Mermaid Wedding Dresses

The “look-at-me” mermaid wedding dress is about as high drama as it gets. Its flattering, fitted silhouette hugs the body from chest to knees contouring every curve like a second skin, then flares at the bottom to simulate a mermaid fin. Mermaid dresses not only flatter and flaunt perfectly balanced hourglass shapes, the flared puddle punctuates the look like an exclamation point emphasizing the “S” curve for anyone who missed it (they didn’t). It’s a lot to take in at once, but that the point — the mermaid is meant to drop jaws. Here are 5 things to keep in mind when shopping mermaid wedding dresses:

1. Silhouette
   Mermaid silhouettes are for curvy, confident brides who want to make an entrance. If you’ve got it, flaunt it! The fitted, elongating shape shows off your sexy curves while the dramatic flare adds a touch of feminine whimsy. It’s a statement-making shape that is meant to turn heads. As an alternative, an A-line style dress is just as classic but more subtle. It tapers to the waist only, then gently drapes to the floor with moderate skirt volume. The shape is less restrictive which allows more movement, plus it’s camouflaging for brides who have unbalanced proportions top and bottom. Both are elegant, timeless options that are equally gorgeous, they just suit different shapes.

2. Fabric
   Mermaid dresses are notorious for being difficult to move in. Traditionally they are made from woven fabrics like lace, taffeta and satin, all of which have no “give” to their fabrication. With the mermaid’s exacting, form-fitting design that tapers to the knee, walking can be more of a waddle than stride in such stiff fabric. Less ornate but just as gorgeous, crepe and knit jersey (poly/spandex) mermaid dresses are easier to move in and a great alternative for more relaxed, understated events. Their clean lines, smooth fabric and sophisticated simplicity make for a sleek, modern look.

   Above all, mermaid dresses must fit like a glove. Schedule an extra fitting if necessary to ensure that perfect fit!

3. Season
   In winter, think materials like lace, taffeta and satin, with accents like tulle, crystals and appliqués. This is the season to consider a long-sleeved mermaid dress, or to add extra drama with a statement sleeve and low, open back.

   Sweetheart and strapless styles are perfect for showcasing décolletage and are fun, flirty looks for outdoor weddings in spring and summer. Always remember plunging V-necks emphasize nipped in waists, as do three-quarter length sleeves.

4. Venue
   There are mermaid dresses for every occasion from black tie to beach weddings. For formal events, dramatic styles with more volume and fabric are appropriate. In fact, the more formal, the more ornate the dress so don’t hold back on a statement train or beaded, crystal or lace embellishments for urban weddings or stately, grand destination venues.

   Mermaid styles are just as chic for understated weddings. Look for materials like crepe, silk and poly/spandex for fluid styles with more movement, but the same showstopping silhouette. The clean, minimalist lines are sophisticated, timeless and still deliver on drama.

5. Flattery
   If you’re an hourglass shape, this is your silhouette. Mermaid dresses put everything on display so if you have equal proportions top and bottom and a bold personality, this style is for you. However if your shape is unbalanced above or below the waist, shop other silhouettes until you find one that complements and balances your natural assets. Remember the “perfect” wedding dress is the one that flatters your shape best, so keep trying until you find it!

See Brides.com press feature here.