A mermaid dress is a long gown that fits
snug to the body until the bottom of the legs, where it flares out like a fish
tail. For this reason, a mermaid gown is also called a fishtail dress. Since
mermaid dresses are always long, they tend to be made in styles suitable for
proms, weddings, and formal evening wear.
The flared fishtail section of a mermaid
dress often begins above the knees. The ruffle it creates is soft and flowing
if the dress is made from thinner fabric such as silk, satin, or taffeta. If
mermaid dresses are made from thicker material, the fishtail is stiffer. The
very shape of mermaid dresses — tight fitting to the figure until the flare at
the knee — gives the gown style a dramatic, glamorous look.
Mermaid dresses may have sequins or beading
accents. The colors and fabrics of mermaid gowns are endless. Pastel or
brightly colored mermaid gowns are often worn at high school proms. A black,
sequined, or metallic finished mermaid dress can make a striking evening gown.
Tall, thin figure types are best suited to
the mermaid style. This style fits close to the body and accentuates the waist
and hips, so it's not recommended for fuller figures. Since the mermaid dress
is fitted at the waist and flares out at the leg, it adds the look of curves to
lean and athletic body types.
Necklines vary widely in the mermaid type
of dress. They may be square, V neck, halter or sweetheart. A sweetheart
neckline dips slightly in the middle like the top of a heart. This type of neck
is the most common in a mermaid dress style.
Although many mermaid dress styles are
strapless, some have short, puffed sleeves or are long sleeved. Since the
mermaid style is so dramatic and glamorous, the accessories worn with it should
be also. For example, a fine chain necklace isn't going to add the impact
needed with this dress style; bolder necklaces such as elegant pearls would be
a better choice.
By eDressit
