What does it take to be a pioneer? From the many interviews we’ve conducted on the Create & Cultivate stage, we’ve identified four key attributes that set them apart: Bold—they step outside of their comfort zone to shift culture; Fun—they do what they love for a living; Fashionable—they bring a design eye to everything they do; Classic—their ideas transcend the era they live in.
If we were to apply these traits to one person throughout history, there’s one name that instantly comes to mind: Minnie Mouse. From the moment she stepped onto the scene, Minnie Mouse has been a style icon. With her polka dot dress and yellow heels, she has inspired generation after generation with her loveable personality and undeniable influence in the fashion and lifestyle space.
She is and always has been, positively herself, #PositivelyMinnie.
Read on to learn how you can embody Minnie’s key characteristics—Bold, Fashionable, Fun, and Classic—and inject more joy and confidence into your everyday life on the journey to being positively you.
CREATE & CULTIVATE: You’ve been a fashion icon for over 90 years—how do you stay ahead of the curve and fashionable after all this time? What is your secret?
MINNIE MOUSE: Oh, you’re so sweet! Well, I suppose my secret is that I stick to my classic look but always try to add a contemporary twist. And of course, I love to have fun with what I wear by adding a touch of something whimsical, like sequins or a fabulous bow.
You are an inspiration to all of us but we’d love to know, where do you get your style and fashion inspiration?
Oh, from so many things, like my friends and all the wonderful places I get to travel. I’ve always found that fashion is a celebration of everyone’s unique style and personality. If you’re bold and wear what makes you happy, you’ll always be stylish!
“I think it’s important to have a vision and believe in yourself.”
You’ve had an incredibly successful career—what is your best advice for someone trying to break into the fashion or entertainment industry?
Hmm… Well, I think it’s important to have a vision and believe in yourself. If your choices come from your heart, and you do your very best, you’re sure to be a success. And of course, always remember to have fun!
What do you wish you could go back and tell yourself when you were first starting out? Why?
Oh, I’ll have to think about that… Well, I’ve had the most wonderful journey and met so many amazing friends, so I guess I would tell myself to get ready for a very exciting ride!
You always seem so bold and self-assured—where do you think this confidence stems from? What advice do you have for people who are feeling self-doubt and want to have more courage?
Well, I know that my friends help me to be brave and bold. We always support and encourage each other to try new things and follow our dreams. So, I suppose I’d say that if you’re feeling doubtful, look to your friends or family.
You’ve achieved phenomenal success but that didn’t come without hard work and determination. What are some of the biggest lessons you’ve learned along the way and what have they taught you?
One of the most important things I’ve learned is that when faced with a challenge, always be positively you! Be there with a helping hand or a hug for the ones you love, don’t ever be afraid to ask questions, and take time to enjoy the wonderful world around you.
You have worn so many amazing outfits through the years—can you recall one of your favorite looks, where you wore it, and why it was so iconic?
Goodness, I’ve been so lucky to work with amazing designers like Christian Siriano, Vivian Tam, Diane von Furstenberg, Stuart Vevers, Stacey Bendet and many more. They’ve all created such pretty dresses for me. But I suppose my most iconic look is my classic polka dot dress. And you know, the classics never go out of style! Oh, and this year, I’m very excited to be working with Paige!
Fun is in your DNA—what advice do you have for people who want to inject more joy and fun into their every day from personal to professional?
Oh, just think about the things that make you happy—even if they’re little things like reading a book or listening to your favorite song, and try to do one of those each and every day. And always remember to stay positively you!
Photographer: Jenna Peffley
