Top 10 Disney Princesses Ranked

Every Disney Princess has a unique way of inspiring and empowering individuals to envision brighter futures for themselves and those around them. While Disney Princesses have faced criticism for past problematic messages and stereotypes, the company has made significant efforts to enhance Disney Princess representation and messaging, allowing these characters and their diverse cultures to shine through.

Each Disney Princess brings a distinct personality to the table, influencing how they navigate challenges and support others. These beloved characters inspire fans of all ages, making it challenging to select the very best among them. However, we at IGN have managed to compile our top 10 Disney Princesses from the official list of 13. We apologize to the three magical 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.

Best Disney Princesses

11 Images10. Aurora (Sleeping Beauty)

Image: DisneyIn Sleeping Beauty, Princess Aurora spends most of her life 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. This curse, which would cause her to die after pricking her finger on a spinning wheel on her 16th birthday, 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.

Aurora is celebrated for her grace and beauty, yet her true strength lies in her vivid imagination and dreams of the future, which she shares with her woodland friends. However, her reliance on true love's kiss to break the curse has been a point of contention among modern critics.

9. Moana

Image: DisneyMoana, the daughter of Motunui's chief, defies traditional princess narratives by not seeking a prince or needing rescue. Chosen by the ocean as an infant, she embarks on a quest as a teenager to restore the heart of the Polynesian goddess Te Fiti, which was stolen by the demi-god Maui. Moana's journey involves confronting Te Kā, the corrupted form of Te Fiti, and restoring balance to her island.

Moana's independence, bravery, and determination make her a powerful symbol of empowerment. Her voice actor, Auli‘i Cravalho, has praised Moana as a role model for everyone. We look forward to seeing how Catherine Laga'aia embodies Moana's spirit in the upcoming live-action film.

8. Cinderella

Image: DisneyAfter her father's death, Cinderella is mistreated by her stepmother and stepsisters, yet she remains kind and humble. When denied the chance to attend the royal ball, the Fairy Godmother transforms her into a vision of elegance, complete with a stunning ballgown and glass slippers. Cinderella's resourcefulness shines when she uses her remaining slipper to prove her identity to the Prince.

While initially seen as passive, Cinderella's proactive approach in enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape showcases her agency. Her iconic style has made her a fashion icon, and Disney's decision to change her dress color to baby blue for costumes reflects a thoughtful approach to representation.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Image: DisneyAriel embodies teenage rebellion, yearning for the human world and collecting treasures from it. Her love for Prince Eric leads her to make a deal with Ursula, trading her voice for legs. Despite the risks, Ariel's determination and courage help her defeat Ursula and marry Eric.

In the sequel, Ariel becomes the first Disney Princess to become a mother, giving birth to Melody. Her story continues to resonate with audiences, highlighting her adventurous spirit and willingness to challenge norms.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Image: DisneyTiana, set in Jazz Age New Orleans, embodies hard work and determination. Her dream of opening a restaurant drives her to hold down multiple jobs. After turning into a frog due to a curse, Tiana's journey with Prince Naveen teaches him responsibility and leads to her rejecting a shortcut to her dreams offered by Dr. Facilier.

As the first African American Disney Princess, Tiana's story in The Princess and the Frog celebrates her as a feminist businesswoman who never compromises on her goals.

5. Belle (Beauty and the Beast)

Image: DisneyBelle, an intellectual and independent young woman, yearns for more than her provincial life. She trades her freedom for her father's, living with the Beast in his enchanted castle. As she learns about the curse, Belle's compassion and love transform the Beast, breaking the spell.

Belle's preference for knowledge over romance challenges traditional princess stereotypes, making her a feminist icon. Her screenwriter, Linda Woolverton, crafted a character who values her mind and rejects superficial suitors like Gaston.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Image: DisneyRapunzel, kept in a tower by Mother Gothel to exploit her magical hair, seizes her chance for freedom when Flynn Rider enters her life. Her journey to see the floating lanterns leads to self-discovery and the realization of her royal heritage.

Rapunzel's resourcefulness and creativity have made her a beloved Disney Princess. Her ability to use her hair for various purposes beyond healing showcases her ingenuity and strength.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Image: DisneyJasmine challenges traditional marriage norms, seeking a partner based on character rather than status. Her defiance against arranged marriages and her declaration of autonomy, "How dare you? All of you, standing around deciding my future? I am not a prize to be won!" resonate deeply.

As the first West Asian princess, Jasmine introduces racial diversity to the Disney Princess lineup. Her story in Aladdin emphasizes the importance of authenticity and personal choice.

2. Merida (Brave)

Image: DisneyMerida's refusal to marry and her desire to control her own destiny set her apart. Her conflict with her mother, Queen Elinor, over traditional expectations leads to a transformative journey involving a spell that turns Elinor into a bear. Merida's resolution to the situation underscores her leadership and independence.

As the first Disney Princess from a Pixar film and the first to remain single, Merida breaks the mold of the damsel in distress. Her skills in archery, sword fighting, and horseback riding further highlight her strength and autonomy.

1. Mulan

Image: DisneyMulan, inspired by a Chinese folk tale, defies gender norms by joining the Imperial Chinese Army in her father's place. Her bravery and strategic thinking lead to the defeat of the Hun army and the rescue of the Emperor.

Although not born into royalty, Mulan's actions earn her the title of Disney Princess. Her story in Mulan emphasizes persistence, family honor, and the rejection of traditional gender roles, making her a powerful symbol of empowerment.