Let’s do a a quick masterclass on wedding dress silhouettes. In particular: mermaid dresses.
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Do you remember in the early 2000’s and 2010’s, when mermaid dresses were in? (Think Amy Adams, a la the “Enchanted” red carpet — or Taylor Swift in 2013, below.) Mermaid silhouettes are a dramatic, wow moment. But…
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Might they look a little dated, today?
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At Grace + Ivory, we believe in empowering you with the knowledge to make an informed choice that reflects your unique style. That’s why this comprehensive guide will break down exactly what a mermaid dress is — and how you can now find slightly more wearable, updated silhouettes in our bridal shop!
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Scroll down to learn more.
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Amy Adams and Taylor Swift in mermaid gowns on the red carpet, circa early 2000s. These photos do not belong to Grace + Ivory.
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What is a mermaid silhouette?
Mermaid dresses are designed to accentuate your natural figure, and make your figure even MORE dramatic! The signature trait of a mermaid skirt is that it hugs your hips, then begins to flare outwards as the skirt approaches the floor. The key distinguishing factor is the placement on your body of where the flare begins.
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The placement of the “flare” can influence everything from movement to overall aesthetic!
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The “traditional” mermaid silhouette of the earlier 2000’s is characterized by its form-fitting design that hugs the body from the bust all the way down to the knee (or just below it). At this point, the skirt dramatically flares out, resembling…
The “traditional” mermaid silhouette of the earlier 2000’s is characterized by its form-fitting design that hugs the body from the bust all the way down to the knee (or just below it). At this point, the skirt dramatically flares out, resembling…
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You guess it: a mermaid’s tail.
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This style is known for creating a very bold and glamorous look, creating an hourglass figure.
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Here’s the thing: while stunning, the dramatic flare at a lower point can sometimes restrict movement, making it challenging to walk, sit, or dance comfortably at your wedding.
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(Sure a mermaid is great for a red carpet… but what about walking around to greet your guests?!)
That’s why our team has created a few updated versions of the mermaid silhouette.
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At Grace + Ivory, our designers focused on creating a few different silhouettes that still create an hourglass figure — but with the “flare” happening earlier. This earlier release allows for greater ease of movement and a softer, more flowing transition from the fitted bodice to the skirt.
At Grace + Ivory, our designers focused on creating a few different silhouettes that still create an hourglass figure — but with the “flare” happening earlier. This earlier release allows for greater ease of movement and a softer, more flowing transition from the fitted bodice to the skirt.
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Scroll down to learn more!
Scroll down to learn more!
Our take on a “modern” mermaid wedding dress
At Grace + Ivory, we offer a spectrum of silhouettes in our wedding gowns, ranging from more subtle/understated… to more dramatic:
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- The “fit and flare” style — A simple silhouette that complements your natural curves. The fabric in this style is meant to settle along your body, making this style more understated and very wearable (especially when compared to the traditional heavy mermaid styles from the red carpet above)!
- The “trumpet” style — A silhouette that fits snugly through the bodice, waist, and hips. The flare begins typically around mid-thigh.
- The “mermaid” style — Our own, in-house interpretation of today’s modern mermaid style! This is all about accentuating the booty and rocking with it.
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Scroll down to shop these 3 silhouettes!
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AdeOla Wedding Dress: “Fit and flare” Silhouette
*Photos by Jenny B. Photography
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Introducing the AdeOla. Let’s kick off with this sleek wedding gown, which features a high neckline, a flowing train!
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This gown has what we call a “fit and flare” style. As you can see from the photos above, the crepe material is designed to settle along your waist and hips, following your natural curve. The skirt then flares gently outward for that feminine shape.
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This silhouette is more subtle and understated than the traditional “mermaid” — which means it is more classic.
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(Pssst: The AdeOla also features an intricate beaded back for a gorgeous look when you’re walking down the aisle!)
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The Jessie Wedding Dress: “Trumpet” Silhouette
Photos by The Branding Babe
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The next step in terms of drama? Our Jessie wedding dress!
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This dress has what we call a “trumpet” silhouette, which means the dress hugs your thighs and then loosens out is a slightly in a more emphasized manner (compared to the “fit and flare” style above).
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The modern square neckline and matching crepe belt detail provide a contemporary edge, while trumpet silhouette accentuates your shape beautifully. (But if you want a touch of something that won’t got out of style, this dress also has lace and button back details for that classic look.)
The Itzel Wedding Dress: A Modern “Mermaid” Silhouette
Last but not least is a brand new wedding dress that’s not even on the website yet… introducing the Itzel!
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This wedding gown, as you can see (from the behind-the-scenes, sneak peek photos above) is all about the booty. The shape of this dress hugs your waist, hips and upper thighs, creating a really great shape for that extra femininity. Plus — the long train adds extra dramaaa for the walk down the aisle.
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(P.S. Fun fact… this is the dress that our founder, Tina, personally designed and wore for her own wedding in Fall 2024!)
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Want to see the front of this wedding dress, and learn more about the origins behind the name?
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Stay tuned. More to come!
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Find Your Wedding Dress
Choosing your wedding dress ultimately comes down to personal preference, comfort, and the overall vision you have for your wedding day.
At Grace + Ivory, we are committed to helping you find the dress that makes you feel confident, beautiful, and authentically you. Our made-to-measure approach ensures that your chosen gown fits perfectly, celebrating your individuality.
We invite you to explore our full collection of wedding dresses and experience the Grace + Ivory difference. Whether you opt for the subtle elegance of a trumpet gown or another stunning silhouette, we are here to make your journey to ‘I do’ as seamless and joyful as possible!
Click here to browse artisan wedding gowns designed by our all-female team.
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