DisneyBound founder creates themed fitness outfits for runDisney

A year ago, I told you all about a hot new trend — DisneyBound — that allows fans to dress up like their favorite Disney characters without necessarily wearing costumes. Now, runDisney has recognized the popularity of the trend and partnered with its founder, Leslie Kay, to create outfits for its running events. Could planning a themed running look be any simpler?

The term ‘DisneyBound’ took root when blogger Kay started a Tumblr page to showcase the Disney-inspired outfits she put together. It’s a place, she says, “where fashion geeks and Disney nerds collide.” Kay, a self-professed fashionista and Disney fan, searches for just the right clothes and accessories to create a character look. Then, artist Phillip Light creates an illustration for her website, and links to online stores are added so admirers can purchase the clothes for the looks they love.

Disney fans have wholeheartedly embraced the concept, and many can be seen sporting their looks in the Walt Disney World parks each day here in Orlando and at other Disney parks worldwide.

But Kay has taken on a new challenge with coordinating athletic outfits for runDisney. On her runDisney blog, Kay says, ‘It’s safe to say running wasn’t always my go-to activity. “¦ However, over the years, I’ve grown to love the daily challenge running presents. “¦ There are a few beliefs when it comes to running that I haven’t outgrown. For instance, your running outfit should be one that inspires you to stay active. The more confident you feel in your activewear, the more you will push yourself to achieve your goals. I also still like to believe in the childlike ideal that a brand new pair of sneakers (especially the ones that blink and light up) will make you run faster.’

For today’s final Expedition Everest Challenge, Kay put together a look for runners who want to pay homage to the Yeti. The simple pieces are from Champion and New Balance, which are runDisney partners, and yet the finished result is true to character.

Kay also has given us fitness looks that channel Mickey Mouse, Dumbo, the Aliens from ‘Toy Story’ and Elsa and Anna from ‘Frozen.’ In a video on her blog, she advises runners that putting together the Mickey Mouse look can be very simple, and many people already have what they need in their closets: a black shirt, red shorts and yellow socks.

DisneyBound isn’t all about spending the big bucks on an extravagant outfit, Kay says. “DisneyBound is meant to be inspiration for you to pull together your own outfits which work for your body and wallet, whether from your closet or local mall,” she writes on her Tumblr page.

I think my favorite runDisney DisneyBound look, however, is that of Olaf. It’s simple, and could be adapted by guys or gals. Perfect for the #CoolestSummerEver!

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