The Mermaid style wedding dress is for the bride who want to show off her natural curves on the big day! This design is a very popular and flattering choice for brides of all sizes.
The mermaid is characterized by a fitted silhouette that tightly hugs the body from the chest down to the knees, where the skirt then flares out into a dramatic mermaid “tail”. The mermaid design fits like a glove!
Mermaid dresses are usually made in stiffer fabrics like lace, satin, tulle, and organza, and sometimes even crepe. Because of the flair required in the skirt, layers of crinoline may be sewn in underneath to keep the shape. Because of the softness of chiffon and charmeuse, mermaid dresses are not usually made in these fabrics.
It is a fun silhouette with a true wow factor! This style is especially flattering for the bride with an hourglass figure, 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.
Necklines Of Mermaid Style Dresses
We know the Mermaid silhouette comes in all formalities, from clean, simple, and classic to embellished and extravagant with intricate beading. They also come in all necklines! From high neck to deep V-plunge to the beautiful sweetheart neckline, you will find it the one you love!
Brides can also choose from different sleeve lengths including strapless, off-the-shoulder, and long sleeves to create a look that matches their personal preference and/or body type.
All three dresses shown above are designs from Kitty Chen Couture.
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, gloves, or statement jewelry to complete the bridal look.
Bustling A Mermaid Dress
The bustle is done at the top of where the skirt begins to flair and becomes even more dramatic! Your dress may need extra buttons if the train is cathedral length. A bridal seamstress will show you the ways your dress can be bustled and you can choose what you like best.
Mermaid vs. Trumpet Wedding Dresses
The main difference between a mermaid gown and a trumpet style gowns (also known as “fit and flare”) is that the mermaid pulls in tight at the knees resulting in a lower flare and a fuller, more voluminous skirt. Mermaid wedding dresses are also much tighter designs and really hug the curves of the body.
The trumpet style is also tight fitting, however has a higher and more gentle flaring of the skirt for a softer look. This is illustrated below:
Notice the Mikado dress on the left is tighter at the knees and flares out. The lace dress on the right is tighter mid with much less flare.
Remember:
- For petite brides (under 5’4″), consider wearing heels. If too much of the mermaid skirt needs to be hemmed off, the look won’t be as proportioned.
- 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.
Mermaid wedding gowns are the perfect choice for brides going for a glamorous vibe or a lavish affair! With its fitted silhouette and dramatic mermaid tail, it’s sure to make a lasting impression on guests and create unforgettable wedding photos.
Bridal Gowns For Your Special Day
When searching for the gown you will wear on your wedding day, you will be faced with many options. We know it can be confusing! Darianna Bridal & Tuxedo has many guides all in one place to help you navigate the planning and decision making process. There are many ways to incorporate your personal style with your wedding dress, venue and theme! It is such an exciting time when you get engaged, so make sure to read all you can to be informed and know what to expect. Have a question for us? Let us know, we are always happy to answer!