PARTY QUEEN / Apr 22, 2022

FIVE MERMAID STYLE PROM DRESSES WE LOVE (PLUS STYLING TIPS!)

Mermaid-style prom dresses are the perfect combination of sexy and elegant. We couldn't be more excited that you're considering this silhouette for your prom.

Mermaid-style dresses are characterized by a fitted style that hugs the body and flares at or below the knee—creating a mermaid-like "tail." If you're looking to flaunt your curves and accentuate an hourglass shape, this dress is perfect for your prom look.

We've seen our fair share of mermaid-style prom dresses. Today, we're sharing five of our favorites and styling tips to nail your prom look.

1. Sweetheart dress with off-the-shoulder sleeves

Looking for a mermaid-style prom dress that's sexy, striking, and feminine—all in one? Then look no further. From the cut and neckline to the fabric and embellishments, this dress has it all.

Let's first talk about the neckline and sleeves. We love when we see sweetheart necklines paired with off-the-shoulder sleeves. It's effortlessly romantic. Leave your neck bare if you want to show off your collarbone and shoulders. Or, you can style this dress with a short necklace.

As you can see, this dress also dials up the sex appeal with a sheer bodice, lace-up back, and high slit. Remember, skirts with high slits will put your feet on display, so don't forget to wear a showstopping pair of metallic heels!

We also love this dress for its delicate embroidery and sequin embellishments on the skirt—it's unlike any other. If you're looking for a mermaid-style dress that'll make you stand out, this one is for you.

Take a look at this blog for more showstopping prom looks.

Get the look: style GL3024 | Sheer Bodice Cut-Away Shoulder Lace-Up Back Sequin Prom Dress w/ Leg Slit

2. Gray dress with feathers and silver sparkle

If you're off to a fire and ice-themed prom, this mermaid-style dress will surely make you gleam! Silver and gray are hot hues this season—and totally capture the "ice" aspect of a fire and ice-themed prom.

What do we also love about this dress? All the details! From the feathered shoulders to the glitter and sequins—this mermaid-style dress will keep all eyes on you. Here's an extra styling tip: add a detachable mesh cape. You can walk into prom night looking like a royal—but take it off once you hit the dance floor!

This dress is very decorative, so we recommend keeping your chest and neck bare of any jewelry. Throw your hair up or pin it back to show off your beautiful face. Complete the look with some sparkly shoulder-grazing earrings.

Getting a manicure and pedicure? Keep it sleek with french tips or a white shade.

Get the look: style GL3047 | Feather-Shoulder Embellished Glitter Mermaid Dress w/ Mesh Layer Drape

3. Mesh dress with detachable layers and 3D appliqué

If you want to make a statement with your mermaid-style prom dress, then you need to add some texture to your look.

Where do you start? Let's talk about embroidery first. While many girls will wear a dress decorated with subtle embroidery, like lace, we recommend a bolder type of embroidery, like appliqué. Appliqué is a textile art form in which one fabric is decoratively stitched on top of another. This stitching technique typically creates bold patterns with a 3D effect. (Did we mention it's a hot prom style right now?)

Another way to add texture (and volume) to your dress is by adding mesh skirt layers. While mermaid-style dresses are form-fitting, this adds a whimsical feel to your look and accentuates your hourglass shape. Win-win!

The texture doesn't stop at the dress. Instead of a sleek updo, style your hair in loose curls to round out this look.

Get the look: style GL3011 | Rhinestone Embellished Mesh Mermaid Dress w/ 3-D Flower and Detached Layer

4. Dusty rose dress with floral embroidery

Mermaid-style prom dresses are naturally feminine. If you're headed to a Parisian-themed prom, then this dusty rose gown is for you.

Dusty rose has been a trending color for several years now—and we're not mad about it. It's elegant, romantic, and flattering on any skin tone. Plus, it pairs perfectly with floral embroidery. This is no time to hide your femininity, ladies!

The opportunities to style this mermaid-style prom dress are endless. Accentuate your womanly curves with a jeweled belt. Or, sweep your hair to the side and wear some chic earrings.

For this look, it's a good idea to match your clutch to your dress. Rose gold would be the perfect pick.

Get the look: style GL2889 | Floral Embroidery Glitter Mesh Mermaid Long Dress w/ Jeweled Waist Band

5. Halter dress with cut-outs and patterns

Mermaid-style dresses are all over the red carpet. Whether you're going to a Hollywood-themed prom or simply want to channel your inner J.Lo, this tiffany halter dress was made for you.

We see many girls rocking strapless dresses or spaghetti straps. Why not rock a neckline that's different from the rest? Halter necklines are ultra-chic—and elongate the body when paired with a mermaid silhouette. What's not to love?

Cutouts are an edgy way to dial up the sex appeal if you still want to show some skin. This dress features a cutout in the front of the bodice—and the back!

Speaking of edgy, choose a dress with a decorative pattern. In a sea of solid colors, you're bound to stand out. Finish this red carpet look with a bold lip and a high ponytail.

tiffany halter neckline mermaid mesh long dress

Get the look: style GL2330 | Full Beaded Halter Neck Illusion Top Dress with Open Back

Need a mermaid-style prom dress to fit a specific theme? 🧜‍♀️

While we noted some prom themes above, you may be headed to a different themed prom. No problem—we've considered them all! Take a look at these blog posts to find the perfect mermaid-style dress for your prom theme!