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We’ve been wanting to be ~part of your a mermaid’s world~ for a while now, so naturally we’ve started dressing like the majestic sea creatures in real time. Mermaidcore is officially back, baby! The trend initially gained traction on TikTok and on red carpets thanks to the release of Disney’s live-action The Little Mermaid back in May 2023, and I’m delighted to let you know that it is still going strong for Summer 2024. Expecting the aesthetic to be reminiscent of the mermaid tails from the film? You might be surprised to see that over the years mermaidcore has grown legs of its own, becoming a super chic, wearable vibe.
From a range of warm sunset tones and iridescent, ocean-inspired hues to shimmering, scale-like fabrics and golden, sandy textures—don’t be surprised if mermaidcore is all you see everyone wearing this summer. For those who plan to be on a tropical vacation, you’ll fit right in. And if you don’t have any vacay plans in the books yet, don’t worry. There are tons of ways to subtly incorporate the look into your everyday wardrobe (sans shell bra).
Give us pearls! Scalloped edges! Seashell shoes and starfish bracelets! Ahead, our 16 favorite wardrobe additions that fit the mermaidcore trend.
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these beach-ready sandals
Larroude Madison Flat In Ivory Leather
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these beach-ready sandals
Larroude Madison Flat In Ivory Leather
Shoe designer Marina Larroude dreamt up these shoes exclusively for Rosewood Le Guanahani (a luxury resort in St. Barths, NBD) and they’re bringing alllll of the mermaidcore vibes. Both the flats and the wedges are dotted with gold seashell detailing and come in a handful of stunning colorways inspired by the oceanic hotel. They're the ideal lightweight sandal to toss into your stuffed-to-the-brim Europe carry-on (IYKYK) and, of course, the ultimate St. Barths souvenir.
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this fishnet pullover
& Other Stories x Susan Fang Beaded Crochet Top
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this fishnet pullover
& Other Stories x Susan Fang Beaded Crochet Top
If by “thing-a-ma-bobs” you mean reasons to wear this sweater, then yes, I’ve got plenty! Throw the loose knit over a swimsuit and you’ve got instant mermaidcore.
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this oceanic charm necklace
Notte Meet Me In Roma Necklace
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this oceanic charm necklace
Notte Meet Me In Roma Necklace
This gold necklace is worth the splurge. It’s the ultimate piece of charm jewelry that encapsulates the playfulness of the seaside aesthetic—it’s surprisingly wearable whether you’re living in bikinis on vacay or just leaving the house to run errands.
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this ruffled sundress
Kimchi Blue Ilana Mesh Drapey Mini Dress
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this ruffled sundress
Kimchi Blue Ilana Mesh Drapey Mini Dress
Obsessed with the fact that the asymmetrical ruffles on this teal sundress look like cascading waterfalls? Yeah, same. It’s the colorful boost of serotonin my wardrobe needs ASAP.
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this water droplet purse
Nina Shoes Allie Navy Bag
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this water droplet purse
Nina Shoes Allie Navy Bag
This aquatic purse will do nicely for any occasion where you need a bag that’s cute but also has enough space to hold more than a lipstick. The blue ombre droplet gems on this bag look totally drippy and give off a just-stepped-out-of-the-ocean vibe.
If you’re headed to a night out or a special event where you’re wanting to make a statement—this pearl chain necklace will do just that.
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Forget LBDs, this season we are going for alllll the blue dresses. This midi sequin one will make a splash at any event (pun intended).
Although this is technically a cover-up, we won’t say anything if you decide to wear it to dinner. It’s a lovely shade and the twist detail gives a bit of mystique only a gorge mermaid could (that’s you).
These sweet shell bracelets are a way to wear the trend without it being too costume-y. Wear one on your wrist or create a fun stack filled with other gold items—the choice is yours!
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Bahia Maria La Joya Shell Underwire Bikini Swim Top
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Bahia Maria La Joya Shell Underwire Bikini Swim Top
Hear me out: I know you’re probably not going to be wearing this bb to go over to your parents’ house, but I’m begging someone to wear it. (Okay fine I’ll do it.) It’s just too beautiful not to include.
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Iridescent sequins are here to save the day and bring back the Aquamarine styles we know and love.
Hannah Oh
Assistant Shopping Editor
Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.
Daisy Maldonado
Associate Shopping Editor
Daisy Maldonado is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan who loves writing about fashion trends, must-have beauty products, and digital culture. When she's not writing, you can almost certainly find her shopping (she knows her credit card numbers by heart) or obsessing over celebrity news. Although she’s acquired an extensive closet over the years, her favorite item she owns is a Harry Styles Love On Tour hoodie she purchased at his concert in Manchester. Daisy's work has appeared on Refinery29, The Daily Beast, E! News, Allure and more. Keep up with all of her chaotic travels, NYC life and fashionable moments on her Instagram.