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When it comes to trends, the fashion world is split right down the middle right now. You have the quiet luxe side that’s making a case for front-row-worthy plain white T-shirts and basic splurge-y tank tops. Then there are the uncontainable maximalists, who are letting their outfits do all the talking (or should I say shouting?), with smoking hot pink hues and—the reason why we’re here—dazzling mermaid skirts.
What exactly is a mermaid skirt, you ask? Unlike traditional skirts, these were made to shine bright, literally, thanks to hypnotizing sequins and large-scale paillettes. The sparkling discs are sewn onto skirts in a way that’s reminiscent of a mermaid’s scales, hence the name of the trend. Of course, Paco Rabanne is one fashion house that has mastered the art of the shimmering skirt, but there are other designers dabbling in the glittering look. In Altuzarra and Jonathan Simkhai’s Fall 2022 collections, models looked like high-fashion mermaids with enlarged paillettes woven throughout the collection. The trend goes beyond the fanciful discs to include shiny lamé, too, which was spotted at Tom Ford.
Ahead, we’ve gathered our favorite mermaid skirts below, along with outfit ideas to make wearing the ritzy trend a cinch.
Magical Minis
Bring those leg-baring minis into the fall with a sweatshirt and boots, just like Dua Lipa is doing in a spring 2023 Casablanca wrap sequin skirt.
Luxe Lamé
Go for the gold or silver with luxurious lamé finishes à la Nicola Beckham, who took this flashy Tom Ford skirt for a spin with a contrasting tank top during New York Fashion Week.
Playful Paillettes
Whether you’re looking for a way to zhuzh up your girls’ night out looks or simply want to dazzle at brunch, reach for a mini with oversized paillettes. Here, Leonie Hanne wears a baby pink Paco Rabanne number with a Jacquemus button-up.
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Shimmering Sequins
Transform your next evening wear look with a hypnotizing sequin skirt just like Tory Burch did while attending VOGUE World. Again, a classic button-up makes a great companion next to the dazzling skirt.
Fanciful Fringe
The easiest way to wear the party-ready skirt is to follow Gwen Stefani’s lead and find an option that comes with a matching top—like her Jonathan Simkhai style.
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