Your Definitive Guide to Batuu-Bounding: Galactically Stylish Disneybounding at Galaxy’s Edge
You may already be familiar with the concept of Disneybounding – wearing everyday clothing to represent a Disney character while in a Disney Park – but if not, we’ve written extensively about the topic on the site (check it out!).
When Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge opened at Hollywood Studios (and within Disneyland),
many visitors decided to take the concept one step further. They began blending their love of Star Wars with the immersive magic of Disney Parks to create something new – batuu-bounding!
Whether you’ve heard of this unique twist on Disneybounding and are looking for a few ideas or you’re just learning about it for the first time, we’re here to break it down and get you prepared for your first off-world excursion to Batuu.
So…What in the Galaxy is Batuu-bounding?
For anyone unfamiliar with the term, “Batuu” is the fictional planet where Galaxy’s Edge, the Star Wars portion of the park, is located. It is the setting of the rides, attractions, and theming for the land. Typical Disneybounding takes an established character – classic princesses like Belle or Snow White, favorite villains like Ursula or Maleficent, and Mickey and Minnie of course! – and creates an outfit around that character.
Batuu-bounding is very similar to Disneybounding, except visitors often choose to create a look designed to resemble a citizen of Batuu. These looks can be very simple or more elaborate depending on what the wearer chooses. There’s no wrong way to Disney bound, after all!
Walt Disney World (and Disneyland for that matter) have always had strict no-costuming rules within their parks. With the immersive atmosphere of Galaxy’s Edge, they’ve relaxed some of those rules to allow Star Wars fans a chance to live out their galactic dreams.
Additionally, with the inclusion of Galactic Starcruiser (and the supposed live-action roleplaying elements Imagineers have included in the experience), we
expect to see some more dedicated costuming elements from Disney bounders.
Why Batuu-bound?
The most obvious reason for dressing up in Galaxy’s Edge is that it’s a lot of fun. If you are fashion-minded, it’s a great way to include more exciting options in your wardrobe for the day. But perhaps more importantly, Batuu-bounding offers a visual cue that you are willing to play along with the cast members and want to be involved in further world-building immersion.
Cast members in Galaxy’s Edge generally act as if they are actually on another planet, with no mention of “Star Wars” or Disney parks. They’re living Star Wars –
and dressing up means you want to live it too! (If only just for a few minutes.) As a general rule, the cast tends to interact with Batuu-bounders a little bit more.
This can be a small thing like asking about certain Star Wars-related aspects of your day or getting more involved in conversations and encounters with costumed members of the park.
You may find yourself getting interrogated by stormtroopers, hugged by Chewbacca, or stalked by Kylo Ren depending on what you wear!
Many parkgoers enjoy interacting with the cast this way, but if you’re shy, don’t worry! Usually, the cast members are pretty good at recognizing whether or not you want to play along.
Disneybounding Star Wars Characters
If you aren’t entirely convinced by Batuu-bounding, don’t let that dissuade you from Disneybounding your favorite Star Wars character! Many Batuu-bounders start with a look taken from the Star Wars films – whether it’s Rey’s iconic wrapped tabards, Han Solo’s vest, or an Imperial officer – and adapt it to modern fashion.
You’ll see no end of visitors wearing variations of these looks all over Hollywood Studios (or Disneyland if you’re visiting Batuu West, as it’s called by fans).
The most popular characters you’ll see are Rey, Kylo Ren, Han Solo, droids like R2-D2 or C-3PO, Princess Leia, and the inimitable Ahsoka Tano. Typical Disneybounding isn’t going out of style any time soon, but just remember, it isn’t the only way to play dress-up at the parks anymore!
Creating Fun Looks From A Galaxy Far, Far Away
One of the most fun aspects of Batuu-bounding is the creative freedom to take the basic concept of Galaxy’s Edge – visiting an alien planet within the Star Wars universe – and create a look that makes you feel like you’re part of the world. Picking your look can take a little bit of time – but it’s well worth the effort.
Many visitors start with the look of the cast members in Galaxy’s Edge. Unlike many other lands in Disney parks, Galaxy’s Edge gives cast members the freedom to mix-and-match their apparel from a central wardrobe department with common elements: color options, styles, and fabrics.
The looks are largely unisex, giving the denizens of Batuu a loosely styled but distinctive look. Earth-toned fabrics, multiple layers, and the use of leather and canvas accessories are staples of Batuu fashion.
For someone tempted to the Dark Side, there are always Imperial officers for inspiration. You can purchase First Order hats on theme park property, as well as some appropriate jackets and other apparel. There are also Sith options: by swapping the color palette from blues, grays, and browns to blacks and reds, you can create a look that will go perfectly with your new red lightsaber or shiny Sith Holocron.
Don’t Break The Jedi Code
While Disney has relaxed a lot of its costuming rules with the opening of Galaxy’s Edge (a big win for enthusiastic Star Wars fans who love dressing up or actively engaging in cosplay), there are still some restrictions on what you’re allowed to wear inside the parks. It’s important to keep these in mind when you’re developing your look.
It should be noted that some of these restrictions depend entirely on what security will or will not allow on that day. It’s important to note that this is entirely at the discretion of park officials. While some people may be able to skirt these rules, we recommend playing it safe so you don’t get turned away at the gate and have to change.
Here’s what you should avoid:
• Cloaks and Robes. Unless it is a separately ticketed event (like Not-So-Scary Halloween or one of the Star Wars events), long cloaks are not allowed in the parks. Specifically, no floor-length cloaks (or dresses). If you choose to wear a cloak, it can be no longer than waist-length, which means you can occasionally get away with a capelet. Given Disney World’s sunny locale, you may want to consider whether or not you want to wear cold-weather attire at all.
• Wigs. Star Wars characters often have elaborate hairstyles with interesting colors. Because Disney doesn’t want fully-costumed characters, they do not allow character wigs for Star Wars characters any more than they do for Disney Princesses. There are exceptions to this rule. If you wear a wig daily or have a wig that looks very similar to natural hair, you won’t be turned away. We know that some bounders report they have worn wigs without issue into the parks (especially on Dapper Day) but be prepared to risk being asked to change if you do.
• Realistic Costume Pieces. You won’t be able to visit Batuu wearing a full TIE fighter pilot outfit, Stormtrooper uniforms, or Mandalorian armor. You cannot dress as an Imperial officer or wear one of Padme’s iconic dresses. You can, however, incorporate small elements of these things into your outfit. Imperial officer hats, Jedi belts, and flowy dresses are common choices for Disney bounders to help their outfits pop.
• Helmets and Headpieces. As cool as that Mandalorian helmet is, you cannot walk around the park in yours. No full-face coverings are allowed in Disney World or Disneyland. This rule extends to all events, even Halloween, as you cannot hide your entire face at any time in the park.
• Weapons (That Aren’t Lightsabers). No blasters, bladed weapons (even plastic or otherwise fake ones), or any other weapons are allowed in Disney Parks. Given that Galaxy’s Edge sells lightsabers, these are the obvious exception. You’ll find many visitors taking photos with their Saavi’s lightsaber across Galaxy’s Edge, and you’re encouraged to do so! You can bring any lightsaber into the park, even if you didn’t purchase it through Disney.
As a reminder, Disney’s costuming rules are designed around the fact that they do not want parkgoers mistaken for official Disney cast members. You cannot take photos with other guests, pretend to be employed by Disney, or otherwise further any idea that you are there in an official capacity. If you do, you will be asked to leave the park.
Before you go, read Disney’s official dress code for their parks.
Force-Inspired Ideas for Your Batuu-bound!
Ready to create your look? Here are some of our ideas and tips for building your own Star Wars style to wear at Galaxy’s Edge.
Earth Tone Colors.
Since Batuu is designed as a desert world (and the lack of shade drives that home), wearing a lot of beige, browns, and grays is very popular. Pairing these earth tones with a pop of color – like blues, reds, and purples – makes your outfit stand out just a little bit more.
Blacks and Reds.
For those of you on the Dark Side, you might want to consider swapping to a darker color palette. Blacks and reds are a good choice for any Sith or Imperial. Instead of the flowy or earthy looks, you might want to consider more fitted apparel with sharper lines and an overall more tailored look.
Loose, Textured Garments.
If you look at Star Wars characters, you’ll find many of them dress in long, loose attire. You see a lot of draping fabrics belted to give the outfit shape. (Think of Obi-Wan and Anakin’s belted robes in The Clone Wars.) The texture is also important, whether it’s a woven fabric or just adding some ribbing or pleats to an otherwise ordinary shirt. Star Wars fashion loves pleats (we are looking at you Kylo Ren!).
Linen Shirts.
Linen – or linen-like – fabrics are a great choice to combat the Florida heat. It gives texture without adding a lot of warmth. It’s an especially good choice for guys who want to dress like their favorite, scruffy smuggler while still being comfortable as they ride Star Tours for the third time.
Vests.
Speaking of smugglers, everyone loves a good vest! They add more layers to your look without adding a lot of bulk or making you overheat. They’re a great way to accessorize your outfit without spending a lot of money.
Moto Leggings/Pants.
Moto-style clothing overall adds a lot of texture to your apparel. You’ll see the basic ribbing and paneled garments that will fit right in with the look of Batuu.
Scarves.
An excellent accessory for any Star Wars style, scarves deserve their own mention. One of the easiest ways to add layers to an outfit is to add a scarf! You’ll see lots of cast members wearing them in various ways. They’re easy to style in multiple ways, adding an accent color while providing head and neck covering if you start to overheat.
Add Some Aurebesh.
Aurebesh is the alien language in the Star Wars Universe. You can see it written everywhere in Galaxy’s Edge, from signposts to clothing, and even graffiti in that section of the park! You don’t need to know Aurebesh to enjoy Galaxy’s Edge. It’s just a nice bit of detailed flair for your look! Some people add Aurebesh writing on their bags or other accessories. If you want to take the time to learn the alphabet, you can write your favorite Star Wars quote, the name of your favorite character, or whatever reference you’d like!
Multiple Layers.
One hallmark of Star Wars costuming is layers. Many characters have looks that are more elaborate than what you want to go for in the park – and that’s okay! Start with a simple tunic and leggings, then pair it with a long, open, sleeveless cardigan belted at the waist. You’ve got a whole look with just a little bit of effort!
However, we’re going to caution you to remember the Florida weather during your trip. Yes, that brown leather jacket with the perfect ribbed shoulders looks amazing. But how are you going to feel wearing it outside when it’s 90 degrees??
Accessorize.
One of the best ways to make any Disneybound shine is to accessorize! For a princess Disney bound, this can be adding some jewelry or an appropriate handbag. For Galaxy’s Edge, you may want to add a wide leather (or faux leather) or obi-style belt, some statement jewelry, boot spats, or arm cuffs to your look. Small shoulder or hip bags are popular choices as well. They also double as extra storage for a full park day!
Some dedicated fans go another step further to add extra “greeblies” to their Disney bound. These are small (usually plastic or resin) nametags, rank buttons, or otherwise bits and bobbles that are attached to clothing and bags to make a more authentic look. Usually, you can grab these on Etsy (see below!).
Other Ideas:
Most Star Wars fashion has a distinctive look. Here are a few other elements that might inspire you:
• Mandarin Collars
• Cowl Necks
• Jedi tabards
• Ankle or Knee Boots
• Full-length Rompers
The best part of Disneybounding is that you can spend as little or as much time and money on your concept as you’d like. There’s no wrong way to Disneybound!! Go as simple or elaborate as you’d like – the important thing is to feel comfortable and have fun!
Where to Shop for Brilliant Batuu Looks
• Amazon. The first place to look for easy, inexpensive outfit pieces that will help you pull together a look. You may have to search around a little to find exactly what you’re looking for – but you can find just about anything on Amazon!
• Etsy. Etsy has a great selection of batuu-related clothing, jewelry, and other accessories. If nothing else, it’s a great place to look for custom Star Wars merch!
• Elhoffer Designs. An indie designer that makes high-quality knitwear for Disney bounding. They usually have several “galactic” styles available. These are all small-batch designs, so once it sells out, the style is gone for good.
• Goldbubble. A small business that specializes in geeky stretch fabrics, Goldbubble has a great selection of Star Wars-inspired leggings, tops, and skirts. They’re comfortable and breathable for long theme park days.
• Her Universe. Marketed as “fashion for fangirls,” Her Universe has pieces for everyone. While most of their apparel is suited for everyday wear, they often have pieces designed specifically for Disneybounding.
• ShopDisney. While there are tons of clothing options inside the parks, you can find a surprising number of them online as well! Disney offers a few pieces that are perfect for Disneybounding. But as a reminder – even if you buy that Jedi cloak from them directly, you still can’t wear it in the park!
What about the Galactic Starcruiser?
While we haven’t been able to visit Disney’s newest immersive experience, The Galactic Starcruiser, it’s sure to change the game for Disneybounding – and costuming – entirely! Once the experience opens, we’ll know more about what to expect on board, and we’ll keep you up to date!
So what you do think? Are you planning your next Batuu citizen attire? Or would you rather dress as your favorite rebel princess or Sith Lord? Let us know in the comments – and share your Disneybounding creations with us online!
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