A mermaid dress has some of the most unique flair and beauty to it, but it still flies under a lot of people’s radar when it comes to picking out a dress. In this article, we’re going to explain what exactly a mermaid dress is, its iconic style, and how versatile it is as an outfit.
We’ll also take you through the different styles of mermaid dresses, from the classic fishtail to the recent, more modern interpretations, and how you can style each one to go perfectly with your body and aesthetic. If you have a special event coming up, you’ll want to have a mermaid dress on your list of outfits to consider.
What Defines a Mermaid Dress?
If you’ve seen a mermaid dress before, you’ll know that it’s instantly recognizable because of its silhouette.
It has a fitted bodice that hugs your curves tightly for a sleek look, and this is followed by the star of the dress; the skirt. This part of the dress flares out dramatically from the knee, sort of like the tail of a mermaid (hence the name). This makes for a truly spectacular look that’s unlike anything else.
As Sherri Hill’s experts explain, Mermaid dresses are typically made from fabrics like satin, lace, or tulle. These fabrics complement the way this dress drapes over your body, so you can’t go wrong with any of them. To add an extra bit of spark to it, a lot of mermaid dresses are dressed up with embellishments like sequins, beads, or (intricate) embroidery.
Depending on the occasion, you also have plenty of options for the neckline of a mermaid dress. The sweetheart neckline is a popular choice for anyone that wants a more feminine and romantic look, but there’s also the halter neckline which is more sensual and bold. If you want the classic option, go for a v-neckline that flatters pretty much any body type.
Mermaid Dress Styles
There are three main types of mermaid dresses, each one being best suited for a different occasion or season.
The first of these is the classic mermaid dress with a fitted bodice and a flared skirt that starts at the knee, making the traditional fishtail silhouette that we’ve come to know and love. The classic has always been a popular choice for formal events, so you can’t go wrong with it.
If you prefer a slightly wider skirt, you’ll want a trumpet mermaid dress. This style is almost the same as the classic mermaid but has a bit more room for movement. If you’ve tried a mermaid dress before and disliked the restrictiveness at the bottom, the trumpet might solve your problem. It’s also pretty easy to dress up or down.
Last but not least, there’s the modern take on the mermaid dress. This version usually has unique details or embellishments, like asymmetrical skirts, ruffles, or intricate lacework added to it. Modern mermaid dresses retain what makes this dress so special but with their own fresh and stylish take on top of it.
When to Wear Mermaid Dresses
Mermaid dresses are versatile enough to be worn for more or less any special occasion.
Weddings are usually where you’ll see a mermaid dress most commonly. A bridal mermaid dress can be absolutely stunning, especially if you go for a modern version of it with personalized lace and embellishments that make the dress truly your own. You can also opt for either a traditional white gown or a more colorful option to go with it.
Proms and formals are another excellent event to wear a mermaid dress at. We already know that the dress is good for a glamorous and suave look, but it’s also flexible enough to be worn at an event like this. Choose a bold color and add some details to it for a lasting impression.
The same goes for attending a cocktail party or similar special event; a mermaid dress can help you really stand out for the evening. For these events, we recommend a shorter hemline or a more casual fabric for a somewhat relaxed look.
The Mermaid’s Appeal
By now, you know more or less everything there is to know about mermaid dresses, their types, when to wear them, and how to style them. These dresses have always had a classic appeal with their unique silhouette, and we know that’s not going to change anytime soon.
If you like the classic fishtail shape or love more of the modern interpretations of it, you should absolutely give it a try for your next event.
