Remembering Disney Legend Alice Estes Davis
On Thursday, November 3, the Disney community lost one of its most cherished creative icons. Alice Estes Davis, Disney Legend and pioneering costume designer for Imagineering, passed away at the age of 93. Her work left an indelible mark on beloved attractions like it’s a small world and Pirates of the Caribbean.
A gifted artist with a vibrant spirit and quick wit, Alice played a vital role in shaping the magic guests still experience at Disney Parks around the world. Married to Disney Legend Marc Davis, she often joked, “I went from sweet little children to dirty old men overnight,” referencing her transition from designing for it’s a small world to Pirates.
Alice Davis was named a Disney Legend in 2004.
A Life Woven in Creativity
Born in 1929 in Escalon, California. Alice showed artistic promise early, winning a citywide painting contest at just five years old. Her lifelong passion for art was nurtured by her mother, who saved up to take Alice to see Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs. It was on her eighth birthday—a moment that would inspire her creative journey.
In 1947, she earned a scholarship to the prestigious Chouinard Art Institute, where she met her future husband, Marc Davis. Though initially barred from taking animation courses because she was a woman, Alice channeled her talent into costume design and quickly excelled. Her skills eventually led to work in the fashion industry, where she became known for her precise pattern-making and fabric expertise.
From Lingerie to the Land of Disney
Alice’s career with Disney began when Marc asked her to create a live-action reference costume for Sleeping Beauty. That job led to more costume work, and in 1962, she officially joined WED Enterprises, now known as Walt Disney Imagineering.
Walt Disney himself saw Alice’s potential early. She recalled meeting him at the Tam O’Shanter restaurant: “He started to walk away, then turned and said, ‘You know, you’re going to work for me someday.'” And she did.
Crafting Iconic Disney Attractions
For the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair. Alice was tapped to bring Mary Blair’s whimsical designs to life through the costumes of over 150 it’s a small world children. Her collaboration with Blair, whom she called “one of my idols,” led to a dazzling array of international outfits that continue to charm guests to this day.
She later created the pirate costumes for Pirates of the Caribbean, translating Marc’s original concept art into three-dimensional, textile-rich ensembles. Alice approached her work with more than artistic vision—she built production pipelines, established quality standards, and implemented character refurbishment processes that continue to guide Imagineering today.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Magic
Alice remained active with Disney long after Marc’s passing in 2000. She regularly participated in events, mentored young artists, and inspired future generations of Imagineers. She was named a Disney Legend in 2004, and in 2012, she was honored with a window on Main Street, right beside Marc’s.
Her window reads: Small World Costume Co. / Alice Davis / Seamstress to the Stars.
Final Thoughts from SamsDisneyDiary
Alice Estes Davis wasn’t just a Disney Legend in name—she was the very definition of one. Her artistry brought color, texture, and authenticity to the characters we love. Her passion and perseverance paved the way for women in the fields of Imagineering and animation. And her warmth, humor, and humility made her unforgettable to all who met her.
In her own words: “Good friends are the jewelry of your heart. They’re your riches.” By that measure, Alice was one of the richest people in the world.
Her legacy lives on in every swirling skirt. It’s a small world. Every feathered hat in Pirates of the Caribbean, and every Imagineer who dares to dream big.
Thank you, Alice.
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