Moana’s outfit stands out from other Disney princesses because it’s not just about looking pretty, it is designed for adventure. Since Moana is a wayfinder and voyager, her clothes had to be practical and comfortable for sailing, running and exploring. According to Disney’s costume designer Neysa Bové (2016), her outfit was created to suit her active lifestyle.
Her top and skirt are inspired by tapa cloth, a fabric made from the bark of mulberry trees, traditionally used across the Pacific Islands. The bold patterns on her skirt are based on real Polynesian designs, which often represent nature, ancestry, and strength (Bowers Museum, 2021). The woven fringe at the bottom looks like dried pandanus leaves, which are used in traditional clothing and crafts.
Moana also walks barefoot throughout the film. It’s more than just how it looks, it shows the close relationship many Pacific Islanders have with nature. (Tumblr user hafanforever, 2020).
Another cultural detail is the bracelet she wears, which looks like it is woven from plant fibers and shells. Accessories like this are common in Polynesian cultures, especially during dances or special ceremonies (Bové, 2016).
Figure 6. Moana costume concept art. Walt Disney and Neysa Bove, 2016. https://nique.net/entertainment/2016/11/11/disney-designer-details-moana-costume-process/