The Plus-Size Princess Project Rethinks Disney's Princesses

Natasha Polis, a well-known figure on Instagram, decided to use her platform for more than just sharing fashion and lifestyle stuff.

Damjan

• Published in Interesting
• May 11, 2024

If you're a big fan of Disney princesses, you might have noticed something they're missing: diversity. While these beloved characters have won over millions of hearts, they've often overlooked a big chunk of their audience. But one Instagram influencer is out to change that.

Natasha Polis, a well-known figure on Instagram, decided to use her platform for more than just sharing fashion and lifestyle stuff. She kicked off the Plus-Size Princess Project, aiming to make Disney princesses more inclusive.

Growing up in Orange County, Disney was a huge part of Polis's life, and she felt a deep connection to the magic of the princesses. But she also noticed a big gap in representation.

Over three months, Polis brought together a team of plus-size influencers for a photo series. They put their spin on classic princesses like Belle, Ariel, and Elsa, giving them larger body types. Polis made sure the project was diverse, not just sticking to princess characters but also including other beloved figures from Disney World.

However, the project hit some roadblocks. Finding costumes in plus sizes was tough. Many participants had to get creative, tweaking their outfits to capture the essence of their chosen characters while staying true to their style.

For instance, Rosey Blair dressed up as Cinderella in a blue sundress and a black choker, while Becca Ashmon, playing Ariel, went for athleisure wear. Their choices showed not just their love for these characters, but also their frustration with the lack of diversity in casting decisions.

Despite these challenges, the Plus-Size Princess Project achieved its goal of getting people talking about inclusivity and representation in the Disney world. Participants and supporters alike voiced their hopes for a future where every kid, no matter their size or background, could see themselves in the stories they love.

Natasha Polis wants to make Disney princesses more diverse by featuring plus-size princesses.

The project aims to showcase diversity and inclusivity among Disney princesses, highlighting that it's achievable regardless of body type, skin color, or background.

Finding costumes in their sizes proved challenging, prompting participants to exercise creativity.

People were prioritizing personal style over accuracy, as an example, Rosey Blair embodied Cinderella with a blue sundress and black choker.

Traditional princesses were typically depicted as slender, Caucasian, and often rescued by men.

Polis expressed her desire to sew every gown, but managed to make at least two: her Belle costume and Aurora's pink dress from "Sleeping Beauty."

The efforts of Natasha Polis and the Plus-Size Princess Project have shed light on the importance of inclusivity and representation in beloved cultural icons like Disney princesses. By reimagining these characters with larger body types and sparking discussions around diversity, they've highlighted the need for more inclusive storytelling.

While challenges like sourcing costumes in plus sizes were encountered, the project's success in igniting conversations underscores the desire for a future where everyone can see themselves reflected in the stories they adore. It's a step towards a more inclusive and accepting world where diversity is celebrated in all its forms.

Damjan