When the first trailers and movie posters of Disney’s live-action Cinderella were released, people quickly pointed out that the popular Disney princess seemed to have an impossibly small waist.
Lily James, as Cinderella, enchants the ballroom with her tiny waist accentuated by a corset and a voluminous blue gown (Credit: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
According to Disney, no digital touch-ups were done to manipulate Cinderella’s figure, but a corset was used to shrink the waist. The voluminous tulle skirt also added to the illusion of a smaller midsection.
Lily James’ Defense
Lily James, the star of the film, defended herself by saying that she has a “naturally small waist,” which had merely been emphasized by the corset she had to wear during filming. The 25-year-old actress also had to go on a strict diet to transform her figure.
Lily James as Cinderella, showcasing her tiny waist accentuated by a corset and a voluminous tulle skirt (Credit: Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures)
The Role of the Corset
“I have a naturally small waist,” James told “Nightline” in an interview. “On top of that, I wore a corset that was pulled tight to an inch of my life.”
James explained that the corset slimmed her waist down to 17 inches. “The skirt is so big that the perspective and proportions make it look even smaller than it is,” she added.
Critics’ Concerns About Body Image
Because many children admire Disney princesses, critics argue that the movie’s portrayal of a tiny-waisted Cinderella might promote a negative body image.
Whether this was done with CGI or not, it’s pretty obvious that the waist is unnaturally and impossibly small. Watch the trailer:
“I think it’s all very hypocritical, and they contradict themselves, and they’re drawing more attention to it. I think all that stuff’s so negative, and you’ve got to let it wash over your head,” she told The Times in an interview.
“I’m so healthy. I’ve got hips and boobs and a bum and a small waist.”
Premiere Highlights
Lily James stuns at the Cinderella premiere in an exquisite, full-length beaded gown with a sheer overlay and intricate lace detailing, perfectly paired with simple earrings and a sleek updo to complete her elegant look at the El Capitan Theatre in Los Angeles on March 1, 2015 (Credit: WENN / Brian To / FayesVision)
At the Los Angeles premiere of the movie, Lily looked gorgeous in a stunning couture creation by Elie Saab. Her Fall 2014 gown features embroidered detailing and a full-length skirt with a train fit for a princess.
Lily James dazzles at the Cinderella premiere in a stunning, beaded illusion gown, styled elegantly with minimal accessories and a sleek updo (Credit: WENN / Brian To / FayesVision)
She complemented the dress with drool-worthy Kwiat diamond pieces and Christian Louboutin x Disney “Cinderella” shoes.
Lily James complements her stunning gown with sparkling diamond earrings and rings (Credit: WENN / Brian To / FayesVision)