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 critics.

9. Moana

Image: DisneyMoana, the daughter of Motunui's chief, breaks the mold by not aspiring to marry 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 leads her to confront Te Kā, realizing that this entity is the corrupted form of Te Fiti. By returning the heart, she restores Te Fiti and saves 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, allowing her to capture the Prince's heart. Despite initial criticisms of passivity, Cinderella shows resourcefulness by enlisting her animal friends to aid her escape from confinement.

Her iconic ball gown and glass slippers have made her a fashion icon. Interestingly, Disney changed her dress color from silver to baby blue for costumes to avoid resembling a child bride.

7. Ariel (The Little Mermaid)

Image: DisneyAriel embodies teenage rebellion, yearning to explore the human world. She defies her father, King Triton, amassing a collection of human artifacts and rescuing Prince Eric. Her quest to become human leads her to make a deal with Ursula, risking her voice and freedom. With the help of Eric, Sebastian, and Flounder, Ariel defeats Ursula and marries her prince.

In the sequel, Ariel becomes the first Disney Princess to become a mother, giving birth to Melody, who dreams of life as a mermaid.

6. Tiana (The Princess and the Frog)

Image: DisneySet in Jazz Age New Orleans, Tiana embodies hard work and determination. She juggles two jobs to fulfill her dream of opening a restaurant, a promise to her late father. Her life takes a magical turn when she kisses Prince Naveen, turning into a frog. Their journey teaches Naveen responsibility, and Tiana remains steadfast in her values, rejecting Dr. Facilier's tempting offer.

Tiana is the first African American Disney Princess and a feminist icon, showcasing the power of perseverance and integrity.

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 of the curse, Belle grows to love the Beast, breaking the spell with her declaration of love.

Belle challenges traditional princess stereotypes, valuing knowledge and rejecting Gaston's superficial advances. Her screenwriter, Linda Woolverton, crafted her as a feminist icon.

4. Rapunzel (Tangled)

Image: DisneyRapunzel, raised in isolation by Mother Gothel, seizes her chance for freedom when Flynn Rider stumbles into her tower. 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, using her magical hair for more than just healing.

3. Jasmine (Aladdin)

Image: DisneyJasmine challenges traditional marriage norms, seeking a partner based on character rather than status. Her defiance against arranged marriage and her empowering declaration, "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 and stands as a symbol of female empowerment.

2. Merida (Brave)

Image: DisneyMerida refuses to conform to societal expectations of marriage, choosing instead to control her own destiny. Her conflict with her mother, Queen Elinor, over her refusal to marry leads to a transformative journey involving a spell that turns Elinor into a bear.

Merida, the first Disney Princess from a Pixar film and the first to remain single, embodies strength and independence, excelling in archery, sword fighting, and horseback riding.

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 mind lead to the defeat of the Hun army, and she ultimately saves the Emperor.

Mulan, crowned a princess by Disney despite not being born into royalty, symbolizes persistence, family honor, and breaking free from traditional gender roles.