The ocean’s allure has long captivated the fashion world. Its shimmering depths, vibrant marine life, and mythical symbolism provide a deep well of inspiration. From ancient civilizations adorning themselves with seashells to contemporary runways graced with designs inspired by sea goddesses, designers have consistently looked to the sea to stir their imaginations.
This season, the trend is surging once again, and it’s every bit as playful as before. Designers like Oceanus, Oséree, and Rat & Boa are fully embracing the aquatic aesthetic. Rat & Boa’s latest jewelry collection, for example, gleams with shell charms in marine-inspired colors, while Rixo and Clio Peppiatt’s glistening dresses seem conjured straight from an underwater fairy tale.
So, when—and how—does one channel her inner siren? My favorite time to dive into this trend (pun fully intended) is during summer, especially while traveling. I love slipping on my starfish-embroidered sandals or seashell earrings for a dinner by the shore. However, this aesthetic is by no means confined to vacations. You can subtly incorporate oceanic touches into everyday outfits—consider nautilus shell earrings to style with your minimalist swimwear looks, or a seahorse-motif necklace to pair with a satin maxi dress for elegant evening dinners.
Whether you’re plunging headfirst into the fantasy or just dipping your toes in, this is a trend that invites you to be bold. Read on to discover the sea-inspired pieces that are sure to bring an unexpected edge to your summer looks.
Mermaidcore Jewelry
Whether you prefer delicate seashell earrings or a striking turquoise necklace, these sparkling treasures will perfectly complement any vacation or evening outfit.
Jennifer Behr Coquina Necklace
Kara Yoo Seahorse Necklace on Raw Silk
BaubleBar Nixie Seashell Earrings
Now 14% Off
Jennifer Behr Roma Necklace
Kendra Scott Alexa Gold Statement Charm Necklace
At Present Mermaid Pendant
Awe Inspired Starfish Pearl Earrings
Glimmering Aquatic Attire
To channel a mermaid-inspired look, opt for sequins that shimmer like sunlight on ocean waves. These artfully embroidered dresses are nothing short of enchanting.
Bananhot Liz Sequined Knitted Halterneck Top
Leslie Amon Beaded Seashore Mini Dress
Simkhai Lollie Embellished Mini Dress
Retrofête Joy Sequin Top
Clio Peppiatt Bluebell Bead-Embellished Stretch-Tulle Mini Dress
Rixo Christabel Sequined Minidress
Meshki Ellington Knit Maxi Dress With Sequins
Monday Swimwear Catania Dress
Nensi Dojaka Sequined Minidress
Siren-Approved Shoes
Sure, mermaids might not need shoes—but that doesn’t mean you can’t indulge. From Aquazzura’s breathtaking, starfish-adorned sandals to simple, sleek metallic heels, these mesmerizing styles bring the fantasy to dry land.
Aquazzura Reef Star 65 Leather Sandals
Open Edit Jamie Block Heel Sandal
Boohoo Embellished Starfish Toe Post Heeled Mules
Now 60% Off
Sergio Rossi 90mm Mermaid Sandals
Versace Underwater Barocco La Medusa Sandals
Gianvito Rossi Regina Heel
Jeffrey Campbell Fishy Slides
Cult of Coquette Goldie Clear Drip Chandelier Open Toe Mules
Reformation Waldena Block Heeled Mule
INGILIZ Athena 02 Silver Embossed Leather Mules
Enchanting Swimwear and Coverups
Swimwear is where you can take the most literal approach—after all, you’ll actually be in the water. Think shimmering one-pieces or shell-shaped bikini tops that perfectly capture the aquatic aesthetic.
LSPACE Sunrise Seashell Bikini Top
LSPACE Lucia Bitsy Bikini Bottom
ViX Swimwear Belle Short Cover Up
Oséree Lumière Shell Metallic Bikini
Oséree Lumière Metallic Pareo
Asta Resort Lio Bikini Top- Aqua Sequin
Asta Resort Lio Bikini Bottom – Aqua Sequin
Oceanus Selene Seashell One Piece Swimsuit
BOAMAR x Revolve Liv One Piece
Shop More Mermaidcore Must-Haves
Versace Icons De La Mer Necklace
Now 30% Off
Mayol x Oceanus Brass Pendant Necklace
Now 25% Off
Ferragamo Oceani di Seta Eau de Parfum
Sergio Rossi Mermaid Crystal-Embellished Clutch Bag
Now 25% Off
Lovers and Friends Isolde Top
Lovers and Friends Isolde Maxi Skirt
Maison Francis Kurkdjian Aqua Media Cologne Forte
Neen Pretty Shady Pressed Pigment Trio
Now 20% Off
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