The Little Mermaid: Our top picks for the mermaidcore aesthetic making waves on TikTok

11/06/2023
Lana Andelane

Composite of products mentioned in the article against swirly blue background with image of Halle Bailey as Ariel — Time to dive in to the latest 'core micro-trend making waves on TikTok. Photo credit: Photo illustration - Newshub; Images - Walt Disney Pictures, respective brands

Unless you've been living under a rock, you'll likely know that the live-action remake of The Little Mermaid is making waves online for its updated retelling of the classic Disney tale, primarily for its watershed casting of Black actress Halle Bailey as the titular mermaid, Ariel.

The film has also given rise to a new addition to TikTok's repertoire of 'core' micro-trends: move over, Barbiecore and cottagecore - the tides are changing.

More from Newshub

Photo composite of items featured in the wrap against black and white abstract background

Winter wardrobe: Our top staple and statement picks to spice up your style this season

Compilation of Barbie paparazzi shots of Margot Robbie and fashion items against a pink background

Barbiecore: How to dress like a Barbie girl in a Barbie world

Mermaidcore, an aquatic aesthetic inspired by the resurgence of under-the-sea fantasy, has made quite a splash on runways and red carpets alike in recent times. Drawing inspiration from Ariel's ethereal, otherworldly underwater kingdom, the trend utilises sequins, shimmer and metallic sheen to mimic the lacquered shine of wet scales and mother of pearl iridescence.

Details such as scalloping, seashells, pearls, crochet, fishtail hems and aquatic-themed prints and motifs lean into marine life, while ruffles, slinky, silky fabrics and body-skimming silhouettes represent the gentle roll of waves and fluidity of water.

Alternatively, you can play into Ariel's status as the merfolk's princess with soft, floaty shapes, tulle skirts, drapery, fitted corset bodices and jewel tones.

Halle Bailey attends the UK premiere of Disney's 'The Little Mermaid' at Odeon Luxe Leicester Square in London, United Kingdom on May 15, 2023. Photo credit: Getty Images

Of course, colour is an important element of the mermaidcore aesthetic: drench yourself in the colour spectrum of the deep sea, such as ocean blues, seafoam green, aquamarine and violet purple. The colour palette also plays into Ariel's signature style: a purple bikini top and her iconic iridescent blue-green tail and fins.

At the time of writing, #mermaidcore has amassed more than 259.6 million views on TikTok alone, while in the latter half of May - ahead of and coinciding with The Little Mermaid's release on May 25 - Pinterest searches for 'mermaidcore' skyrocketed by 614 percent.

A recent analysis of Google data also found that searches for 'mermaid style' have risen 736 percent worldwide in the past year, while in May, searches for 'shell bikini' and 'purple bikini' - Ariel's signature styles - had increased by 244 percent and 311 percent respectively in the month prior.

Sure, the fun and fantastical element of mermaidcore isn't exactly for everyone, but there are simple ways to incorporate nods to the trend in everyday outfits. Pearl and seashell accessories have been everywhere, from fast-fashion chains to fashion houses, and have become a street style staple in recent months. If you want to dip your toes in, jewellery is an easy way to lean into the trend - without donning a fishtail skirt and clam-style bikini. Otherwise, think halter tops, raffia bags and crochet for subtle maritime touches.

With that being said, whether you're dipping your toes in or diving head-first, we've curated a selection of mermaidcore-themed pieces and accessories to help you incorporate the trend into your wardrobe.