Every Disney Princess has a unique way of inspiring girls and women—and really, everyone—to dream of better futures for themselves and their communities. Over the years, Disney has recognized and addressed past problematic messages and stereotypes, making significant strides to enhance Disney Princess representation and messaging. This evolution allows these characters and their diverse cultures to shine more brightly than ever before.
Disney Princesses boast a wide array of distinct personalities, which influences how they navigate challenges and support those around them. Yet, each Disney Princess serves as an inspiration to fans of all ages, making it quite challenging to narrow down the very best.
But after careful consideration, we've done it! Here at IGN, we've curated our top 10 Disney Princesses from the official list of 13 characters. We extend our apologies to the three enchanting (and equally amazing) Princesses who didn't make our list; it was an incredibly tough decision!
So, without further ado, here is IGN's selection of the 10 best Disney Princesses.
Best Disney Princesses
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10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)
Image: DisneyFor most of Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora resides in a forest cottage with the Three Good Fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, who call her Briar Rose to shield her from Maleficent's curse. This curse would cause Aurora to die after pricking her finger on a spinning wheel on her 16th birthday. Despite the fairies' diligent efforts, Maleficent's hypnotic influence leads Aurora to fulfill the curse, but instead of death, she falls into a deep sleep, awaiting true love's kiss to awaken her, thanks to Merryweather's blessing.
Aurora is renowned for her grace and beauty, yet it's her vibrant imagination and her dreams of the future, which she shares with her woodland friends, that truly set her apart. Critics have revisited the narrative of her curse being broken by true love's kiss, sparking discussions on empowerment and autonomy.
Moana
Image: DisneyAs the daughter of Motunui's chief, Moana never aspired to traditional princess roles like marrying a prince. Instead, chosen by the ocean as an infant, she embarks on a quest to restore the heart of the Polynesian goddess Te Fiti. As a teenager, she confronts the blight on her island caused by Te Kā's darkness. With the help of the shapeshifting demigod Maui, Moana returns the heart to Te Fiti, realizing that Te Kā is Te Fiti's corrupted form. This act restores Te Fiti and saves both the ocean and Motunui.
Moana's independence, bravery, and determination highlight her as an empowered young woman. Her voice actor, Auli‘i Cravalho, has described Moana as a universal role model. We eagerly anticipate how Catherine Laga'aia will embody Moana's spirit in the upcoming live-action film.
Cinderella
Image: DisneyAfter her father's death, Cinderella is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, yet she remains humble and compassionate, caring for the château's animals. When forbidden from attending the royal ball, the Fairy Godmother transforms her, allowing her to attend in a stunning gown and glass slippers. A single slipper left behind at the ball leads to her reunion with the Prince.
Initially viewed as passive, Cinderella shows resourcefulness by enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape. Her iconic ball gown and glass slippers have made her a fashion icon. Notably, Disney altered her dress's color to baby blue for costumes, ensuring young girls did not resemble child brides.
Ariel (The Little Mermaid)
Image: DisneyAriel epitomizes teenage rebellion, yearning to explore the human world despite her father King Triton's prohibitions. Her collection of human artifacts and rescue of Prince Eric from a shipwreck lead her to make a dangerous deal with Ursula, trading her voice for legs. With the help of Eric, Sebastian, and Flounder, Ariel overcomes Ursula's schemes and marries Eric.
In the sequel, The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea, Ariel becomes the first Disney Princess to become a mother, with her daughter Melody aspiring to live as a mermaid.
Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)
Image: DisneyIn Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana's dedication to hard work drives her dream of opening a restaurant. After kissing Prince Naveen, transformed into a frog, she embarks on a journey to reverse their curse. Tiana teaches Naveen responsibility, rejecting Dr. Facilier's tempting offer to magically fulfill her dreams.
As the first African American Disney Princess, Tiana exemplifies feminist values and entrepreneurial spirit, never wavering from her goals.
Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
Image: DisneyBelle's love for learning and desire for adventure set her apart in her provincial French village. When her father Maurice is imprisoned by the Beast, Belle trades her freedom for his, eventually breaking the curse by loving the Beast, who transforms back into a prince.
Belle challenges princess stereotypes with her intellectual pursuits and rejection of Gaston's superficial advances, making her a feminist icon.
Rapunzel (Tangled)
Image: DisneyFor 18 years, Rapunzel is confined by Mother Gothel, who uses her magical hair to maintain youth. Rapunzel's chance to see the floating lanterns on her birthday leads her to strike a deal with Flynn Rider. Her journey reveals her royal heritage and the lanterns' significance.
Rapunzel's resourcefulness and creative spirit have made her a beloved princess, using her hair for more than just healing.
Jasmine (Aladdin)
Image: DisneyJasmine challenges the patriarchal marriage laws of Agrabah, rejecting suitors based on character rather than status. Her defiance culminates in her declaration, "How dare you? All of you, standing around deciding my future? I am not a prize to be won!" She ultimately marries Aladdin after the law changes to allow her freedom of choice.
As the first West Asian princess, Jasmine represents female empowerment and diversity in Disney's lineup.
Merida (Brave)
Image: DisneyMerida refuses to marry for political gain, striving for personal freedom. Her conflict with her mother Queen Elinor over traditional roles leads to unintended consequences, but Merida's determination ultimately fosters change.
As the first single Disney Princess from a Pixar film, Merida showcases strength and independence, excelling in archery, sword fighting, and horseback riding.
Mulan
Image: DisneyMulan defies gender norms by joining the Imperial Chinese Army in her father's place. Her strategic genius and bravery in battle earn her honor and save China. Disney recognizes her as a princess for her embodiment of persistence, family values, and breaking gender stereotypes.
Mulan's story teaches the importance of challenging traditional roles and standing up for one's beliefs.
AnswerSee ResultsThere you have it! We apologize to the three Disney Princesses not included in our list, but we focused on their overall personalities and abilities. What do you think of our choices and rankings? Share your thoughts in the comments.
