Every Disney Princess has a unique way of inspiring and empowering individuals to dream of brighter futures for themselves and those around them. While Disney has faced criticism for past portrayals, the company has made significant efforts to enhance Disney Princess representation and messaging, allowing these characters and their diverse cultures to shine more brightly.
Disney Princesses exhibit a broad spectrum of personalities, influencing their approach to challenges and their interactions with others. Each princess serves as an inspiration to fans of all ages, making the task of selecting the top Disney Princesses quite challenging.
However, we've managed to compile our list here at IGN. From the official roster of 13 characters, we've chosen our top 10 Disney Princesses. We apologize to the three incredible princesses who didn't make the cut, as the decision was incredibly tough!
Without further ado, here is IGN's ranking of the 10 best Disney Princesses.
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10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)
Image: DisneyFor most of Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora lives 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. Despite their efforts, Aurora returns to her castle and falls under Maleficent's spell, pricking her finger on a spinning wheel and falling into a deep sleep. However, thanks to Merryweather's blessing, she awakens with true love's kiss.
Aurora is celebrated for her grace and beauty, but her imaginative spirit and dreams shared with woodland creatures are equally noteworthy. Yet, her reliance on true love's kiss to break the curse has sparked modern critique.
Image: DisneyAs the daughter of Motunui's chief, Moana never aspired to be saved by a prince. Chosen by the ocean as an infant, she embarks on a quest as a teenager to restore the heart of the goddess Te Fiti, which Maui, the shapeshifting demi-god, stole centuries ago. Moana's journey reveals that Te Kā is Te Fiti's corrupted form, and by returning the heart, she restores Te Fiti and saves her island.
Moana is admired for her independence, courage, and determination, traits that make her an empowering figure for all, as noted by her voice actress, Auli‘i Cravalho. We look forward to seeing Catherine Laga'aia embody Moana's spirit in the upcoming live-action adaptation.
Image: DisneyDespite enduring mistreatment from her stepmother and stepsisters, Cinderella remains kind-hearted and caring, especially towards the animals in her château. When forbidden from attending the royal ball, the Fairy Godmother transforms her into a dazzling vision, complete with a ballgown and glass slippers. Cinderella's resourcefulness shines when she uses her remaining slipper to prove her identity to the Prince.
Though initially criticized for passivity, Cinderella's proactive approach in enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape demonstrates her agency. Her iconic look has also cemented her status as a fashion icon, and Disney's decision to change her dress color to baby blue for costumes reflects a thoughtful consideration for young audiences.
Image: DisneyAriel embodies youthful rebellion, yearning for the human world. Despite King Triton's rules, she collects human artifacts and rescues Prince Eric, ultimately trading her voice to Ursula for legs. Her journey leads to a battle against Ursula, with the help of Eric, Sebastian, and Flounder, culminating in her marriage to Eric.
In the sequel, Ariel becomes a mother to Melody, making her the only Disney Princess to embrace motherhood on screen.
Image: DisneySet in Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana embodies hard work and determination, striving to open her restaurant. Her life takes a magical turn when she kisses Prince Naveen and turns into a frog. Their adventure teaches Naveen responsibility and culminates in Tiana rejecting Dr. Facilier's corrupt offer, showcasing her integrity.
Tiana marks Disney's first African American Princess and is celebrated as a feminist icon and businesswoman.
Image: DisneyBelle's thirst for knowledge and desire for a life beyond her provincial village set her apart. She exchanges her freedom for her father's, gradually falling in love with the Beast. Her love breaks the curse, restoring the Beast and his castle.
Belle challenges traditional princess stereotypes with her intellectual pursuits and rejection of Gaston's superficial advances, earning her a place as a feminist icon.
Image: DisneyRaised in seclusion by Mother Gothel, Rapunzel escapes her tower with Flynn Rider to see the floating lanterns on her birthday. Her journey reveals her true heritage and the power of her magical hair.
Rapunzel's ingenuity and resourcefulness have made her one of the most beloved modern Disney Princesses, showcasing her ability to overcome adversity.
Image: DisneyJasmine challenges traditional marriage norms, seeking a partner based on character rather than status. Her defiance against arranged marriage and advocacy for personal choice are hallmarks of her character.
As the first West Asian princess, Jasmine adds diversity to the Disney lineup and stands as a symbol of female empowerment.
Image: DisneyMerida's refusal to marry and her desire to control her destiny clash with her mother's expectations. Her journey involves transforming her mother into a bear and eventually reconciling, teaching the importance of personal choice.
Merida, the first Pixar princess, breaks the mold by remaining single and showcasing her skills in archery, sword fighting, and horseback riding.
Image: DisneyMulan defies gender norms by joining the Imperial Chinese Army to save her father. Her strategic mind and bravery lead to victory against the Huns, earning her a place as a Disney Princess despite not being born into royalty.
Mulan's story is a powerful lesson in perseverance, family honor, and challenging societal expectations.
AnswerSee ResultsWe hope you enjoyed our list! We regret that three princesses didn't make the cut, but our focus was on their overall personalities and abilities. What are your thoughts on our selections and rankings? Share your opinions in the comments.
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