Oceanic influences always make their way into summer attire, but Summer 2023 is officially the moment for #MermaidCore thanks to the release of the live-action The Little Mermaids starring Halle Bailey, along with other summer mermaid content like Dua Lipa as a Barbie mermaid in the upcoming Barbie movie and the animated film Ruby Gillman, Teenage Kraken.
So what is #MermaidCore, you may find yourself asking? Essentially it is anything that a mermaid would find incredibly fashionable, in or out of the water. Think cool tones, shimmery finishes, pearlescent materials, and plenty of seashells.
So ready to hop on the #MermaidCore trend? Here are 10 pieces that will have you looking like the star of the sea.
First thing’s first, you are going to need mermaid-worthy hair, and what is a better tool to achieve such a look than the aptly-named Mermade Hair waver tool? This hairstyling tool allows you to create those beachy waves with ease, and it comes with multiple heat settings so it can work with a variety of hair textures and types.
Bring beach style wherever you go this summer with this shell-beaded linen crop top from PatBO. It will look incredibly stylish on a tropical vacation when paired with billowing wide-leg pants, but I also think it is a fun statement piece to wear in an urban setting with classic slacks and an oversized blazer for great contrast.
Mermaids are known for their shimmering scales, so channel that look with an all-over glitter product that will leave you shimmering like the sea. Use it as an eyeshadow, highlighter, or accent.
Diaphanous fabrics and dangling ruffles are staples of the #MermaidCore trend. The chiffon tendrils of this Mach & Mach top resemble the tentacles of an octopus, and when you move it will look like you are making your way through calm ocean waters.
Pearls are the jewels of the sea, so it is only fitting that a pearl necklace is part of this trend. This necklace from Merchants Of The Sun modernizes the traditional pearl necklace by featuring a half-pearl, half-silver chain strand.
Is this not what Ariel would rock if she washed up on the shores of Ibiza? This crochet sarong from Edikted is such a fun way to accessorize your swimsuit, with tiny shells embellished into the material.
Give your nails the mermaid treatment with this quadrant of nail polishes from Lights Lacquer. Wear on their own or mix and layer them for a shimmering finish, and top things off with the seashell and sparkle charms for fun nail art.
Cult Gaia’s accessories are often inspired by natural forms, and this seashell clutch is no exception. The pearlescent finish makes it a great statement piece for any fashionable mermaid out of the water.
Adorn your ensemble with this Streets Ahead chain belt that features gold seashell charms. Whether styled over a swimsuit or a dress, this belt will give your outfit that perfect #MermaidCore finish.
Transform your eyes into a gorgeous seaside with this Urban Decay palette created in collaboration with Smiley®. The palette features mattes and shimmers for a buildable look, including a sparkling blue shade that looks like the most inviting waters ever.