Every Disney Princess has a unique way of inspiring and empowering audiences to dream of better futures for themselves and those around them. While some earlier Disney Princesses carried problematic messages and stereotypes, Disney has made significant efforts to enhance Disney Princess representation and the narratives surrounding these beloved characters, celebrating their diverse cultures and stories.
Each Disney Princess showcases a distinct personality, influencing how they navigate challenges and support others. These traits make them role models for fans of all ages, making it challenging to select the very best among them.
Here at IGN, we've crafted our top 10 list from the official roster of 13 Disney Princesses. We apologize to the three enchanting Princesses who didn't make the cut, as the selection was incredibly tough!
Without further delay, here's IGN's ranking of the 10 best Disney Princesses.
Best Disney Princesses
11 Images
10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)
Image: DisneyIn Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora spends most of her life in a secluded forest cottage, raised by the Three Good Fairies—Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather—as Briar Rose to shield her from Maleficent's curse. The curse, which would cause her death upon pricking her finger on a spinning wheel, is altered by Merryweather to a deep sleep that can only be broken by true love's kiss. Despite the fairies' protective measures, Aurora falls victim to the curse when Maleficent hypnotizes her at the castle. Known for her grace and beauty, Aurora also embodies a vivid imagination, dreaming of her future and sharing those dreams with her woodland companions. However, the narrative of her needing a prince's kiss to break the curse has drawn scrutiny in recent years.
Moana
Image: DisneyIn Moana, the daughter of Motunui's chief, Moana defies traditional princess tropes by embarking on a quest to restore the heart of Te Fiti, a Polynesian goddess of nature. Chosen by the ocean as an infant, Moana takes up the challenge as a teenager to save her island from a blight caused by Te Kā's darkness. She recruits the demigod Maui, who had originally stolen the heart, to aid her in returning it. Moana's realization that Te Kā is the corrupted form of Te Fiti leads to the goddess's restoration, saving both the ocean and her home. Moana's independence, courage, and determination make her an empowering figure for audiences, as noted by her voice actress Auli‘i Cravalho. We look forward to seeing how Catherine Laga'aia brings Moana to life in the upcoming live-action film.
Cinderella
Image: DisneyAfter losing her father, Cinderella is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, yet she remains kind and humble. Despite being forbidden from attending the royal ball, Cinderella's fortunes change when her Fairy Godmother transforms her into a stunning vision for the event. Her glass slipper, left behind at the ball, leads to her recognition by the Prince. Though initially seen as passive, Cinderella shows agency by enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape, and her iconic ball gown and slippers have made her a fashion icon. Notably, Disney altered her dress color from silver to baby blue for costumes to avoid bridal connotations.
Ariel (The Little Mermaid)
Image: DisneyAriel's longing to explore the human world leads her to collect human artifacts and ultimately rescue Prince Eric. Her determination to be with Eric drives her to make a deal with Ursula, trading her voice for legs, though this nearly leads to her downfall. Ariel's journey teaches her the value of responsibility and love, culminating in her marriage to Eric and later, in the sequel, becoming a mother to Melody. Ariel's story resonates as a tale of teenage rebellion and the pursuit of dreams.
Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)
Image: DisneySet in Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana's dedication to her dream of opening a restaurant reflects her strong work ethic and resilience. Her life takes a magical turn when she is transformed into a frog after kissing Prince Naveen. Their journey back to humanity teaches Naveen responsibility and leads Tiana to reject a Faustian bargain with Dr. Facilier. Tiana, the first African American Disney Princess, embodies feminist values and entrepreneurial spirit.
Belle (Beauty and the Beast)
Image: DisneyBelle, a book-loving and independent young woman, seeks more than her provincial life offers. Her journey begins when she trades places with her father, Maurice, imprisoned by the Beast. As she learns about the curse that transformed the Beast and his servants, Belle's compassion and love ultimately break the spell. Her preference for knowledge over romance and her rejection of Gaston's advances position Belle as a feminist icon, challenging traditional princess stereotypes.
Rapunzel (Tangled)
Image: DisneyRaised in isolation by Mother Gothel, who exploits Rapunzel's magical hair for eternal youth, Rapunzel seizes her chance for freedom with the help of Flynn Rider. Her journey to see the floating lanterns leads to self-discovery and empowerment. Rapunzel's resourcefulness and creativity, using her hair for various purposes beyond healing, make her a beloved and inspiring Disney Princess.
Jasmine (Aladdin)
Image: DisneyJasmine's progressive views on marriage and her insistence on choosing her partner based on character rather than status challenge the norms of her time. Her defiance against arranged marriage and her declaration of autonomy resonate strongly with audiences. As the first West Asian princess, Jasmine introduces racial diversity and symbolizes female empowerment in the Disney Princess lineup.
Merida (Brave)
Image: DisneyMerida's desire to control her own destiny leads her to reject traditional expectations of marriage. Her conflict with her mother, Queen Elinor, over these expectations results in a transformative journey involving magic and reconciliation. Merida, the first single Disney Princess and the first from Pixar, embodies independence and strength, excelling in archery, sword fighting, and horseback riding.
Mulan
Image: DisneyMulan's story, rooted in Chinese folklore, showcases her courage and ingenuity as she disguises herself as a man to take her father's place in the army. Her strategic mind and bravery save China from the Hun invasion, earning her the title of princess despite not being born into royalty or marrying a royal. Mulan's tale is a powerful testament to persistence, family honor, and breaking free from gender constraints.
