Mermaidcore is a micro or fringe trend that probably took some inspiration from the new movie, The Little Mermaid. The trend is well suited to high Summer because of its beachy themes, water vibes, and under-the-sea aesthetic. The palette of the trend covers all sorts of pastel, mid-tone, and bright blues, greens, pinks and purples. There are plenty of neutral metallics, whites, sandy creams, and beiges. There’s a bit of peach, citrus, teal and black too.
Body-con and fitted mermaid dress and skirt silhouettes, and fishtail hems are undoubtedly a big part of the trend. So are all sorts of crochet, sequin, shimmery, iridescent, rope, raffia, fringe, beading, and pleated items. Also ruffles, tulle, bikini top bodices, boob tubes, strapless styles, halter necks, liquid satin, sheer chiffons, and all sorts of mesh fabrics. Swirly patterns that remind you of water, and seaside patterns and accessories of fish, dolphins, seaweed, starfish, shells, oysters, anemones, mermaid tails, and coral are there too. Items like sarong skirts, sarong pants, glittery denim, slip skirts, slip dresses, and trumpet skirts are a nod to the fringe trend. Pearls are the gem of choice, and beachy waves in your hair is another part of the look.
To interpret the trend literally might not be your cup of tea, because the silhouettes can be tight, skimpy, sheer, and revealing. But remember that sheer fabrics, and open-weave crochet and mesh tops and skirts can be layered to create interesting effects. Vests can be layered over tees, blouses, and shirts. Slip dresses can be worn over tight tops or under jackets. And beach wear can be saved for beach, pool and resort wear settings.
Or alternatively, like me, you can focus on parts of the colour palette and wear it in ANY silhouette and pattern that tickles your fancy. Wear seaside jewellery like pearls, coral, shell necklaces, and beachy waves in your hair your way.
J. Crew and Elie Tahari did a marvelous job of interpreting Mermaidcore in a more relatable, casual, smart casual, and less revealing way. Here are some examples in the dead right palette.
In the first, a sequined vest is worn as a top over a liquid satin skirt. It’s completed with white wedge slides and a rope tote. A white bag to match the shoes would be fab too.
In the second example a crochet shell top is accompanied by a shell necklace and starfish bracelet. You can wear the combination with shorts, jeans, chinos, utility pants, or skirts.
Finally, a shiny ombré blazer is worn with a matching blouse to create a delicious twinset effect. It graces slim wide cropped jeans, and is completed with silver sandals and a shiny belt.
What are your thoughts on Mermaidcore?
