A Walt Disney World Resort guest recently found herself at the center of a dress code debate after cast members stopped her for wearing what she thought was an acceptable outfit. Nicole Arena (@arenalifts on TikTok) shared her experience with thousands of viewers after being refused entry to a ride at EPCOT due to her attire. Arena was wearing only a sports bra and leggings, which led to the park employees asking her to purchase a $45 shirt before she could board the attraction.
@arenalifts Replying to @bakedpotayter I really didnt think anything of this tbh
“I really didn’t think anything of [the outfit],” Arena said. She went on to share that she felt her choice of a sports bra wasn’t an issue, especially given how common they are in gym environments. Her video, showing her in the outfit that got her stopped, quickly went viral, stirring up a range of opinions from Disney fans about what’s appropriate for the theme park.
Walt Disney World Resort’s official dress code clearly states that guests must wear proper attire, including “shoes and shirts.” While sports bras aren’t explicitly banned, some cast members may interpret them as insufficient, particularly when the guest is not wearing an additional shirt or cover-up.
Many Disney Parks fans were quick to criticize Arena for not adhering to the dress code.
“It’s a sports BRA. As in BRASSIERE,” said @lovelynhearts. “Obviously not appropriate to be wearing out in public.”
“Why would someone have to TELL you this isn’t appropriate for a family friendly environment?” @lifesmessyenjoyit commented. “How could you not come to the conclusion yourself that wearing only a bra as a top isn’t considered appropriate attire unless you’re in a gym or at your home? You knew you were just being attention seeking. Glad they enforced it.”
Despite the backlash, Arena defended her outfit choice.
@arenalifts Replying to @RealLifeChemist first time i’ve ever been told my gym fit wasnt family friendly but hey first time for everything💀💀 keep your kids away from gyms at all costs #disney #dresscode
“There were many people at Disney wearing much less clothing than I was,” Arena said. “I had nothing showing other than my stomach and my arms, but you guys are acting like I went out naked. Anyone who goes to the gym knows it’s totally fine to walk around with a sports bra and leggings on. I just went to Disney, how I would go to the gym.”
“I didn’t know that Disney has a dress code,” she continued. “That’s a whole different story. If I knew that, I would’ve thrown a t-shirt on top of it. But I didn’t know.”
Despite the backlash, some commenters defended Arena’s outfit.
“Your ‘sports bra’ was clearly not revealing at all.. I think they have to like blanket these rules for the girls that would not be modest the way you were,” said @devvland. “Ppl in the comments are annoying lol. It’s 2025, you can wear a bralette, sports bra and crop tops just about anywhere.”
“This is tame compared to most Disney outfits,” @sybillamae added. “I can’t believe you got dress coded. Disney is all tiny crop tops, mini skirts, short shorts, etc.”
Should Walt Disney World Resort allow women to wear sports bras without shirts? Share your opinion with Disney Dining in the comments!
I personally don’t see anything wrong with this outfit,I have seen some outfits that leave absolutely nothing to the imagination,but if they are comfortable getting chub rub crack on 🤣