Dive Into Mermaidcore: The Enchanting Aesthetic Makes Waves
If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.
go mermaidcore if you’re feeling…
ethereal
enchanting
beachy
playful
mythological
timeline & influencers
early 2010s - although the Australian TV series “H2O: Just Add Water” ran from 2006-2010, it became a surprise hit when landing on Netflix
2023 had a mermaidcore resurgence with Disney's live-action The Little Mermaid movie
Dua Lipa became the queen of mermaidcore starring as Mermaid Barbie in the 2023 Barbie movie, subsequently wearing several haute couture mermaid-inspired dresses
Sandy Liang’s Spring 2024 New York Fashion Week show was inspired by mermaidcore
TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram see a resurgence of #mermaidcore every summer
Mermaidcore Aesthetic Gift Guide
Fishnet inspired dresses (wear this long crochet cover-up as a dress, Amazon)
Crochet beach cover-ups tops (CUPSHE women’s crochet crop top, Amazon)
Shell-adorned tops (seashell crochet halter crop top, Amazon)
Sea salt texturizing spray for hair (Beauty by Earth Ocean Waves tropical coconut spray, Amazon)
Hand chain jewelry (hand chain bracelet with CZ diamonds, Amazon)
Mermaid crown / tiara (starfish hairband, Amazon)
Iridescent face and body glitter (sequin and glitter body paint, Amazon)
Similar Trends
fairycore, coastal grandmother, sirencore
While mermaids have long held a place in folklore and popular culture, the mermaidcore aesthetic can be traced back to the early 2010s, when social media platforms like Tumblr and Instagram began to buzz with images of iridescent scales, seashells, and ethereal aquatic motifs. This trend drew inspiration from a variety of sources, including the enduring appeal of Disney's The Little Mermaid, the resurgence of mythological creatures in popular culture and on TV, and a growing appreciation for ocean-inspired aesthetics.
At its core, mermaidcore is a fusion of fantastical elements and real-world oceanic beauty. The primary influences that have shaped this aesthetic are multifaceted, ranging from mythological tales to contemporary environmental concerns. While the fantasy aspect can make it appear costume-esque at times, mermaidcore has high-fashion chops, with fashion houses Givenchy and Versace to Loewe creating designs for the aesthetic.
The enduring wardrobe appeal of mermaidcore
The mermaidcore aesthetic has stood the test of time, unlike many other trends that phased out fast. Likely because it taps into our collective fascination with the mysterious and enchanting world below the waves. Mermaidcore combines elements of fantasy, nature, and sustainability, making it appealing to those who desire a bit of whimsy and a sense of escapism. Additionally, it connects with people who seek ethical and eco-friendly fashion choices and a bond with the natural world.
Fashion Where Fantasy Meets Reality
Fashion:
Scale-like designs, fishnets, and iridescent fabrics: Sheer, sparkling, and mermaidcore go hand-in-hand as seen on Dua Lipa’s naked Bottega Veneta fishnet dress for the premiere of Barbie. Designers embrace innovative use of crystals and embellishments for the mermaidcore aesthetic with intricate, scale-like, and fishnet-inspired designs with iridescent fabrics.
Pieces with fantastical details: Flowing silhouettes that shimmer and sequin-adorned dresses with mermaid silhouettes (such as this Schiaparelli design worn by Dua Lipa at the 2024 Golden Globes).
Oceanic color palettes: From denim and tops embellished with seashell motifs to blue and green tone dresses.
Hair:
Long waves and beachy texture: Effortless grace and flow are hallmarks of a mermaid's tresses. Achieve long, beachy waves with sea salt texturizing spray.
Fantastical colors and intricate designs: Amp up hair with vibrant mermaid-inspired hair colors and intricate braids that can be adorned with seashells or pearls.
Makeup:
Dewy, sun-kissed skin: Apply dew drops on the skin with a tinted SPF moisturizer for a sun-kissed beach look, Add highlighter on the cheekbones for a sculpted yet glowing finish.
Shimmering eyes and lips: Select shimmering eyeshadows that mimic the iridescence of fish scales to glossy lips that evoke the luminous glow of the ocean's depths.
Accessories:
Layered jewelry: Evoke shipwreck treasure such as delicate gold necklaces with medallions and countless pearls. Shell necklaces create a more whimsical appeal. Body jewelry such as ankle bracelets, toe rings, chain ring bracelets, or hand chains.
Sustainably sourced mesh net bags: Leverage accessories for a sustainable fashion movement. Handbags and totes made from recycled materials, such as abandoned fishing nets and ocean plastics, add an ethical dimension to this trend.
Nails:
Nail art: Embrace the trend with designs featuring intricate scale patterns, seashell motifs, and mesmerizing holographic finishes.
Shimmering shades: Choose chrome and shimmer options or deep blues and greens to showcase the mystical depths of the sea.
Shop the Look
