How to Make a Mermaid Costume

Want to dress up as a gorgeous creature from the sea? Mermaid outfits are great for masquerade parties or for Halloween. When you create your own costume, you can tailor the fit and the design to suit your individual needs. Just read this guide to learn how to make a mermaid costume.

This costume is for intermediate level designers. It takes a bit of sewing know-how, but is not terribly complicated. Most of the materials needed are relatively cheap, and can be found at craft stores. Mermaid costumes can be made for children or for adults, and can be as innocent or as sexy as you please.

Here are the necessary materials:

• A long, tightly-fitting skirt (shiny fabric is ideal)
• Fabric to match the skirt
• Scissors
• Bikini top or bra
• Fabric dye
• Sewing machine (or a needle and thread if you are skilled at sewing)
• Glue gun
• Decorations such as shells, sequins, charms and plastic flowers
• Body glitter
• Sandals http://www.ehow.com/how_2078813_make-mermaid-costume.html

Here's how to make the top:

1. Dye the bikini or bra top to the desired color.
2. Cut two round shapes with scalloped edges around the fabric (to look like shells).
3. Sew them onto the cups of your bikini top or bra.
4. Decorate by gluing shells, sequins, etc. onto the top. http://diyfashion.about.com/od/costumes/ig/How-to-Make-Costumes/Ariel-or-Mermaid-Costume.htm

Here's how to make the skirt portion:

1. Taper the skirt to thin out around the bottom (cut a slit to help you walk, if needed).
2. Cut fin shapes out of the matching material.
3. Attach the fins to the bottom of the skirt, so that they graze the ground when you strut about. The trick is to make the bottom part look like fins while still allowing movement for the legs. You also want to make sure that you are not going to trip over the ends of the fabric while you walk.

When you are ready to dress up, pair the top with the skirt. Rub shimmery or glittery body lotion on your arms, chest and torso. Add any desired accessories, such as seashell necklaces or earrings. Finish off with sandals, and leave your hair down.