Fictional aquatic creatures such as mermaids have populated fiction and folklore all over the world for centuries. Notably Hans Christian Anderson’s “The Little Mermaid” published in the latter 19^th century, brought the story of unrequited love between amphibian and human to light; and then many years later Disney worked its magic on the same story with great success. Suddenly little girls everywhere wanted to emulate the title character’s look. But, let’s not forget that the word mermaid has also been a fashion term for decades. It was named for the long fitted skirt that bursts into what can only be described as a fish tail train from the knee down that was seen on evening gowns and haute couture runway shows. I must admit that the fashion world has always loved a glamorous figure to emulate regardless of whether it’s fact or fiction. That’s why we’re going to explore the elements necessary to create a mermaid look of your own if you so choose. The lure of the sea and the movement of the water all play into our interpretation of this classic, yet mythical creature this week.

Start off with some shimmer and shine that will represent the scales of a fish as well as the sunlight reflecting off of the water. That could be as simple as finding a sequined or beaded blouse, tank or tube top in gold, silver, blue, or green.  Go for the lighter pastel colors if possible to echo the ocean and to keep the look light and fresh for summer. Sequins and pailettes which are larger and look much more like the scales of a fish are appropriate now more than ever in fashion.  They take you from day to evening and everything in between. Just keep the color on the more subtle side of the spectrum for the look here.

Next, look for a flowing chiffon or lightweight cotton skirt in a teal blue, or algae green to mirror the look of the “fishtail.” You can go for a hi-low skirt, dirndl, or drawstring skirt, as long as it has volume as well as a sheer feeling. Paired with the glittering top, it evokes the graceful movement that the mythical mermaids made as they moved smoothly through the waters.

For jewelry, you should look to the sea again for items like shell-themed necklaces or earrings, golden cuffs that feature coral accents, or even items made from driftwood. It’s all part of the fun of creating a memorable ensemble!

A jute rope handbag left natural or done in a gold or silver metallic will be the perfect place to tote those daily essentials along with sunscreen, sunglasses and everything else a modern mermaid might need.

Needless to say sandals would be the perfect complement to this “see-worthy” outfit. Metallic gold and silver flat sandals embellished with shimmering gemstones or other accoutrements will do quite nicely.

The finishing touch, to ward off both the glaring sun during the day and the cool evening breeze at night would be a shawl or scarf that looks as though it might be a fishing net itself!

Goodwill is a fantastic resource to get your creative fashion juices flowing!  Taking the time to find items you love and that also fit your style is what living amazing is all about. The bonus for your “sea hunt” at Goodwill is that you’re helping support local community programs and looking good doing it!