Fitted through the top, flared at the bottom, and undeniably stunning, mermaid style wedding dresses have a silhouette unlike any other wedding dress. These gowns are striking and truly show off your figure!
On a day when all eyes will be on you, a mermaid wedding dress is a fantastic way to let your personality shine. The gorgeous “tails” of these dresses are often detailed with delicate lace, shimmering beads, or even a long train.
We love how mermaid wedding dresses hug a bride’s curves, elegantly providing that hourglass figure. If you want classy with just a touch of sultry, the mermaid gown is the way to go.
Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance, modern simplicity, or something with a little more edge, we’ve rounded up our favorite mermaid wedding dresses from real brides and styled shoots to inspire your own look. And if any of these make you do a double-take, click through to see the full wedding! For even more bridal inspiration, browse our Real Weddings directory.
Top Mermaid Style Wedding Dress Picks
One of the best parts about a mermaid wedding dress is that the form-fitting skirt makes an excellent canvas on which to add beautiful details. Check out our top picks to see just what we mean!
Off-Shoulder Elegance with a Dramatic Train
This is the mermaid silhouette in its most polished form. The off-shoulder neckline with sheer long sleeves and delicate lace bodice transitions seamlessly into a smooth crepe skirt that pools into a stunning train. It’s giving modern royalty—structured enough to feel bridal, but with enough romance in the lace to keep things soft. See Danielle and Jacob’s Lakeside Autumn Wedding at Hermann Hill.
Illusion Mermaid with Gold Appliqués
If you’ve ever wanted to feel like you stepped out of a fairy tale, this is your dress. Sheer illusion fabric hugs the body while gold and white appliqués create an almost armor-like effect—fitting, given she’s flanked by actual knights. The dramatic flare at the bottom completes the look. This one’s for the bride who wants to make an entrance people will talk about for years. See this Enchanted Styled Wedding at Cloisters Castle.
Open-Back Feather Mermaid
The back of this dress is doing a lot—and we mean that as the highest compliment. Criss-cross straps create a geometric open back, while the fitted lace bodice gives way to feathery details at the hem. It’s unexpected, it’s textural, and it’s exactly the kind of dress that makes your guests crane their necks as you walk down the aisle. See this Enchanted Styled Wedding at Cloisters Castle.
Sleek Crepe with Bow Detail
Sometimes the magic is in the details. This sleek crepe mermaid keeps things minimal from the front, but the back tells a different story: covered buttons trail down the spine and culminate in a perfectly placed bow at the small of the back where the skirt begins to flare. The waterside sunset setting? Just showing off at this point. See Jane and Dan’s Wedding.
Ruffled Tulle Mermaid
The sweetheart neckline, the fitted bodice, the explosion of ruffled tulle from the knees down—this dress knows what it’s doing. Displayed on an ornate canopy bed with a personalized hanger, it’s giving us all the getting-ready photo inspiration we need. The cascading ruffles add volume and movement while still keeping that signature mermaid shape. See this Birds and Bees Themed Wedding.
Corset-Back Mermaid with Ruffled Train
For the bride who wants that snatched waist effect, a corset back is your best friend. This strapless mermaid features a lace-up corset closure that creates a beautiful V down the back, while layers of ruffled organza cascade into a voluminous train. The vineyard setting is just the cherry on top. See Lindsey and Riley’s Wedding.
Sweetheart Lace with Vineyard Views
Lace lovers, this one’s for you. The sweetheart neckline frames the décolletage beautifully, while the allover lace pattern continues through the fitted bodice and into a tulle-lined train. Paired with a lush marsala and blush bouquet against vineyard views, it’s romantic without being over the top. See Aleen and Rich’s Marsala and Grey Vineyard Wedding.
Garden Mermaid with Fresh Florals
This fitted lace gown with its subtle sweetheart neckline proves that mermaid silhouettes aren’t just for glam venues. The bride added fresh flowers in her hair to complement her white and greenery bouquet, creating an effortlessly romantic look perfect for an outdoor celebration. The ornamental grasses framing the shot? Chef’s kiss. See Tiffany and Nick’s Dreamy Wedding with Flower Moon Gate.
Three-Quarter Sleeve Lace Mermaid
There’s something undeniably elegant about lace sleeves, and this Melissa Sweet gown gets it right. The three-quarter length hits at just the right spot, the bateau neckline is timeless, and the fitted silhouette with small train keeps things sophisticated. Surrounded by candlelight with a loose, organic bouquet, this styled shoot nailed the moody romance vibe. See this Classical Music Themed Styled Shoot.
Lace Mermaid at French Doors
Backlit by natural light streaming through French doors, this bride showcases her lace mermaid with its gorgeous scalloped-edge train. The cathedral-length veil adds drama without competing with the dress, and that stance—hands resting on the doorframe—is pure bridal confidence. Glen Manor House provided the perfect backdrop. See Jaclyn and Nathan’s Light Aqua and Blue Wedding in Newport.
Blush Lace Fit-and-Flare
Not all mermaid dresses are bright white, and this blush champagne beauty proves why that’s a good thing. The warm undertone of the lace against the scalloped hem creates a soft, romantic look that’s perfect for garden and spring weddings. Add in that overflowing peony bouquet and the white porch swing in the background, and you’ve got peak Southern charm. See Maggie and Brian’s 4th of July Wedding.
Dramatic Veil and Fitted Silhouette
This black and white portrait is all about the drama. The bride stands silhouetted against an ornate trefoil window, arms outstretched to show off the full span of her cathedral veil and the train pooling at her feet. The fitted silhouette is visible even in silhouette—and that’s the point. Sometimes one powerful image says everything. See Kati and Justin’s Stunning Fall Wedding Outdoors.
Lace Mermaid by the Lake
There’s something about a couple stealing a quiet moment by the water that gets us every time. The bride’s lace fit-and-flare with spaghetti straps and scalloped train provides the perfect amount of detail without overwhelming the intimate mood. The groom’s gray vest and navy pants complement without competing. This is what happily ever after looks like. See Maggie and Brian’s 4th of July Wedding.
Rustic Farm Mermaid
Mermaid gowns aren’t just for ballrooms—they work beautifully in rustic settings too. This sweetheart lace number looks right at home against the white fence and dappled light of Sowell Farms. The fitted silhouette and trailing train create elegance, while the relaxed farm backdrop keeps things approachable. See Megan and Ryan’s Wedding at Sowell Farms.
Lace Mermaid with Navy Bridesmaids
A dress shot that actually tells a story. This lace mermaid with its fitted bodice and tiered skirt hangs between the navy bridesmaid dresses, showing off its shape in all its glory. The yellow striped wallpaper adds a pop of unexpected color, and the beaded details on the bridesmaids’ dresses hint at the sparkle to come. See Allison and Dan’s Wedding.
Bridal Party Goals
This shot proves that a mermaid train looks just as good surrounded by your favorite people as it does in a solo portrait. The bride’s lace gown with its fitted silhouette and scalloped train takes center stage, while her bridesmaids in varying shades of lavender and purple create a gorgeous gradient. Bouquets up, backs to the camera, ready for anything. See Britanni and Jared’s Wedding.
Gothic Black And Red Mermaid Gown
The corset bodice laces up the back like a Victorian secret, drawing the eye to a structured silhouette that means business. The bold contrast of inky black and blood-red satin is not here to whisper — it announces. You’re not floating down the aisle; you’re making an entrance that could raise the dead (or at least your ex’s eyebrows).
This is a mermaid gown with a flair for the dramatic — quite literally. The flared skirt fans out like a dark bloom, giving you that grand, sweeping effect as you glide across cobblestone or cathedral floor. It’s not “bridal with a twist.” It’s bridal that bit the twist, drank its wine, and set the castle on fire. Perfect for fall ceremonies, candlelit vows, or weddings where the playlist includes a string quartet *and* Bauhaus. If your dream wedding involves a little less blush and a little more blood-red, this one earns its place at center stage.
Beaded Lace Mermaid Gown, Removable Sleeves
Delicate beaded lace meets a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette—and yes, the long sleeves *pop off*. No really, they’re detachable. That means you can walk into your ceremony all Grace Kelly from the collarbones down, then waltz into cocktail hour with your arms completely liberated and ready to raise a glass. Twice the look, half the drama.
Design-wise, it’s walking that fine line between Old World elegance and red-carpet energy: ornate lacework, strategic sparkle, and a shape that knows exactly what it’s doing. The removable sleeves are lined with the same lace as the rest of the dress, so it doesn’t feel like a last-minute add-on. More like a built-in outfit change your guests won’t see coming.
If you’re the kind of bride who appreciates commitment but not necessarily when it comes to sleeve length, this one plays both sides beautifully. You get coverage and glam for the photos, and freedom to dance like no one’s watching (but let’s be honest, they will be). This dress is smart, sultry, and just a little bit sneaky—in a very chic way.
Beaded Lace Trumpet Gown
Scattered ivory and blush lace appliqués layered over soft tulle — that’s the subtle drama this trumpet gown brings to the table. Dramatic, yes, but without screaming about it. The fitted bodice hugs where it should, flaring out just past the hips like it knows the angles of a flattering photo before the photographer even lifts the camera.
The beading is where things get interesting. You’ll spot delicate shimmer catching the light, but not in a disco-ball way — it’s more like golden hour in dress form. The sweetheart neckline stays classic, but pair it with the sculpted silhouette and you won’t exactly be giving off “timeless” vibes so much as “fresh royalty with a side of confidence.” And the best part? It doesn’t cost what you’d expect — or what it *looks* like it should cost, frankly.
This is a dress for the bride who wants to be a little extra — but not extra-spendy. The trumpet cut says red carpet, the train says aisle-worthy, and the price tag says “you still have room in your budget for a killer honeymoon.” Which, you know, priorities.
Black And Ivory Appliqué Mermaid Gown
Black floral appliqués on ivory tulle — like ink spilled across a blank page, but on purpose and with structure. This gown doesn’t flirt with drama; it walks up to it, locks eyes, and says “I do.” The fitted bodice flows into a mermaid flare that knows exactly what it’s doing, while the sheer overlay and plunging neckline bring just enough sheer to earn a slow blink from your mother-in-law without risking a lecture.
It’s equal parts gothic romance and high-fashion bridal — think Hepburn at midnight. The contrast between black and ivory isn’t just bold, it’s architectural. You’re not trying to blend in with a sea of ivory chiffon. You’re anchoring the entire event. For the bride who isn’t afraid to be seen (and maybe even whispered about in the best way), this one doesn’t whisper back — it speaks in full sentences.
Cap Sleeve Lace Gown
The lace overlay on this cap sleeve gown? All florals, no fuss. It’s the kind of lace that whispers vintage without veering into “dug this out of great-grandma’s attic” territory. With a sheer bateau neckline that dips into a soft V in the back, this dress balances demure and drama like it’s been training for this moment.
Then there are those cap sleeves—wholly underrated in the bridal world, yet here they are, giving structure without covering your arms like a lacey security blanket. The fitted bodice flows into a subtle flare (yes, technically more trumpet than true mermaid, but we won’t split hairs on your big day), sculpting your figure while still letting you breathe, move, and, you know, exist.
This one’s for the bride craving structure but not stiff, romance but not rhinestones, and a silhouette that flatters without stealing the spotlight from you, the person wearing it. It doesn’t beg for attention—it earns it, slowly and with grace.
Ivory Beaded Appliqué Trumpet Gown
More than one hundred carefully placed beaded appliqués trail across soft tulle like champagne bubbles caught mid-toast. The Ivory Beaded Appliqué Trumpet Gown doesn’t whisper elegance—it leans in and says it with eye contact. Fitted through the hips and flaring just above the knees, the trumpet silhouette means you get all the hourglass drama without sacrificing your ability to, say, breathe.
There’s a quiet confidence in this gown. It doesn’t rely on a cathedral-length veil or twelve layers of ruffles to make its point. The beading adds just enough shimmer to catch the light as you move, while the soft ivory tones keep things classic—not costume. Ideal for the bride who wants to look undeniably radiant but still feel like herself (just, you know, upgraded with a sculpted bodice and handcrafted details).
You’ll sashay rather than swim, twirl without tripping, and stun while still being able to sit. Beautifully extra in the right ways, this gown keeps the spotlight exactly where it should be: on you, taking up space and owning every inch of it.
Ivory Beaded Lace Trumpet Gown
Lace over knitted fabric — a surprisingly luxe choice that gives this gown that rare combo of structure *and* softness. The detailing is subtle but deliberate: beadwork trails down the bodice like it has somewhere to go (spoiler: it lands at the quietly dramatic trumpet flare), and the lace overlays don’t scream sparkle, but they definitely whisper it when the light hits just right.
This is for the bride who wants to turn heads without knocking anyone over. It hugs your curves the way a fitted dress should — with reverence — before flaring out just enough to make a statement. Not “spotlight in your face” statement, more like “why yes, you *did* see something breathtaking glide past” kind of moment. The ivory tone keeps things crisp without veering into too-princess territory, and the court train gives you a little extra drama without inviting any tripping hazards.
Basically, it’s the gown equivalent of balancing elegance with edge: timeless silhouette, done with just enough attitude to remind everyone whose day it is. You bring the walk. The dress will handle the entrance.
Ivory Off Shoulder Mermaid Gown
The structured crepe on this off-shoulder mermaid gown does *not* play around — it smooths, sculpts, and holds its shape like it was personally trained by an architect. The foldover neckline adds just enough drama to make you feel like you’re starring in your own couture editorial… but without the couture price tag, of course.
This is the kind of silhouette that doesn’t require beading, lace, or other bridal frills to make an impression. It leans all the way into clean lines and confidence. The off-the-shoulder cut is timeless, the mermaid shape knows exactly what it’s doing, and the fact that this level of tailoring comes in under a grand? That’s just showing off. In the best possible way.
Translation: It’s giving minimalist bride, but make it red-carpet-worthy. If you want to walk down that aisle looking like a total knockout — without closing your bank account along the way — this is the dress that gets it done. No filler, no fluff, just sharp design in a soft ivory package.
Ivory Satin Chiffon Trumpet Gown
That structured satin bodice isn’t playing around — it cinches at the waist like your confidence depends on it (which, let’s be real, it might). Paired with a chiffon skirt that flares just past the hips, this gown toes the line between red carpet drama and bridal softness — and somehow manages to nail both.
It’s a trumpet silhouette, which means the flare starts a little higher than a true mermaid — right around the mid-thigh — giving you more freedom to strut, twirl, and conquer your aisle moment without waddling like a very glamorous penguin. The chiffon adds just enough flow to keep things from feeling too stiff, so you’ll still get that “I float when I walk” look (without the threat of toppling over).
This is the dress for a bride who wants clean lines, power pose potential, and zero fuss. Minimalist? Sure. But only if your definition of “minimal” includes commanding the room the second you enter it. And it should.
Off Shoulder Sequined Lace Gown
Sequined lace over a fitted bodice that means business — this gown doesn’t sparkle *at* you, it sparkles *for* you. The off-the-shoulder neckline balances the shimmer with a dash of shoulder drama, toeing the line between “elegant bride” and “yes, I absolutely woke up like this” energy. It’s cut to flatter, and it knows it.
What puts this dress in a league of its own is how well it marries structure and softness. The chapel-length train trails behind you like a polite whisper while the sequin embroidery does all the demanding of attention. It’s romantic, but make it bold. This one’s for the bride who understands that timeless doesn’t have to mean invisible — you want the room to hush when you walk in? Start here.
Off The Shoulder Sequined Trumpet Gown
Thousands of tiny sequins stitched into sculpted off-shoulder lace — yes, your entrance will come with its own lighting effects. This gown balances shimmer with structure thanks to a contoured bodice that hugs you in all the right places before breaking into a soft flare just below the thigh. Translation: you’ll look like a glittering statue come to life, in the most bridal way possible.
The off-the-shoulder neckline feels subtly sultry without crossing into red carpet territory — remember, this is still a wedding, not a movie premiere (though the photos may say otherwise). The trumpet silhouette brings drama while maintaining movement, and the court train sweeps and pools just enough to remind everyone that, yes, this *is* your moment. If your personal style lives somewhere between classic elegance and “watch me glow like a disco ball, but make it bridal,” this one gets it.
Sky Blue Lace Mermaid Gown
Sky blue lace over a figure-hugging silhouette—this mermaid gown doesn’t whisper elegance, it sings it in full soprano. The lace detailing manages to be both romantic and sculptural, like a love letter written in swirls and scallops. And that flared hem? Pure drama, in the best way—the red-carpet kind of energy, but aisle-appropriate.
This dress is for the bride who’s not just dipping a toe into the “something blue” pool—she’s diving in, heels first. The sky hue isn’t icy or shy; it’s soft but deliberate, dreamy without disappearing. Paired with the body-hugging cut, it hugs all the right places before swooshing into a made-to-twirl tail that demands a photographer’s full attention (and at least one slow-motion spin).
If you’ve ever thought of lace as prissy or safe, this gown would like a word. It’s bold in its femininity, confident in its curves, and quietly rebellious in its color. Traditional white might be timeless, but this is how you make *your* moment unforgettable.
V-Neck Lace Appliqué Mermaid Gown
Lace appliqué tracing across a curve-hugging mermaid silhouette might sound like it’s trying too hard — but this one pulls it off with unnerving ease. The V-neckline is cut to flatter without demanding attention, while the spaghetti straps keep the look contemporary and clean (see also: absolutely no regrets about skipping sleeves). And that low, open back? It’s not subtle, but it is stylish — and perfect for the second-time bride who doesn’t feel the need to prove anything to anyone.
This is a dress that understands the difference between drama and fuss. The lace detailing is intricate without being delicate, the fit is sculpted but wearable, and the whole thing strikes that rare balance between “wow” and “I didn’t spend an hour getting into this.” It’s made for that confident aisle walk — slower, maybe, but with a little more swagger this time. The mermaid flare adds just enough movement for a dramatic exit shot, no cathedral-length veil required.
All About the Mermaid Wedding Dress Style
While ball gowns and A-line dresses tend to flair at the hips or the waist, mermaid style dresses flair below the knees. They create an alluring silhouette by being form-fitting all the way down to your calves. Mermaid dresses allow brides to proudly show off their curves, flattering their feminine form.
The fit of a mermaid dress is undeniably sexy and can have a few awesome benefits. For example, they can help balance out a full bust or make broad shoulders appear better proportioned. A mermaid dress can also be great for petite brides as the lengthier bodice helps to elongate the body.
A mermaid gown isn’t the only dress that hugs your form and flares below the waist. It is easy to confuse this style of dress with a trumpet fit. The details are in the flare and where it begins.
Trumpet wedding dresses flair at the thighs and have a bit fuller skirt. Mermaid gowns flair at the knees or below, really playing up your curves and elongating your torso. The silhouette of a mermaid gown is generally considered more dramatic than a trumpet.
Will I be able to walk and dance in a mermaid style wedding dress?
With all this form-fitting talk going on, it’s natural to wonder, will I even be able to move comfortably in my dress? Rest assured, you will be able to make it down the aisle. Gracefully too, I might add.
Mermaid gowns require short steps, sturdy and well fitting-shoes, and a touch of confidence. They can also be outfitted with a hoop that goes under the flare and helps to hold the fabric away from your body. That being said, if you plan to get down during your reception, you may want to bring a less restrictive dress to change into.
Aside from your footwear, you will also want to make sure you have the right undergarments. As mermaid gowns are fitted very tight to your body, shapewear will be your best friend. A bodysuit that provides lift for your bust, tummy control, and minimizes lines is usually recommended. We’ve rounded up some of our favorite bridal undergarments here!
With the right accessories and a healthy dose of “you’ve got this, girl!” a mermaid dress can be an unforgettable choice for your wedding day.
Make Waves on Your Wedding Day
Though mermaid dresses tend to only come in one shape, they are available in a variety of colors and styles. Different adornment and accessory options, like lace, beading, and tulle allow each bride to show off her individuality. Enchanting necklines, demure sleeves, and voluminous skirts help to add to the drama and silhouette of these one-of-a-kind gowns. A mermaid wedding dress is a magnificent way to make a memorable statement on your wedding day.
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