The Evil Queen's Dress Evolution: From Grimms' Fairy Tale to the 2025 Live-Action Movie

The release of the new Snow White live-action 2025 movie has sparked plenty of discussions, but while many focus on Snow White herself, let’s not forget the true fashion icon of the story, the Evil Queen. From her regal presence to her commanding style, the Evil Queen has remained one of the most iconic villains in fairytale history.

As a lifelong Disney fan (and someone who secretly roots for the villains), I can’t help but admire the sheer elegance and power in the Evil Queen’s style. No matter what the adaptation is, her dress is always displaying drama and authority.

In this blog, we’ll take a darkly glamorous journey through time. From her earliest storybook depictions to the striking new look in the 2025 live-action adaptation, let’s explore The Evil Queen's Dress Evolution: From Grimms' Fairy Tale to the 2025 Live-Action.

The Original Evil Queen in the Grimm’s Fairy Tale

Before she became the glamorous villain of animation and film, the Evil Queen first appeared in the Brothers Grimm’s 1812 fairy tale. Unlike later depictions, early illustrations portrayed her as a noblewoman rather than a dark sorceress.

Early depictions often featured:

• Flowing gowns with intricate patterns and embroidery

• Softer, pastel shades with floral or jewel-like details

• Delicate lace or ruffled accents adding to her aristocratic look

• Modest yet regal silhouettes, reflecting historical fashion trends

• A refined yet formidable presence, reinforcing her royal status

Franz Jüttner’s 1910 Evil Queen Illustration

One of the earliest known illustrations of the Evil Queen comes from Franz Jüttner’s 1910 version of the Grimm Brothers’ fairytales. In this interpretation, she is regal yet austere, with an air of detached cruelty. Her attire is a reflection of both her royal status and the eerie mystique that surrounds her character, setting the stage for future adaptations that would further explore her dark elegance.

Key features:

• A long, elegant gown in deep jewel tones, adorned with intricate patterns

• Fitted sleeves with dramatic accents

• A stately, pointed crown emphasizing her dominance

• A refined, almost ghostly presence, foreshadowing her dark magic

• An opulent, flowing train that adds to her commanding aura

Disney’s 1937 Animated Evil Queen

The 1937 animated classic gave us the most recognized version of the Evil Queen—a stunning, cold, and sophisticated ruler who exudes elegance and danger in equal measure.

Her iconic outfit includes:

• A flowing, floor-length black gown with purple accents

• A dramatic high white collar framing her face

• Long, wide sleeves that add to her regal silhouette

• A golden angular pointed crown that shouts of power

• A deep red, jewel-encrusted brooch fastening her cloak

This version cemented her status as the ultimate animated villainess, influencing generations of villain fashion.

Evil Queen in Once Upon a Time (2011–2018)

Lana Parrilla’s portrayal of the Evil Queen in Once Upon a Time gave us a modern yet deeply theatrical take on the character. Regina Mills, as she was known in the real world, exuded power and sophistication with every costume change, blending dark fantasy with high fashion.

Her style was iconic for:

• Dark, brocade gowns with structured bodices that emphasized her authority

• High and dramatic collars that's a signature element of her villainous look

• Rich fabrics like velvet and leather, often detailed with lace and embroidery

• Elaborate hairstyles and bold makeup, highlighting her ruthless beauty

• Regal yet menacing accessories, including jeweled chokers, gloves, and intricate rings

Regina’s Evil Queen was both a fierce ruler and a tragic character, making her one of the most compelling interpretations of the role. Her wardrobe reflected her journey from vengeful sorceress to a redeemed leader while always maintaining an air of undeniable majesty.

2012 Snow White and the Huntsman

Charlize Theron’s portrayal in Snow White and the Huntsman reimagined the Evil Queen as a dark warrior, her look reflecting both medieval power and supernatural menace.

Her outfits featured:

• Heavily structured gowns in dark and gold metallic tones

• Armor-inspired bodices, merging royalty with battle-readiness

• Feathered accents, symbolizing dark magic and transformation

• Intricate crowns that blended regal beauty with an eerie edge

2012 Mirror Mirror

Julia Roberts’ Evil Queen in Mirror Mirror took a playful yet grandiose approach, embracing extravagant fashion with a dramatic flair. Her costumes channeled regal excess and theatricality, with designs that were both whimsical and imposing.

Her gowns showcased:

• Rich satins and brocades adorned with intricate embroidery and gemstone embellishments

• A striking palette of deep reds, silvers, golds, and whites, reinforcing themes of vanity and wealth

• Exaggerated, fan-like collars and intricate lace detailing, adding a theatrical effect

• Regal accessories, including elaborate tiaras and feathered accents, elevating her royal presence

2025 Live-Action Snow White

The newest live-action adaptation brings a fresh take on the Evil Queen, blending historical fashion with modern cinematic style.

Her striking new gown features:

• A meticulously structured bodice with intricate embroidery, reflecting her regal authority

• Billowing, floor-length sleeves that add an air of mystique and power

• A deep, moody color palette, rich purples, midnight blues, and blacks, to emphasize her dark allure

• Textured fabrics such as brocade, velvet, and silk, creating an opulent yet formidable presence

• A refined yet commanding crown, crafted with delicate metalwork and dark gemstone embellishments

This version of the Evil Queen embraces realism and grandeur that's making her presence even more captivating and fearsome.

Images were used for educational purposes only. Copyright belongs to their rightful owner.

Power Never Goes Out of Style

While each adaptation brings a new twist, one thing remains the same, the Evil Queen’s style is always regal, dramatic, and unforgettable. Whether she’s an illustrated monarch, an animated icon, or a live-action sorceress, her presence always command attention.

Evil Queen-Inspired Fashion for Modern-Day Villainesses

The allure of the Evil Queen goes beyond the screen. Her blend of elegance and dark power makes her an irresistible fashion inspiration. That’s why we created our own take on an Evil Queen-inspired collection, designed for modern-day queens who want to embrace their inner villain, exude poise, and command attention with undeniable style.

Shop the Collection:

Evil Queen Dress for Adults

This stunning Evil Queen-inspired dress features a flowing black and purple design, complete with a corset-style bodice that enhances its regal elegance. The dramatic sleeves add a sense of power and grandeur, ensuring a commanding presence with every twirl. Finishing the look is a structured, high-neck collar, delivering that signature villainous flair that exudes both sophistication and authority.

Evil Queen Dress with Cape:

This luxurious black velvet cape is lined with bold red satin, creating a striking contrast that commands attention. The elegant white fur trim adds an extra touch of villainous opulence, embodying the grandeur of a true queen. Designed for both comfort and versatility, this cape is the perfect layering piece to complete your enchanting, regal look.

Evil Queen Dress for Kids

This playful yet elegant black dress features charming puffed sleeves, blending sophistication with a touch of whimsy. The detachable red overskirt adds a dramatic pop of color, allowing for versatile styling options. Completing the look is a golden crown headband, the perfect accessory for a queen ready to plot her next move in style.

Conclusion

There you have it! The Evil Queen's Dress Evolution: From Grimms' Fairy Tale to the 2025 Live-Action Movie. At V Sparkles, we celebrate imagination, creativity, and the magic of storytelling. Whether you’re channeling a princess or a queen, we believe fashion should empower you to live your fairytale. Because being the “fairest of them all” isn’t about mirrors, it’s also about confidence, strength, and owning your story.