Disney’s live-action Snow White stays true to the original costume palette and silhouette, instantly recognizable with subtle changes.
Rachel Zegler’s portrayal receives criticism for outdated style elements, such as puffed sleeves and high collars, compared to modern princesses.

Despite some backlash, Snow White is set to be released on March 21, 2025, with Zegler and Gadot in starring roles, adapted to a classic film.

The latest Disney classic to get the live-action treatment is Snow White, starring Rachel Zegler – but how does her costume compare to that of Disney’s animated classic? One trend that continues to gain force in the film industry is live-action versions of animated movies. Disney has taken full advantage of it by bringing some of its animated classics to life, though not always successfully. Now, Disney is focusing again on its princesses with the live-action version of the movie that started it all: Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs.

Snow White (2024) Teaser Trailer

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Based on the fairytale by the Brothers Grimm, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs was released in 1937 and was not only the first Disney-animated movie but also the first full-length traditionally animated feature film. Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs is now a classic of not only Disney but cinema in general and is the most famous adaptation of the Brothers Grimm’s tale. Now, the live-action remake is on the way, with Zegler donning the iconic gown of Disney’s very first princess.

How Closely Rachel Zegler’s Snow White Dress Compares To The Animated Movie

Disney Stayed True To The Source This Time

 

Zegler’s Snow White costume has the same vibrant color palette as the animated version, with blue, white, yellow, and red. The silhouette of the dress is pretty much the same, with a long, flowing skirt, puffy sleeves, a square neckline, and the classic white collar. In all, this live-action version of the iconic princess is instantly recognizable—perhaps even the most so of any previous Disney live-action remake. However, the costume designer for 2025’s Snow White did make some subtle changes to the gown’s look.

The most obvious difference is that Zegler’s Snow White gown has long sleeves, while the animated version’s sleeves end at the puffs. Additionally, rather than a smooth bodice, the live-action dress features red laces in the front, similar to a corset. Below this is a small belt built into the gown, with a tiny red clasp. The skirt of Zegler’s dress, though this same color, has a different texture than was implied by the original animated Snow White. It’s made of flowing layers of tulle, adding a further sense of whimsy to the overall style.

Why There Are Concerns With Snow White’s Appearance In Disney’s Live-Action Movie

Zegler’s Outfit Has Been Criticized

While Zegler’s Snow White gown is very true to the source, there has still been quite a lot of backlash regarding her look. Early on, when Disney had only released teaser images, this came down to the gown looking cheap. However, the trailer for 2025’s Snow White presents a far more refined and vibrant dress. Regardless, concerns about the appearance of Disney’s live-action Snow White have continued to pour in. Zegler is a beautiful actor perfectly fitted to a princess like Snow White, but many have found her look unflattering.

Puffed sleeves, high collars, and square necklines are no longer trendy, and Zegler looks outdated compared to Emma Watson’s Belle or Lilly James’ Cinderella.

This may be because, unlike Disney’s other live-action princess movies, Snow White’s gown and general style weren’t modernized. Puffed sleeves, high collars, and square necklines are no longer trendy, and Zegler looks outdated compared to Emma Watson’s Belle or Lilly James’ Cinderella. This is also evident in Zegler’s wig, which is reminiscent of a traditional 1930s bob. It’s very similar to the animated Snow White’s hair but not the sort of flowing look expected for a modern princess. Ultimately, Disney might have gone too close to the source with 2025’s Snow White.