Welcome to the magical world of Disney Princesses! Do you know that there are 13 official Disney Princesses? From Snow White to Moana, each princess has a unique story to tell and a special place in the hearts of millions of fans around the world. In this ultimate guide, we will take a closer look at each of these beloved characters, exploring their backgrounds, adventures, and lessons learned along the way. So, grab your crown and let’s dive into the enchanting world of Disney Princesses!
An Overview of Disney Princesses
Who are Disney Princesses?
Definition of Disney Princesses
Disney Princesses are a group of fictional characters that appear in films produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios. These characters are typically female and are often depicted as heroines, with the majority of them being royalty.
Characteristics of Disney Princesses
Disney Princesses are known for their kindness, bravery, and determination. They often go on adventures and face challenges, but always stay true to themselves and their values. Many of them also have magical powers or special abilities, such as singing or dancing, which they use to overcome obstacles. Additionally, Disney Princesses are often depicted as being strong-willed and independent, but also kind and compassionate towards others.
The History of Disney Princesses
Disney Princesses have been a beloved part of popular culture for decades, capturing the hearts and imaginations of children and adults alike. The history of Disney Princesses can be divided into two distinct eras: the early Disney Princesses and the modern Disney Princesses.
Early Disney Princesses
The earliest Disney Princesses first appeared in the 1930s, during the golden age of Disney animation. These early Princesses, such as Snow White and Cinderella, were based on classic fairy tales and were designed to be the perfect role models for young girls. They were known for their kindness, bravery, and determination, and their stories have been beloved by generations of children.
Modern Disney Princesses
In the 1980s and 1990s, Disney began to create a new wave of Princesses, including Ariel from “The Little Mermaid,” Belle from “Beauty and the Beast,” and Jasmine from “Aladdin.” These modern Princesses were more complex and relatable than their predecessors, and they often faced challenges and obstacles that were more realistic and relevant to contemporary audiences. They also introduced a more diverse range of characters, including Princesses from different cultures and backgrounds.
Today, the Disney Princess franchise continues to evolve and expand, with new Princesses being added to the lineup and new stories being told. The legacy of Disney Princesses lives on, inspiring young girls to be brave, kind, and confident, and reminding us all of the power of imagination and dreams.
The 13 Disney Princesses
1. Snow White
Storyline
Snow White is the first Disney Princess and one of the most iconic characters in the Disney universe. Her story begins with her being poisoned by her jealous stepmother, who is angry that Snow White is more beautiful than she is. Snow White is put into a magically-induced sleep and is discovered by a huntsman, who is tasked with taking her into the woods to be killed. However, Snow White is saved by a group of seven dwarfs, who take her in and protect her from her stepmother’s attempts to kill her.
In the end, Snow White is able to outsmart her stepmother and live happily ever after with the dwarfs.
Personality
Snow White is often seen as a kind and gentle princess, who is known for her beauty and her love of singing. She is also known for her strong sense of compassion and her willingness to help others. Despite being put in dangerous situations, Snow White remains optimistic and hopeful, always believing that things will work out in the end.
Dress
Snow White’s signature dress is a traditional, medieval-style dress with a high neckline and long sleeves. The dress is often white with red accents, and it is adorned with flowers and other decorations. Snow White also wears a crown on her head, which is a symbol of her royal status.
2. Cinderella
Cinderella is a kind-hearted young woman who lives with her cruel stepmother and stepsisters. Despite their mistreatment, Cinderella remains optimistic and dreams of attending the royal ball. With the help of her fairy godmother, she is transformed into a beautiful princess and attends the ball, where she captures the heart of the prince. However, she must flee the ball at midnight, losing her glass slipper in the process. The prince searches for her, and eventually, Cinderella’s kindness and bravery win him over. They marry, and Cinderella lives happily ever after.
Cinderella is known for her kindness, humility, and optimism. Despite her difficult circumstances, she remains positive and never gives up on her dreams. She is also a hard worker, taking care of her stepsisters and their home despite being mistreated by them. Cinderella is a beloved character for her strong character and inspiring story.
Cinderella’s iconic dress is a beautiful blue gown with a lace overlay and a tiara to match. The dress is transformed from a pumpkin coach, and it is one of the most recognizable and beloved Disney Princess dresses. The dress is also a symbol of Cinderella’s transformation from a poor servant to a beautiful princess, representing the power of kindness and bravery.
3. Aurora
Aurora, also known as Briar Rose, is the protagonist of Disney’s 1959 film “Sleeping Beauty.” The story follows Aurora’s journey as she discovers her true identity and defeats the evil Maleficent, who curses her at her birth. With the help of her animal friends and her true love, Prince Philip, Aurora overcomes the curse and ultimately wakes up from her enchanted sleep.
Aurora is a kind, gentle, and compassionate princess who is known for her beauty and grace. She is also curious and adventurous, often exploring the forest and discovering new things. Despite her naivety and innocence, Aurora is brave and determined, especially when it comes to standing up to Maleficent and saving her kingdom.
Aurora’s iconic dress is a pink and blue corset-style gown with a matching bow in her hair. The dress features a lace-up back and a full skirt with a slit on the side. The design of the dress is inspired by the art nouveau style and features intricate details, such as pearl and silver embroidery. Aurora’s dress has become one of the most recognizable and beloved Disney princess costumes of all time.
4. Ariel
Ariel, the daughter of King Triton and Queen Athena, is a mermaid who dreams of exploring the human world. She becomes fascinated with Prince Eric after rescuing him from a shipwreck, and trades her voice to the sea witch Ursula in exchange for legs so she can be with him. Ariel must then navigate the complexities of human life and find a way to defeat Ursula’s control over her, all while discovering the true meaning of love and family.
Ariel is a curious, adventurous, and compassionate mermaid. She is driven by her desire to explore the human world and learn about the creatures that inhabit it. She is also fiercely independent and determined, as evidenced by her willingness to make deals with Ursula in order to achieve her goals. However, she is also kind-hearted and empathetic, as shown by her concern for the animals she encounters and her eventual decision to sacrifice her voice to save Eric’s life.
Ariel’s iconic dress is a signature feature of her character. The dress is made of shimmering blue fabric with white and purple accents, and is adorned with pearls and a silver tiara. The dress is fitted at the top and flares out at the bottom, with a plunging neckline that reveals her tail fin. The dress is also equipped with a small set of wings that allow Ariel to swim and fly through the ocean.
5. Belle
Belle is the protagonist of the 1991 Disney animated film, “Beauty and the Beast.” She is a kind, intelligent, and independent young woman living in a small French village. Belle’s father, Maurice, is an inventor, and the two of them share a close bond. One day, while wandering through the forest, Belle meets the Beast, a cursed prince who is trapped in his enchanted form. Despite their initial hostility towards each other, Belle and the Beast eventually develop a deep bond, and the Beast learns to love and be loved in return.
Belle is an independent and intelligent young woman who values knowledge and adventure. She is kind-hearted and compassionate, always putting the needs of others before her own. Belle is also strong-willed and determined, standing up to those who would try to control her. She is a true heroine, and her bravery and intelligence inspire those around her.
Belle’s iconic yellow ballgown is one of the most recognizable costumes in all of Disney’s animated films. The dress features a fitted bodice with a lace-up back, a corseted waist, and a full skirt with a petticoat underneath. The dress is adorned with gold and silver accents, including a golden belt and a tiara in her hair. Belle’s signature look is completed with her long, red hair worn in a loose, romantic style.
6. Jasmine
Jasmine is the main protagonist of the 1992 Disney animated feature film, Aladdin. She is a strong-willed and independent princess who is not afraid to speak her mind. Jasmine lives in the fictional city of Agrabah, where she is constantly searching for a way to escape the limitations placed upon her by her father, the Sultan.
Jasmine is a kind and compassionate person who cares deeply about her people. She is fiercely independent and is not afraid to stand up for what she believes in. Despite being a princess, Jasmine is not afraid to get her hands dirty and is willing to do whatever it takes to help those in need.
Jasmine’s signature outfit consists of a pink and blue dress with a gold belt and matching bracelets. The dress is adorned with intricate gold and silver patterns, and Jasmine wears her long, dark hair in a loose braid. She also wears a pair of gold hoop earrings and a silver necklace with a small blue gemstone.
7. Pocahontas
Pocahontas is the eighth Disney Princess, and she is the first Native American princess in the Disney Princess lineup. Her story is based on the real-life story of Pocahontas, a Native American woman who lived in the early 1600s.
Storyline
Pocahontas’ story revolves around her journey to save her people from the evil Governor Ratcliffe and his plans to take over their land. She falls in love with John Smith, a colonist who has come to explore the new world. However, their love is tested when they discover that they are on opposite sides of a conflict. Pocahontas must choose between her love for John and her loyalty to her people.
Personality
Pocahontas is a strong and independent young woman who is deeply connected to nature and her tribe. She is a skilled communicator and is able to bridge the gap between her people and the colonists. She is also fiercely protective of her land and her people, and she will do whatever it takes to keep them safe.
Dress
Pocahontas’ signature outfit consists of a blue and green dress with fringe and a white undershirt. She also wears a headband with feathers and a necklace with a large shell pendant. Her outfit reflects her connection to nature and her tribal heritage.
Overall, Pocahontas is a strong and brave Disney Princess who stands up for what she believes in and is willing to put herself in harm’s way to protect her people.
8. Mulan
Mulan is a Disney Princess based on a Chinese legend. Her story revolves around her journey to becoming a respected warrior and protecting her family’s honor. Mulan takes her father’s place in the army and disguises herself as a man to join the fight against the Huns. Along the way, she befriends a talking animal companion, a tiny dragon named Mushu, and she must also confront her own insecurities and learn to believe in herself.
Mulan is a determined and courageous character who is willing to do whatever it takes to protect her family’s honor. She is also very loyal and has a strong sense of duty. Despite her lack of self-confidence, Mulan is able to overcome her fears and prove herself as a capable warrior.
Mulan’s signature dress is a beautiful red and gold outfit, complete with a long flowing skirt and a intricate bodice. The dress is traditional Chinese style and features gold accents and intricate detailing. It is often worn during special occasions and ceremonies, and it reflects Mulan’s strong sense of pride and tradition.
9. Tiana
Tiana is the protagonist of the 2009 Disney film, “The Princess and the Frog.” She is a hardworking and ambitious young woman who dreams of opening her own restaurant in New Orleans. Tiana’s story begins when she meets Prince Naveen, who has been turned into a frog by a wicked sorceress. Together, they embark on a journey to break the curse and find true love. Along the way, they encounter challenges and obstacles, but Tiana’s determination and bravery help them overcome these difficulties.
Tiana is a strong-willed and independent character who values hard work and determination. She is a skilled worker and has a natural talent for cooking and baking. Despite her ambition, Tiana is also kind and compassionate, always putting the needs of others before her own. She is fiercely loyal to those she cares about and will do anything to protect them.
Tiana’s signature outfit consists of a white blouse with a black bow at the neck, a green apron, and a brown skirt. She also wears a pair of black Mary Jane shoes and has long, braided hair styled in a bun. In her transformation into a princess, Tiana wears a beautiful blue ballgown with a tiara to match. The dress is adorned with glittering diamonds and pearls, and Tiana looks stunning in it.
10. Rapunzel
Rapunzel is the main protagonist of the 2010 Disney film, “Tangled.” The story follows her as she sets out on an adventure to explore the world beyond her tower, where she has been locked away by a wicked witch named Gothel, who uses Rapunzel’s magical hair to keep herself young. Along the way, she meets a thief named Flynn Rider, and the two embark on a journey filled with danger, romance, and self-discovery.
Rapunzel is a spirited and curious young woman, who has spent her entire life confined to a tower. Despite her sheltered upbringing, she is adventurous and longs to see the world beyond her prison. She is also kind-hearted and compassionate, always looking out for the well-being of those around her.
Rapunzel’s signature outfit consists of a long, purple dress with a gold bodice and a green underskirt. She also wears brown boots and has long, magical hair that is usually styled in a braid. Throughout the film, she is often seen with a crown made of golden flowers in her hair.
11. Merida
Merida is the main protagonist of the 2012 Disney-Pixar film, “Brave.” She is a headstrong and determined young princess who lives in the Scottish kingdom of DunBroch. Merida’s story revolves around her struggle to break free from the traditional expectations placed upon her as a princess and forge her own path in life. She defies the customs of her kingdom by pursuing her own interests and desires, ultimately leading to a series of events that challenge her relationship with her mother, the queen.
Merida is a fiercely independent and strong-willed princess. She is not afraid to speak her mind and stands up for what she believes in. She is also a skilled archer and a master of sword fighting. Despite her tough exterior, Merida has a kind heart and a deep love for her family. She is also a talented musician and singer, and enjoys spending time in nature.
Merida’s signature outfit consists of a green dress with a blue sash, a matching blue cloak, and a crown of flowers in her hair. This outfit reflects her love for the outdoors and her skill as an archer. In the film, Merida is seen wearing a variety of different outfits, each reflecting her evolving character and personal growth throughout the story.
12. Elsa
Elsa is the first Disney Princess to be introduced in the 21st century. She is the protagonist of the 2013 animated film, Frozen. Elsa is a princess of the kingdom of Arendelle, and she is born with the magical ability to control ice and snow. She is destined to rule the kingdom one day, but her powers are a dangerous secret that must be hidden from the public. As the story unfolds, Elsa’s sister, Anna, seeks to find Elsa, who has fled the kingdom after accidentally revealing her powers and causing a winter storm. The story follows Elsa’s journey to self-discovery and the power of true love.
Elsa is a complex character who struggles with her powers and her responsibilities as a future queen. She is initially fearful and isolates herself from others due to her powers. However, as the story progresses, Elsa learns to embrace her powers and takes control of her destiny. She is also fiercely protective of her sister, Anna, and puts her own life at risk to save her.
Elsa’s iconic dress is a key element of her character design. The dress is a beautiful blue and white gown with intricate details, including a high neckline, long sleeves, and a fitted waist. The dress is adorned with Swarovski crystals, which sparkle and shimmer in the light. The dress is also embellished with white fur, which adds to the overall regal and elegant look of the outfit. Elsa’s dress is not only beautiful but also functional, as it is designed to keep her warm in the snowy kingdom of Arendelle.
In summary, Elsa is a powerful and complex character who undergoes a journey of self-discovery in the film Frozen. Her iconic dress is a stunning piece of character design that complements her personality and the story.
13. Moana
Moana is a Disney princess who is the protagonist of the 2016 animated film “Moana”. The story follows Moana, a young girl from a small Pacific island, as she embarks on a journey to save her people from a terrible curse. Along the way, she meets the legendary demigod Maui, and together they face many challenges and obstacles as they journey across the ocean.
Moana is a strong, determined, and courageous young woman. She is deeply connected to her culture and her people, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to protect them. She is also very resourceful and intelligent, using her wits and her knowledge of the ocean to overcome the challenges she faces.
Moana’s dress is a beautiful, hand-stitched piece made from natural materials. It is a simple yet elegant design, featuring a fitted bodice and a full skirt. The dress is made from layers of colored fabrics, with patterns and motifs that reflect Moana’s Polynesian heritage. The dress is completed with a sash around the waist and a necklace with a pendant in the shape of a heart.
The Appeal of Disney Princesses
Why are Disney Princesses Popular?
- Timeless Stories
Disney Princesses have been beloved by generations of children and adults alike due to their timeless stories. These stories often revolve around themes of love, friendship, bravery, and self-discovery, making them relatable to people of all ages. Many of the stories also contain elements of magic and adventure, adding to their appeal. - Strong Female Role Models
Another reason why Disney Princesses are so popular is that they are strong female role models. Each Princess has her own unique personality, strengths, and weaknesses, and they all face challenges and obstacles that they must overcome. Through their stories, children can learn important lessons about perseverance, courage, and kindness. - Colorful and Imaginative Worlds
Finally, Disney Princesses inhabit some of the most colorful and imaginative worlds in all of fiction. From the enchanted forests of Snow White and Sleeping Beauty to the underwater kingdom of The Little Mermaid, each Princess’s world is full of vibrant characters, stunning landscapes, and magical creatures. This helps to transport audiences to a world of fantasy and wonder, where anything is possible.
Disney Princesses in Pop Culture
Merchandise
Disney Princesses have been a major part of the merchandising industry for many years. They are featured on a wide range of products, including clothing, toys, books, and accessories. This has helped to make them popular with children and adults alike, who enjoy collecting and wearing items featuring their favorite Disney characters.
Movies
Disney Princesses have also been featured in numerous movies, both animated and live-action. These films have become iconic and have helped to establish the Disney Princess brand as a staple of popular culture. The movies often tell stories of adventure, friendship, and romance, which appeal to audiences of all ages.
Theme Parks
Disney Princesses are also a major part of the Disney theme park experience. The parks feature attractions, shows, and meet-and-greet opportunities with the princesses, which are popular with visitors of all ages. The Disney Princess brand has helped to make the theme parks a major tourist destination, and the princesses are a key part of the overall Disney experience.
The Future of Disney Princesses
Upcoming Disney Princesses
Disney has a long history of creating beloved and iconic princesses, and the future looks bright for these characters. In this section, we will explore the upcoming Disney princesses, including future movies and characters.
Future Movies
Disney has a number of live-action adaptations of their classic animated films in the works, including several that feature princesses. Some of the upcoming movies that feature Disney princesses include:
- The Little Mermaid (2023) – A live-action adaptation of the classic tale, starring Halle Bailey as Ariel.
- Snow White (2023) – A live-action adaptation of the classic tale, with a diverse cast including Gal Gadot as the Evil Queen.
- The Princess and the Frog (2024) – A live-action adaptation of the 2009 animated film, set in New Orleans.
- Cinderella (2024) – A live-action adaptation of the classic tale, starring Camila Cabello as Cinderella.
- Beauty and the Beast (2024) – A live-action adaptation of the classic tale, with a diverse cast including Rihanna as Belle.
Future Characters
In addition to the live-action adaptations, Disney is also developing new animated movies featuring princesses. Some of the upcoming characters include:
- Moana (2023) – A sequel to the 2016 animated film, featuring Moana as she explores new lands and meets new characters.
- Raya and the Last Dragon (2023) – An animated film about a young warrior named Raya, who is searching for a legendary dragon to save her kingdom.
- The Snow Queen (2024) – An animated film based on the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, featuring a new version of the Snow Queen and her quest to find her missing sister.
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure (2024) – A new attraction at Disney World, featuring Tiana from The Princess and the Frog as she explores the bayou.
Overall, the future looks bright for Disney princesses, with a variety of exciting movies and characters on the horizon. These characters will continue to inspire and captivate audiences for years to come.
Evolving Representation in Disney Princesses
Disney has come a long way in terms of representation in their princess lineup. The evolution of Disney Princesses over the years has been significant, and it’s interesting to see how the company has progressed in terms of diversity and inclusivity.
Diversity in Disney Princesses
In the past, Disney princesses were primarily white and European. However, in recent years, Disney has made an effort to include more diverse characters in their princess lineup. This includes princesses of different ethnicities, such as Moana from Polynesia and Mulan from China. These additions to the Disney Princess lineup have been well-received by audiences, and they help to promote a more inclusive and diverse view of princesses.
Inclusivity in Disney Princesses
In addition to adding more diverse characters, Disney has also made an effort to include more characters with disabilities. For example, the character of Cri-Kee in the movie “Mulan” has a hearing impairment. This representation of a character with a disability is a positive step towards promoting inclusivity in Disney Princesses.
Furthermore, Disney has also been making an effort to promote gender diversity in their princess lineup. In recent years, they have introduced more strong and independent female characters, such as Merida from Scotland and Tiana from New Orleans. These characters are not just passive princesses waiting for a prince to save them; they are active and capable women who can save themselves.
Overall, the evolving representation in Disney Princesses is a positive trend that is likely to continue in the future. Disney has come a long way in terms of diversity and inclusivity, and they are committed to continuing to promote these values through their princess lineup.
FAQs
1. What are the 13 Disney Princesses?
The 13 Disney Princesses are a group of fictional characters from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ films. They are: Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel, Merida, Anna, Elsa, and Moana.
2. How many Disney Princesses are there?
There are 13 official Disney Princesses. They are Snow White, Cinderella, Aurora, Ariel, Belle, Jasmine, Pocahontas, Mulan, Tiana, Rapunzel, Merida, Anna, Elsa, and Moana.
3. Which Disney Princess is the first?
Snow White is considered the first Disney Princess, as she was the first to be featured in a Disney film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, which was released in 1937.
4. Who is the most recent Disney Princess?
Moana is the most recent Disney Princess, as she was introduced in the 2016 film Moana.
5. What are the requirements for a character to be considered a Disney Princess?
A character can be considered a Disney Princess if they are a female protagonist from a Walt Disney Animation Studios film, and if they are either royal by birth or married to a prince.
6. Are there any Disney Princesses of color?
Yes, there are three Disney Princesses of color: Tiana from The Princess and the Frog, Moana from Moana, and Mulan from Mulan.
7. Are there any Disney Princesses from non-European cultures?
Yes, there are three Disney Princesses from non-European cultures: Pocahontas from Pocahontas, Moana from Moana, and Mulan from Mulan.
8. Are there any Disney Princesses who are not royalty?
Yes, there are two Disney Princesses who are not royalty: Tiana from The Princess and the Frog and Moana from Moana.
9. Are there any Disney Princesses who are not humans?
Yes, there are two Disney Princesses who are not humans: Ariel from The Little Mermaid and Rapunzel from Tangled.
10. What are the ages of the Disney Princesses?
The ages of the Disney Princesses vary, as they come from different time periods and cultures. However, they are all portrayed as young adults.
11. What are the names of the Disney Princesses’ prince partners?
The names of the Disney Princesses’ prince partners are: Prince Charming (Snow White), Prince Phillip (Sleeping Beauty), Prince Eric (The Little Mermaid), Aladdin (Aladdin), Prince Naveen (The Princess and the Frog), Flynn Rider (Tangled), and Chief Tui (Moana).
12. Are there any Disney Princesses who are not romantically involved with a prince?
Yes, there are two Disney Princesses who are not romantically involved with a prince: Tiana from The Princess and the Frog and Moana from Moana.
13. Are there any Disney Princesses who are not married?
Yes, there are three Disney Princesses who are not married: Snow White, Ariel, and Moana.
