Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

Every Disney Princess has a unique way of inspiring and empowering girls, women, and indeed everyone to envision brighter futures for themselves and their communities. While Disney Princesses have historically conveyed some problematic messages and stereotypes, the company has made significant efforts to enhance the representation and messaging of these beloved characters, celebrating their diverse cultures and empowering narratives.

Disney Princesses are characterized by a wide array of distinctive personalities, each influencing their approach to challenges and their interactions with others. These iconic figures serve as inspirations to fans of all ages, making it challenging to pinpoint the very best among them. However, we at IGN have taken on the task of curating a top 10 list from the official roster of 13 Disney Princesses. We extend our apologies to the three enchanting princesses who didn't make the cut; the decision was far from easy.

Without further ado, here are IGN's top 10 Disney Princesses.

Best Disney Princesses

11 Images10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

Image: DisneyIn Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora spends most of her life in a secluded forest cottage under the care of the Three Good Fairies, Flora, Fauna, and Merryweather, who call her Briar Rose to shield her from Maleficent's curse. This curse, which would cause her to die after pricking her finger on a spinning wheel, is altered by Merryweather to a deep sleep that can be broken by true love's kiss. Despite the fairies' efforts, Aurora falls victim to the curse but is ultimately awakened by her prince. Known for her grace and beauty, Aurora's vivid imagination and dreams of the future resonate with audiences, though her reliance on true love's kiss has sparked modern critique.

9. Moana

Image: DisneyMoana, the daughter of Motunui's chief, embarks on a quest to restore the heart of the Polynesian goddess Te Fiti, chosen by the ocean itself. Her journey, driven by a blight threatening her island, leads her to enlist the help of the demigod Maui. Moana's courage and independence shine as she navigates challenges and restores balance to her world. Her story continues to inspire in Moana 2, and fans eagerly anticipate Catherine Laga'aia's portrayal in the upcoming live-action adaptation.

8. Cinderella

Image: DisneyCinderella's tale of resilience and kindness in the face of mistreatment by her stepmother and stepsisters has captivated audiences for generations. Her transformation by the Fairy Godmother and subsequent attendance at the royal ball showcase her enduring spirit. While initially perceived as passive, Cinderella's proactive request for help from her animal friends and her iconic fashion sense have cemented her status as a beloved figure. Disney's decision to change her dress color to baby blue for costumes reflects a thoughtful approach to her character's portrayal.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Image: DisneyAriel's yearning for the human world and her rebellious spirit make her a standout Disney Princess. Her collection of human artifacts and her daring rescue of Prince Eric highlight her adventurous nature. Ariel's journey to become human, despite the risks, underscores her determination and courage. Her story continues in The Little Mermaid: Return to the Sea, where she becomes the first Disney Princess to embrace motherhood.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Image: DisneyTiana's dedication to her dream of opening a restaurant in Jazz Age New Orleans embodies the spirit of hard work and perseverance. Her transformation into a frog and subsequent journey with Prince Naveen teach valuable lessons about responsibility and self-reliance. As the first African American Disney Princess, Tiana's story in The Princess and the Frog is a testament to her strength and entrepreneurial spirit.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Image: DisneyBelle's love for knowledge and her desire for a life beyond her provincial village set her apart. Her willingness to trade her freedom for her father's and her eventual love for the Beast challenge traditional princess stereotypes. Belle's character, crafted by screenwriter Linda Woolverton, represents a shift towards more empowered and intellectually curious heroines.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Image: DisneyRapunzel's 18 years in a tower under Mother Gothel's control do not dampen her spirit or creativity. Her journey to see the floating lanterns and her eventual reunion with her kingdom showcase her resourcefulness and bravery. Rapunzel's multifaceted use of her magical hair and her pursuit of personal freedom make her a beloved and empowering figure.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Image: DisneyJasmine's defiance of traditional marriage expectations and her insistence on choosing her own partner highlight her progressive views. Her role in Aladdin as a symbol of female empowerment and her status as the first West Asian Disney Princess underscore her significance in the franchise.

2. Merida (Brave)

Image: DisneyMerida's refusal to conform to societal expectations of marriage and her desire to control her own destiny make her a groundbreaking character. Her journey in Brave to mend her relationship with her mother and challenge the norms of her kingdom showcase her strength and independence. As the first single Disney Princess and a skilled archer, Merida breaks the mold of traditional princess narratives.

1. Mulan

Image: DisneyMulan's story, rooted in Chinese folklore, is one of courage and sacrifice. Her decision to disguise herself as a man to take her father's place in the army and her subsequent heroism in saving China from the Huns exemplify her bravery and determination. Mulan's recognition as a Disney Princess, despite not being born into royalty, emphasizes her role as a symbol of empowerment and breaking gender stereotypes.