How exactly does Merida’s new design change her character? If you look at her new design in terms of art style instead of in terms of subliminal messaging, the answer becomes clear: Disney had to make her look at least a little similar to the other princesses if she wasn’t going to stand out in the lineup. What’s the big deal? “Merida was the princess that countless girls and their parents are waiting for-a strong, confident, self-rescuing princess ready to set off on her next adventure with her bow at the ready,” reads “Keep Merida Brave,” a petition demanding that Disney reconsider Merida’s new design. It doesn’t change the message of her movie. So her new dress makes her look a little slimmer. Simply put, if you don’t try to squint and scrutinize every little detail, Merida’s new design isn’t all that different from her old one-a bit more cartoon-like, maybe, but you can still recognize it’s Merida. The problem didn’t lie in Disney’s new design, however, but in people’s reaction to it. A few days later, after angry backlash from Merida fans, Disney promptly revoked the new design.

But here’s the catch: Merida got a makeover, and her new design is a bit slimmer and sexier, complete with the same gratuitous sparkles that bedazzle all other princesses in the lineup.

With the success of one of Disney’s newest animated movies, “Brave,” lead character Merida has officially been crowned as the 11th Disney princess as of May 11, 2013.

Keep merida brave