“This is just the first of many announcements to come from this collab with Disney,” shared Bahamian fashion designer Theodore Elyett. It’s big news! Elyett will be designing for all of the VIP cast: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy & Pluto. Thus far he’s only released the designs for Mickey and Minnie, but he had lots to share with
SO.

“Having the opportunity to work with Disney for the opening of its new Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point in Eleuthera is special to me for many reasons…

Eleuthera is where both sides of my family originate from. I reside in the capital, which is Nassau, New Providence, but my roots are in Eleuthera. Being able to infuse the aesthetic of Theodore Elyett with the beauty of Bahamian culture, with nods to the beauty of the island of Eleuthera, has been a beautiful and fulfilling experience for me as a fashion designer.

“This project is also special to me because I get to showcase a rich aspect of Bahamian culture, which I love very much: Junkanoo.

“Junkanoo is the rhythm of the islands; bold colour, print, texture and detailing. Being inspired by such a culturally rich parade for the looks that I’ve designed for Mickey, Minnie and their pals is a move to once again put The Bahamas on the map while pushing the envelope of the arts in the country.

“As a kid my parents saved for my siblings and I to visit Disney World. Imagine experiencing the magic of Disney as a kid, and then being a part of the magic of Disney as an adult; operating in your God-given gifting. That’s a blessing. It’s a full-circle moment and the gravity of it is not lost on me. I’m truly grateful to God for continually opening these doors of opportunity for me.

“People ask, from time to time, for inspiring words for others looking to get into the industry. My words of encouragement for anyone looking to live life full, no matter what industry: Put in the work! You can be gifted, anyone can be gifted, but if you don’t wake up every day and put the conscious effort to put in the work, even on the days you don’t feel like doing so, you’ll never reap the results you aspire to achieve.

“A part of putting in the work, for me, was participating in
Mission Catwalk in Jamaica. That experience changed my life as a designer and helped me to hone the voice of my brand. I learnt so many new skills from our mentor, the late Kay Devitian, and being able to have Caribbean exposure was a tremendous networking opportunity for me.

“Mission Catwalk created a second home for me in Jamaica and I’ll forever call its organisers and team members family. The contribution made to my life, even though it came with hard critiques sometimes, has left an indelible mark and a beautiful long-lasting relationship that I treasure.

“The fruits of what I have been working on with Disney will all be unveiled on, or before, June 2024 and I am thrilled for everyone here in The Bahamas, my second home in Jamaica, and the world to see what Theodore Elyett has to offer.”