Retro revelers took over Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the Magic Kingdom and Epcot during Dapper Day last April. The step-out-in-style soirée included craft cocktails and mingling with other vintage aficionados at the steam punk-themed restaurant The Edison, located at Disney Springs, the Charles Phoenix Retro Disneyland Slide Show, traipsing around the theme parks and shopping galore during the Dapper Day Boutique at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa’s convention center.

I attended Dapper Day at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa last April.

My husband Dan is striking a pose during Dapper Day!
I enjoyed seeing dashing gents and gorgeous gals dressed to the nines during Dapper Day. I have been wearing vintage clothing since the 1980s, so I’m extremely pleased that others are carrying the torch and keeping the vintage spirit alive!

Josh Ramsey and Judy Pop are wearing their stylish vintage attire during Dapper Day!

She’s looking vintage posh!

This cute couple is wearing matching Orange Bird couture outfits!
The boutique featured vintage clothing by Orlando Vintage Clothing and Costume, Retromended, Charles Phoenix for Couture for Every Body by Pinup Girl Clothing and other fabulous vendors.

Charles Phoenix for Couture for Every Body by Pinup Girl Clothing.

Charles Phoenix for Couture for Every Body by Pinup Girl Clothing.

A Dapper Day attendee is browsing at the boutique.

A vintage dress paired with a beaded sweater and antique jewelry is on display at the Dapper Day boutique.
Charles Phoenix, the ambassador of Americana, was the main attraction during last spring’s Dapper Day. Phoenix presented a vintage Kodachrome slide show on the big screen, featuring folks who visited Disneyland during the 1950s and ’60s. The slide show also featured legendary, long-gone Disneyland attractions, including the Monsanto House of the Future, Skyway, Skull Rock, Rainbow Caverns, Flying Saucers and The Carousel of Progress. Besides the spectacular slides, Phoenix’s hilarious commentary and backstories are what make his laugh-out-loud slide shows even more special. I know!

Tomorrowland and the Monsanto House of the Future.

A Disneyland slide, featuring Mickey and Minnie Mouse, one of The Three Little Pigs, an employee and child.

Disneyland’s Skyway.

I’m hanging out with Charles Phoenix during Dapper Day!

The classic and iconic Disneyland sign!
Disneyland holds a special place in Phoenix’s heart.
“I’m a child of Disneyland and an enthusiast,” said Phoenix. “It’s the only place that I go with my family and it’s the greatest time. Thank you Walt Disney for making your great magic a part of our lives.”
Phoenix was also selling and autographing his latest book, “Addicted to Americana.” The book celebrates classic and kitschy American life and style. The book retails for $29.95 and includes his autograph. Bonus! Phoenix’s book is a treasure trove of information, which includes roadside attractions, classic cars and space-age style that he has encountered during road trips. Add this must-have book to your holiday gift list! You will be delighted and learn about a plethora of places before you plan your next trip!

“Addicted to Americana” by Charles Phoenix.
This was the third time I have seen and experienced Phoenix’s slide show. He didn’t disappoint and was a real hoot! He also has slide shows, tours and other exciting events listed on his website throughout the year.
I’m a native Orlandoan, so visiting Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom as a child with my family was always an adventure! My parents bought my brother Vernon and I Mickey and Minnie Mouse dolls, hats and frisbees during our first visit to the Magic Kingdom in fall 1973 (Note: The photos are dated Jan. 1974 because my parents developed the Kodak 110 camera film after the holidays). My parents took photos of us with our souvenirs after we got home from the Magic Kingdom. Vernon and I still have those memorable keepsakes!

My brother Vernon and I are posing with our Magic Kingdom souvenirs.

My brother Vernon and I are posing with your Magic Kingdom souvenirs in front of our dad’s Chevrolet Chevelle.
Dapper Day’s fall excursion is happening Nov. 16-18, 2018. The fun festivities will include an evening at Paddlefish, located at Disney Springs on Friday, Nov. 16, taking a walk on the wild side at Disney’s Animal Kingdom from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. and reliving your childhood at the Magic Kingdom from 3 p.m. until close on Saturday, Nov. 17 and drinking around the world at Epcot on Sunday, Nov. 18.
Experience Disney while looking dapper every fall and spring! Learn more by visiting Dapper Day’s website.

Dapper Day fall 2018.