There’s Something Fishy About This Summer’s Fashion

There’s something fishy emerging in fashion. Mermaidcore and fishermancore are set to be the summer’s defining styles. While both aesthetics draw their influence from the sea, they each express it wildly differently.

Mermaidcore is more mystical. Think iridescent and metallic skins, untamed silhouettes, and ethereal accessories. This style entrances passersby, leaving them questioning, “Where did she get that top from?”

On the flip side, fishermancore pulls from coastal living. It’s more utilitarian, traditional, and androgynous. Think boxy silhouettes, stripes, and layering fabrics.

Why We’re Hooked: Escapism & Major Runways

There are a myriad of reasons to draw from, but it’s clear: we are living in the age of escapism. The mermaid and fisherman aesthetics reflect a sense of whimsy — but also survival and grit — mirroring us, the consumer, directly.

Earlier this year, Pinterest included fisherman aesthetic, sea witchery, and aura beauty in their 2025 prediction report. And with major fashion houses like Miu Miu and Louis Vuitton showcasing oceanic designs on the runway, it’s safe to say these sea styles are more than a fad — they’re a whole moment.

How to Wear It: Textures, Colors, and Coastal Layers

The magic of mermaidcore and fishermancore lies in the details — the textures, the colors, and the hardware.

For Mermaidcore:

To call on that siren energy, opt for iridescent and sheer fabrics. Think of pieces that could slip off as you dive into a midnight swim. Add pearl and shell accessories, and play with a palette that spans from seafoam green to stormy blue and saltwater silver.

For Fishermancore:

It’s all about structure and practicality. Include details that look like they washed up from shore — nets, grommets, drawstrings, and woven straps. Just because the vibe is functional doesn’t mean it has to sacrifice comfort. Layer knitted vests, wide-leg pants, and boat shoes with quirky little fish trinkets.

Hellbent’s Summer Drop: 

The Claudie and Sacha Set

Due to this matching sets ethereal chartreuse color and sheen of the material, it's a no-brainer that this set would be a mermaid power-suit. It has a slightly oversized loungy fit, perfect for the casual tone of summer, while also being able to have high-impact with its tone and ability to create movement. 

The Iris Pant

Both a beach day and streetwear staple this drawstring cargo pant is your new summer neutral. Its sea foam cotton makeup nods to its fisherman roots. Let the pants do all the talking by pairing them with a basic like a bikini top or the Judd Tank.

The Anika Dress

Soft and structured, the Anika Dress is the perfect in-between if you love both aesthetics. With a gathered neckline and ribbon tie/bow detail, it feels like something Ariel would wear in 2025.

The Camila Vest

The ultimate fisherman vest with a femme twist. Its navy stripes and tan piping give off a classic, vintage feel that we’re obsessed with. Channel your inner captain by throwing it over the Iris Pant look.

The Chelly Shirt

This airy, high-gloss pink satin button-up catches the light like a pearl in the moonlight. Wear it with a shimmery eye and glossy lip for the flirtiest summer look.

The Casimira Dress

Versatility at it's finest with the Casimira Dress. This can be styled simply as a dress with a sneaker or heel but can also transform into a layering piece over denim and a boot. The gingham print screams coastal chic and is something we could see a mermaid wear sans-tail.

Come Sail Away

Whether you're drawn to the siren’s shimmer or the dockhand’s grit, this summer is about exploring both your softness and your strength.

Hellbent’s latest drop captures the spirit of the sea — airy, rugged, and a little untamed. With textures and silhouettes that tell stories, our pieces are curated specifically to make waves.

Your siren era is calling. Let yourself answer.