It’s not news to anyone that Disney princesses are at the heart of Disney culture—given how most Disney movies centre around their stories, in turn, leaving an unforgettable influence on our childhood. They are often the titular characters in their films, they sing songs that are so catchy you can never truly get them out of your head and wear emblematic costumes that are still being sold to dreamy little kids to this day.
And yet, our favourite Disney princesses like Belle or Mulan are not the youngest to say the least, which means, as much as we love them, they could use a bit of a makeover. That’s where TikToker @vanotyarts (real name Yudelmis San Emeterio) comes in to save the day with her amazing artistic skills and her princesses reimagined as modern-day style icons.
Forget about Snow White’s seven besties, the real star of the show is now this pair of flared trousers.
I always thought that modern-day Ariel would be into crochet tops. Turns out I was right.
Let’s be honest here, Jasmine’s original look remains fabulous to this day. After all, there’s a reason Kim Kardashian dressed up as her on Saturday Night Live. But San Emeterio’s subtle update on Jasmine’s hairstyle is simply to die for!
I know Belle loves to read and all that, but that does mean she doesn’t get to experiment with her clothes either. Please note how perfect her new bag would be to carry her books around.
Though not always the go-to favourite for young Disney enthusiasts, Mulan’s character is a force to be reckoned with, and aged 26, I’m not ashamed to admit that all of her outfits slap. Can’t say no to an added pair of grandpacore-esque ugly dad shoes, however.
If you think Mulan deserves even more of a kick-ass transformation, check out this one where she’s sporting a gnarly tattoo:
Tiana’s new look screams strong and independent woman and I’m here for it. I can’t help but think that San Emeterio would agree with our take on princesscore. And if green doesn’t suit your taste, check this other transformation the artist has created:
Speaking of strong and independent princesses, how cool does Merida look in dungarees?
Kristoff’s name shouldn’t really be on this list but come on, how could you resist the beard? Also, loving the chokers on the sisters.
What a babe.
@vanotyarts I feel like I’m just living vicariously through the princesses at this point 😂 I’m painting all the dresses I’d want 👀 #cinderella #disneyprincess
♬ Ocean Eyes - Marie Joy
All it took was to replace Cinderella’s pink lip with a bold red one.
@vanotyarts Not a princess, but a queen 👑 #fyp #parati #tinkerbell #disney #peterpan #gloupdisney
♬ positions - Ariana Grande
Not a princess, but a queen nonetheless.
@vanotyarts Pocahontas always had that model vibe to me 🤩 #Pocahontas #DisneyPrincess #gloupdisney
♬ Do It - Chloe x Halle
Giving off model vibes and I’m here for it.
@vanotyarts Pink or blue? I say both 😌 #aurora #sleepingbeauty #disneyprincess #gloupdisney #glowup
♬ She Share Story (for Vlog) - 山口夕依
Crazy what a bit of eyeliner can do.
@vanotyarts Out of all the female leads in Disney, I resonate with Jane the most. I’m still waiting for my Tarzan, though 😂 #disneyprincess #gloupdisney #jane
♬ Tarzan Medley: You'll Be in My Heart / Two Worlds / Strangers Like Me / Trashin' the Camp - Anthem Lights
Short hair, don’t care.
@vanotyarts The trickiness with 3D edits is that they’re a bit more involved, but Rapunzel is worth it ❤️ #rapunzel #disneyprincess #gloupdisney
♬ GREEDY x TREASURE - conradrocha
Last but not least, Rapunzel and what looks like the most complicated hairstyle ever.
Digital artist Hidreley Diao has made waves across the internet for his unique and fascinating creations. After being reported on by Buzzfeed, Diao’s incredible artwork has continued to catapult into stardom. The artist, who also contributes to Bored Panda, utilises a combination of AI technology and digital software to create life-like interpretations of your favourite cartoon characters and figures of history.
Though there are a few pieces that have been deemed ‘fails’ by commenters—for not being historically accurate to the ethnic features of certain characters—his pieces have proved largely successful and we’ve rounded up some of his most popular ones. Here’s some of the IRL versions of your favourite animated characters.