Every Disney Princess has a unique way of inspiring and empowering individuals to dream of better futures for themselves and those around them. Over time, Disney has made significant efforts to enhance Disney Princess representation and messaging, addressing past stereotypes and allowing these characters and their cultures to shine brightly.
Disney Princesses exhibit a diverse range of personalities, which influences how they confront challenges and support others. Each princess, from the classic to the contemporary, serves as an inspiration to fans of all ages, making the task of selecting the top 10 incredibly challenging.
Here at IGN, we've curated our top 10 Disney Princesses from the official list of 13 characters. We apologize to the three magical princesses who didn't make the cut, as the decision was tough.
So, let's dive into IGN's selection of the 10 best Disney Princesses.
Best Disney Princesses
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10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)
Image: DisneyIn Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora spends most of her life sheltered in a forest cottage by the Three Good Fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, who call her Briar Rose to shield her from Maleficent's curse. This curse, meant to kill her on her 16th birthday, is altered by Merryweather to a deep sleep, which can be broken by true love's kiss. Aurora's grace and beauty are iconic, but her vivid imagination and dreams shared with woodland creatures showcase her enchanting spirit. Critics have recently questioned the narrative of her curse being resolved only by true love's kiss.
Moana
Image: DisneyMoana, the daughter of Motunui's chief, never aspires to fall in love or be rescued. Chosen by the ocean as an infant to restore the heart of Te Fiti, she embarks on a quest as a teenager to save her island from the blight caused by Te Kā's darkness. With the help of the shapeshifting demi-god Maui, Moana restores Te Fiti, reversing the curse and saving her island. Praised for her independence, bravery, and determination, Moana's empowering journey continues in Moana 2. Auli‘i Cravalho, her voice actor, highlights Moana as a universal role model. We eagerly anticipate Catherine Laga'aia's portrayal in the upcoming live-action Moana film.
Cinderella
Image: DisneyAfter her father's death, Cinderella is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, yet she remains kind and caring, particularly towards the animals in her home. When forbidden from attending the royal ball, Cinderella's Fairy Godmother transforms her into a vision in a dazzling gown and glass slippers. Despite initial criticism for being passive, Cinderella's proactive nature shines as she orchestrates her rescue with her animal friends. Her iconic ballroom look has made her a fashion icon, and Disney's decision to change her dress color to baby blue underscores her enduring appeal.
Ariel (The Little Mermaid)
Image: DisneyAriel embodies teenage rebellion, yearning to explore the human world despite King Triton's prohibitions. Her collection of human artifacts and rescue of Prince Eric lead her to make a deal with Ursula, trading her voice for legs. Ariel's journey to defeat Ursula and marry Eric showcases her determination and courage. In The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea, Ariel becomes a mother, a unique milestone for a Disney Princess.
Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)
Image: DisneySet in Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana's dedication to her dream of opening a restaurant drives her to work tirelessly. Her transformation into a frog after kissing Prince Naveen, who is under a curse by Dr. Facilier, leads to a transformative journey. Tiana's resilience and commitment to her goals make her the first African American Disney Princess and a symbol of feminist entrepreneurship.
Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
Image: DisneyBelle's thirst for knowledge and desire for a life beyond her village set her apart. When her father is captured by the Beast, Belle bravely trades her freedom for his. Her journey to love the Beast despite his appearance breaks stereotypes, highlighting her as an intellectual and independent woman. Belle's rejection of Gaston's advances and her love for reading cement her status as a feminist icon.
Rapunzel (Tangled)
Image: DisneyRaised in isolation by Mother Gothel, who uses Rapunzel's magical hair to maintain her youth, Rapunzel seizes her chance for freedom when Flynn Rider enters her tower. Her journey to see the floating lanterns and reclaim her rightful place in the kingdom showcases her resourcefulness and creativity. Rapunzel's ability to use her hair for various purposes beyond healing makes her a beloved and empowering Disney Princess.
Jasmine (Aladdin)
Image: DisneyJasmine's progressive views on marriage and her insistence on choosing a partner based on character rather than status make her a feminist icon. Her defiance against the law mandating her to marry a prince by her next birthday, and her eventual union with Aladdin, highlight her strength and independence. As the first West Asian princess, Jasmine brings diversity to the Disney Princess lineup.
Merida (Brave)
Image: DisneyMerida's determination to control her destiny and reject traditional marriage expectations sets her apart. Her conflict with Queen Elinor over her future leads to a transformative journey involving a spell that turns her mother into a bear. Merida's archery skills and leadership in uniting the clans showcase her strength and independence, making her the first single Disney Princess from Pixar.
Mulan
Image: DisneyMulan's decision to take her father's place in the Imperial Chinese Army and her bravery in defeating the Hun army highlight her as a trailblazer. Despite not being born into royalty, Mulan's actions earn her the title of Disney Princess, symbolizing persistence, family, and honor. Her story challenges gender norms and celebrates female empowerment.
