Photos show how Mickey Mouse ears have changed over the years

• Mickey Mouse ear hats are some of the most iconic pieces of Disney theme-park merchandise.

• Over the years, the iconic accessory has changed to have different ears, special designs, and more.

• But they've also been pushed out of the spotlight thanks to Minnie Mouse headbands.

As long as there have been Disney theme parks, there have also been mouse-ear accessories.

The original headwear design — black felt caps with plastic ears — has become an iconic and lasting piece of Disney merchandise. Walt Disney himself wore them back in the '50s, and updated versions of the hats are still available to buy at Disney theme parks around the world today.

But there have also been some changes to the accessory over the years. Special-edition hats had their moment in the spotlight, and in recent years, Minnie Mouse headbands have become arguably more popular than the beloved Mickey design.

Here's a look at how mouse-inspired ear accessories have changed over time.

Mickey Mouse ears were created by artist Roy Williams in the 1950s. The small, circular felt caps were decorated with a front Mickey design and plastic ears on each side.

The caps quickly became a staple souvenir of Disney theme parks. Special-edition hats with metallic ears were even created for events like Disneyland's 25th anniversary in 1980.

The design had been updated by the 1990s to feature wider caps, an updated Mickey print, and ears with a more circular shape.

And customization became popular by the 2010s. Some people wore the classic caps with their names embroidered on the back, while others wore character-themed versions.

Minnie Mouse headbands also popped up around that time. These ear accessories wrapped around the head, and featured Minnie's signature bow.

The headbands became extremely popular among children, adults, and even celebrities who visited Disney theme parks.

Of course, variations of the original Mickey accessory could always be found. In 2020, there were baseball caps adorned with floppy ears and the classic Mickey print.

But Minnie Mouse ears have continued to reign supreme, partly thanks to the countless designs available.

Some Minnie Mouse ears, for example, are inspired by princesses, while others are oversized, cartoon-like, and covered in sequins.

But if you prefer Mickey Mouse caps, don't worry. Those are still available in 2023, and there are almost as many designs to choose from.

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