Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

Every Disney Princess embodies a unique way of empowering individuals to envision brighter futures for themselves and others. While past portrayals occasionally included problematic stereotypes, Disney has progressively evolved its princess representation to highlight the characters' diverse cultures and strengths.

Each princess brings a distinct personality to the table, influencing how they tackle challenges and support those around them. Despite their differences, every Disney Princess inspires fans of all ages, making it challenging to single out the absolute best. Nevertheless, we’ve managed to narrow it down. At IGN, we’ve selected our top 10 Disney Princesses from the official list of 13. Please forgive us for excluding three incredible princesses—our decision wasn’t easy!

Without further ado, here’s IGN’s selection of the 10 best Disney Princesses.

Best Disney Princesses

11 Images10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

Image: DisneyFor much 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 protect her from Maleficent’s curse. The curse decrees that she will die after pricking her finger on a spinning wheel’s spindle on her 16th birthday. Despite the fairies’ efforts to keep her safe, Aurora falls victim to Maleficent’s curse and falls asleep until woken by true love’s kiss. This ending has sparked debate among critics in recent years.

Aurora remains an iconic figure known for her elegance and beauty, but she also showcases a vivid imagination, sharing her dreams with her woodland friends. Critics question the trope of requiring true love’s kiss to break the curse.

9. Moana

Image: DisneyBorn into royalty on the island of Motunui, Moana never aspired to find love with a prince. Instead, she followed the ocean’s call to restore the heart of Te Fiti, a Polynesian goddess of nature. When Te Kā, the corrupted form of Te Fiti, poisoned the ocean and her island, Moana embarked on a journey with Maui, a demigod, to return the heart and undo the damage. Through determination and ingenuity, Moana transformed Te Kā back into Te Fiti, saving her home and the ocean.

Moana’s independence, bravery, and resourcefulness have made her a beacon of empowerment for both boys and girls. Her voice actress, Auli‘i Cravalho, calls her a role model for all. We eagerly await Catherine Laga'aia’s portrayal in the upcoming live-action adaptation.

8. Cinderella

Image: DisneyAfter losing her father, Cinderella becomes a servant to her cruel stepmother and stepsisters. Despite their mistreatment, she remains kind-hearted, befriending the mice and birds in the house. When forbidden to attend the royal ball, she receives a magical makeover from her Fairy Godmother, appearing stunning in a gown and glass slippers that vanish at midnight. Using one remaining slipper, she proves her identity to the Prince, securing her happily-ever-after.

While Cinderella was initially criticized for passivity, she demonstrates resourcefulness by rallying her animal friends to help her escape confinement. Her ballroom attire became a fashion icon, and Disney even adjusted her dress color to avoid confusion.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Image: DisneyKnown for teenage rebellion, Ariel yearns to explore the human world despite her father’s warnings. Collecting human artifacts and falling in love with Prince Eric, she makes sacrifices to become human, signing away her voice to Ursula. After defeating the sea witch, she marries her beloved. In the sequel, she becomes the first Disney Princess to be a mother.

Ariel’s self-reliance and creativity have made her one of the most beloved princesses, breaking stereotypes about passive heroines.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Image: DisneyFrom Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana embodies hard work and perseverance, juggling two jobs to fulfill her father’s dream of opening a restaurant. After turning into a frog, she learns responsibility alongside Prince Naveen, rejecting shortcuts to success. Her integrity shines through as she rejects Dr. Facilier’s tempting offer.

Tiana’s story marked the debut of an African American Disney Princess, inspiring women to pursue their ambitions fearlessly.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Image: DisneyBelle prioritizes intelligence and independence over traditional romance. When her father is imprisoned by the Beast, she trades her freedom for his. Overcoming prejudice, she helps break the enchantment on the Beast and his servants, proving love conquers all.

Belle challenged princess stereotypes by valuing education and self-worth over superficial beauty, cementing her status as a feminist icon.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Image: DisneyLocked away by Mother Gothel, Rapunzel spends 18 years isolated but dreams of exploring the world. When she escapes, her resourcefulness and creativity help her overcome obstacles. Her hair proves useful beyond healing powers, aiding in climbing and lighting her path.

Rapunzel’s cleverness and courage have made her a standout princess, defying expectations set by her captor.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Image: DisneyJasmine advocates for choosing partners based on character rather than status, defying tradition by refusing suitors chosen by her father. After Aladdin frees the Genie and nullifies the marriage law, she marries the man she loves.

Jasmine represents female empowerment by challenging patriarchal norms and introducing racial diversity to Disney’s princess roster.

2. Merida (Brave)

Image: DisneyMerida rejects traditional gender roles entirely, choosing independence over marriage. Her journey involves resolving conflicts with her mother and uniting clans to embrace individual choices. As the first Pixar princess, she empowers audiences with her strength and autonomy.

1. Mulan

Image: DisneyMulan disguises herself as a man to join the army in her father’s place, showcasing bravery and strategic thinking. Her actions bring honor to her family and nation. Though not born into royalty, Mulan’s story emphasizes the importance of honor, family, and breaking free from restrictive gender norms.

Mulan’s legacy inspires countless girls worldwide, teaching them to challenge societal expectations.

Who is the best Disney Princess? --------------------------------

AuroraBelleJasmineAriel

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