuring Viktor&Rolf and Mattel Collaboration
Ta-Nehisi CoatesAuthor and journalist whose work on culture, race, and history includes writing for Marvel's "Black Panther."
Disney is expanding its innovative "Create Your World" documentary series with a fresh episode that delves into the partnership between the esteemed fashion label Viktor&Rolf and toy giant Mattel. This upcoming special, scheduled for release on March 24 across Hulu and ABC, will provide viewers with an exclusive, in-depth exploration of the artistic journey behind the creation of the Viktor&Rolf x Disney Collector Cinderella Doll. Filmmaker Reiner Holzemer captures every stage of this ambitious project, tracing its evolution from the initial design sketches in Amsterdam to its ultimate unveiling in the fashion capital of Paris, showcasing the intricate fusion of haute couture and beloved storytelling.
The designers, Viktor Horsting and Rolf Snoeren, express their enthusiasm for the documentary, noting that fashion serves as their narrative medium. They view this special as an unparalleled opportunity to demystify their creative universe, sharing the boundless imagination, meticulous craftsmanship, and whimsical fantasy that define Viktor&Rolf, all through the enchanting perspectives of Disney and Mattel. This installment marks the third in the "Create Your World" series, following successful collaborations with Pandora and Coperni, the latter of which famously presented a runway show at Disneyland Paris, further cementing the series' commitment to exploring unique cross-industry partnerships.
Central to this new episode is the exquisite Viktor&Rolf x Disney Collector Cinderella Doll, a limited-edition offering developed in conjunction with Mattel. This collectible reinterprets the classic animated princess with a distinct couture aesthetic. First revealed during Paris Fashion Week at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the doll draws inspiration from Viktor&Rolf's Spring/Summer 2019 haute couture collection, renowned for its dramatic sculptural tulle gowns and bold, text-based designs. The doll's elaborate blue tulle dress proudly displays the phrase "I came, I saw, I left early," complemented by glass-inspired footwear and a smartphone displaying 11:59 p.m., ingeniously updating the traditional midnight motif for a contemporary audience. Joss Hastings, VP of Global Marketing at Disney Consumer Products, emphasizes that these initiatives allow them to "play" in a unique space, surprising fans and generating excitement, with the fashion collector doll representing a pivotal step in this ongoing strategy to blend iconic characters with high fashion.
This collaboration exemplifies the boundless potential when different creative worlds converge. It underscores the idea that art, in its myriad forms, can transcend boundaries and inspire new interpretations of classic tales. By embracing innovation and unexpected partnerships, we can continually refresh our understanding of beauty, fashion, and storytelling, fostering a sense of wonder and delight that resonates with audiences across generations and disciplines.
