Call or Text: 215-491-8500
Call or Text: 215-491-8500

What is a Mermaid Style Wedding Dress?

A mermaid style wedding dress is for brides who want to show off their curves on their big day! This design is a very popular and flattering choice for brides of all sizes.

The mermaid style is characterized by a fitted silhouette that hugs the body from the chest down to the knees or mid-thighs, where the skirt flares out into a dramatic mermaid “tail”.

Mermaid dresses are usually made in stiffer fabrics like lace and satin, and sometimes even crepe. Because of the flair required in the skirt, layers of crinoline are sewn in underneath to keep the shape. Not all fabrics, such as charmeusse and chiffon, can hold the mermaid shape as well. For these, you might consider adding a crinoline slip or petticoat to wear for shape and volume.

Mermaid dresses are elegant and sophisticated, and look and are made in all necklines as well.

This style is especially flattering for brides with hourglass figures, as they accentuate the curves in all the right places. They can also help create the illusion of curves for brides with straighter body types. However, this style is not nearly as comfortable or easy to move around in as other wedding dress styles, due to its form-fitting nature.

Kitty Chen Avera mermaid wedding dress
Fully beaded with an organza ruffled skirt

Mermaid dresses come in a variety of styles, from simple and classic to embellished and extravagant. Some feature plunging necklines or open backs, while others are adorned with intricate beading or lace appliques. Brides can also choose from different sleeve lengths including strapless, cap, and long, to create a look that matches their personal preference and/or body type.

Mermaid style wedding dresses are a popular choice for both traditional and modern weddings. They offer a timeless yet contemporary look that can be dressed up or down depending on the bride’s preferences. They can also be paired with a variety of accessories, such as a veil, belt, or statement jewelry to complete the bridal look. The bustle is done at the top of where the skirt flairs and becomes even more dramatic! Try on a mermaid to see if it’s for you.

Remember two things:

  1. If you’re petite (under 5’4″), you will want to consider wearing heels. If too much of the skirt needs to be hemmed off, the look won’t be as proportioned.
  2. It is a tight-fitting dress so it can restrict mobility and movement. If you’re going to be ballroom dancing at your reception, this is not the style dress to do that in.

This style is the perfect choice for brides going for a glamorous vibe! With its fitted silhouette and dramatic mermaid tail, it’s sure to make a lasting impression on guests and create unforgettable wedding photos.