Q&A: Kidada Jones for Disney Store - Stardoll

Photo: Getty (Disney Store President, Jim Felding, Kidada and Rashida Jones)

Celeb designer Kidada Jones recently celebrated the release of her Kidada for Disney Store collection this week. For the first designer collab for the retailer, the first daughter of Quincy Jones (and older sister to Rashida Jones) designed jewelry, accessories, apparel, and some of the cutest figurines we’ve seen: the Wish-a-Littles are mini versions of Disney princesses, and inside each Belle, Cinderella, Snow White, and Tiana Princess with a charm necklace inside to inspire girls to pursue their own dreams. The pieces are totally adorable and range from $9.50-$49.50.

ELLEgirl had the chance to chat with the designer at the launch of the collection about what makes this collection different from past ones and her favorite princesses. Check out the interview and some pieces of Kidada’s exclusive collection at Disney stores near you!

ELLEgirl: Tell us about the new collection. And—why Disney?

Kidada Jones: Why not is the question! I’ve been in love with Disney since I was really small. I started at Disney doing brand consulting, and then my friend Jim Felding calls me with the new Disney store experience, and I knew it was time for me to come aboard the Disney Store.

EG: What has been your favorite part about designing for the brand?

KJ: I would say that it’s never ending. The inspiration will never run out with Disney ever! This particular Disney experience has been so authentic and true to who I am. They really allowed me to be who I am designing purely the way I wanted to, and that has been a great experience. I had a lot of freedom to do me.

EG: Who’s your favorite Disney princess?

KJ: It changes, you know? It depends on my mood. Tiana is feisty, and she’s out there and determined—sometimes I’m in that mode. Sometimes I’m laid back and patient and in Cinderella mode. Sometimes I’m going to force my will, and that’s Jasmine mode. It just depends on the day. I love them all!

EG: What’s you favorite piece from this collection?

KJ: It’s a tie. I really love my Vinylmation a lot just because it’s a doughnut and there’s a bite on the bottom of the feet. She’s wearing jewelry and that’s iconic Disney with Mickey ears. That’s as Disney as it gets! It’s my first toy I ever made so that’s a big deal to me. The Wish-a-Littles are also the stars of the Charming Collection. I love my Wish-a-Littles!

EG: I love your “Wish a Little” long-sleeved tee. What’s your advice for teenage girls that have big dreams?

KJ: I know it sounds really cheesy because everyone says it, but I am living proof that if you hold the possible dreams in your vision, don’t make anyone get in the way! Don’t believe in “no” and don’t think it’s not possible. It sounds really cliché but I am proof. A dream can really come true.

EG: Who is your role model?

KJ: I’m very close with my family. I’m very close with my parents. A lot of people are my role models!

EG: Besides the entertainment and fashion industries, what other career path do you think you would’ve taken?

KJ: I would have to say something in health, something in the health department. It’s weird…I’m interested in alternative medicines and natural, well living.

EG: What are you working on next?

KJ: I have lots of things coming. This is the beginning of my relationship with Disney. This is the tip of the iceberg for me!