Choose the Right Mermaid Dress Based on Your Body Type

It’s a fish, it’s a boat, it’s a GORGEOUS LADY IN ABSOLUTELY STUNNING MERMAID DRESS! Every girl has at least once thought of becoming a mermaid (or wish they were).

However, thanks to the laws of nature, it just isn’t possible but that doesn’t mean you cannot look equally majestic, if not more. All you need are the right Mermaid Style Dresses .

But how do you go about choosing the right one? Let us help you choose the right mermaid dresses for each body type. We will go over different body types and dress styles to make the decision easier and stress-free.

Let’s dive (no pun intended) into the ocean of style!

History of Mermaid Style Dress

Now, hold on, you gorgeous mermaid. Stop imagining the future for a second, and come with us because we are taking you to the fashion history class.

While the myth of mermaids has been around for centuries now, the fashion industry observed this style in the early 1900s.

The origin of modern mermaid gowns can be traced back to the 1930s, when Marcel Rochas, a French designer, showcased his fresh designs in Paris. However, the true popularity of this style wouldn’t happen until the 1950s.

Once Irving Penn, an American photographer, captured his wife wearing Rocha's design, it caught the attention of Hollywood. From then onwards, this style has been quite popular.

There you have it, the shortest history class ever!

Key Characteristics of a Mermaid Dress

Before you jump into different body styles, it is important to understand some of the main features of mermaid dresses.

• Silhouette

As the name suggests, this style resembles a dress, being fitted at the top and flaring out at the bottom. It goes without saying, but it highlights your curves (and breaks some necks). Also, now if somebody tries to trick you by offering you a long bodycon dress as a mermaid style, you’ll know.

• Fabric

While depending on the designer and personal choice, these gowns can be made out of different fabrics. However, the most common types of fabric used for such dresses are satin, lace, tulle, and organza. Also, certain fabrics can be combined together to create a unique look.

• Neckline

This is perhaps the only variable feature of this style. The neckline can drastically change depending on the designer, and if you have a staples dress, well, that’s a sexy neckline.

• Train

While usually reserved for wedding dresses, you can also add a train to your mermaid dress. It can either be long or short and will add a layer of sophistication to the dress.

Reasons to Wear Mermaid Dresses

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Well, you’ve already made up your mind to go with this style; however, we’re still going to tell you some pros!

• The Shape

This is one of the best reasons to wear mermaid dresses. These nicely highlight your best features and make you have an hourglass shape. Thanks to their snugly fit.

• Versatility

This style of dress can be paired with almost every kind of accessory to achieve a unique look. Also, as mentioned before, the wide range of fabrics can help you choose a particular texture.

• Attention

If you are an introvert, don’t wear this style because when you rock a mermaid style dress, you will draw much attention. Therefore, you better be prepared to take compliments throughout the night.

Reasons to Avoid Mermaid Dresses

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Now, before you go, “I will ONLY wear a mermaid dress.” You should know that there are some downsides to it.

• Restrictive Movement

If you think you can move like a fish in a mermaid dress, you wouldn’t be wrong. But you’ll be moving like a seahorse rather than a sailfish. Thanks to the same features that highlight your curves, it will restrict your movement as well.

• Over-powering

While it is a great feeling to be the center of attention for your unique style and looks, it can be too much for certain events. Let’s say you are attending a wedding. You never, and we mean NEVER, want to dress in a way that’ll take attention off the bride. So, mermaid dresses are not for every event.

• Uncomfortable

To no one’s surprise, these dresses are very uncomfortable. Did we mention that these dresses basically cook you up? So, if you are going to an outdoor event in summer, well, we’ll miss you.

How to Choose the Right Dress for Your Body Type

Well, you can simply choose by trying different dresses! Just kidding. First, determine your body type. From there, you can choose what type of dress will work best for you!

• Hourglass Shape

If you are built like an hourglass, stop reading. In fact, stop thinking. Just go ahead and rock any mermaid style you like. You’ll look STUNNING! Just one point to remember: choose a dress that complements your curves.

• Pear Shape

Now, pear-shaped ladies out there, you’d need to think about your outfit a little more. Because mermaid style is designed to highlight your curves, especially hips, and you are already blessed with quite the buns. So, focus on dresses that have patterns or volume in the upper section to create a balanced look.

• Apple Shape

We want to create an illusion, ladies. But don’t worry, you don’t have to go into magic classes just need a fitted bodice and flared skirt. Doing so will help you create a balanced look that’ll highlight your best features.

• Rectangular Shape

Just because we don’t have naturally curvy shapes doesn’t mean we cannot look majestic in a mermaid dress. Simply go with dresses with volume at both the upper and lower sections to create an illusion of curves.

Other Considerations

While your body shape is the ultimate deciding factor, there are other factors that you should consider when choosing the dress.

• Fabric

Depending on the weather and your comfort level, you can opt for classic fabric like lace or go with satin or tulle as well.

• Venue

Where you will be going also plays a major role when it comes to choosing the right dress. Wearing a mermaid dress with a train wouldn’t be right at an office party.

Go Forth in Style, You Little Mermaid

We just want to say that choosing the right dress is a complex and long process that requires patience and time. Therefore, don’t be disheartened if you can’t finalize your ideal outfit right away.

Also, never be afraid to make some alterations to make the dress fit you.

Happy styling!