The sun-kissed days of summer 2026 are here, and with them comes the latest fashion trend: mermaidcore. This captivating aesthetic is not just about beachwear; it's an invitation to channel your inner mermaid and soak up the glamour of a seaside escape, minus the hassle of actual ocean waves.
The essence of mermaidcore lies in its sophisticated take on ocean-inspired style, ditching literal costume interpretations for something more refined. At Matthieu Blazy's recent Chanel show in Biarritz, sea anemone embroidery, seahorse jewellery, and dresses crafted from seafoam sequins stole the spotlight. The result is a look that echoes the elegance of sipping rosé by the ocean – not Ariel cosplay.
A grown-up mermaid look requires a certain je ne sais quoi: slinky silhouettes that favour narrower dresses or long skirts over airy kaftans or maxidresses. Swap sporty beach shorts for palazzo pants, which fit snugly at the hip before falling wide to the floor – perfect for lounging, not high-energy activities. For those who need a more practical approach, incorporate fishing-net mesh or crochet into shorter cover-ups and add a touch of glamour with a shell necklace.
The key to avoiding mermaidcore's pitfalls lies in restraint. Avoid over-accessorising with pearls and sparkles – it's all too easy to end up looking like you're straight from a gift shop display. Instead, opt for artfully faded shades that evoke the ocean's hues: washed-out blues, green-tinted turquoises, pale aqua slip dresses, or sheer shirts in lagoon blue or seafoam green. Texture is just as important, with crochet, mesh, raffia, and subtle shimmer all capturing the seaside essence without being too on-the-nose.
When it comes to footwear, jelly shoes are making a comeback – and for good reason. These versatile sandals navigate rock pools and sandy shores with ease while still exuding style. It's no wonder they're the perfect fit for mermaidcore, which champions that effortless elegance and ocean-inspired beauty we all crave during summer.