How to ace the trending mermaidcore beauty aesthetic

Over the years, a lot has been said about make-up (and skincare) as a form of self-care. There is something extremely satisfying about applying a hot pink winged-tail eyeliner over the classic black, or just taking the day to give yourself a mani-pedi followed by some DIY colourful nail art that describes your mood for the day. The look you choose is an extension of your personality; it is truly the most intimate form of self-care. And recently, a trend, aptly named mermaidcore, has cropped up on the horizon that is about to make this experience better and shinier. 

You can think of the mermaidcore trend as the answer to the Goth girl make-up trend that is going around. Influenced partly by all the Euphoria-inspired looks, partly by the wet-look beauty trend, and partly by the recently released movie, The Little Mermaid, mermaidcore is your chance to live out your Ariel-esque dreams. This trend is about embracing the overall aesthetic of mythical creatures.

Simply put, mermaidcore takes the dewy shower-skin look one step further by building onto it and making it as shimmery as possible. Think two extra strokes of your most glittering highlighter, strategically placed pearl accessories around the eyes, or eyeshadow in bright cool colours. The aim is to make yourself look like you just stepped out of a fairytale; as though you swim with dolphins and live in an underwater castle.  

In a ‘how to’ video, make-up artist Zoe Kim Kenealy explains, “The goal of mermaidcore trend is to make your skin look like it’s glimmering or shimmering on its own.” The key is to use products that have a fine, buildable, and glittery finish, instead of anything that’s too in-your-face sparkly. It’s about having an ultra-dewy texture; so prep your skin thoroughly with moisturisers and serums to achieve that luminescent look, and then cap it with colour around the eyes and glitter in some of the more concentrated areas. 

Now, you’re ready to swim around or lie on the rocks by a waterfall.