The trumpet dress and mermaid dresses are dramatic, sexy, alluring, yet at the same time, high fashion and elegant. For the past few decades, dresses that feature a fitted bodice and a skirt that flares out have been a coveted trend in wedding dresses and evening gowns. And for a good reason! This style of dress is flattering on a range of body shapes.
They are both your show-stop choice for prom dresses 2024
But do you know the difference between each silhouette, and which one should you choose?
Features of Trumpet Dresses
A trumpet dress features a silhouette that is close-fitting around the waist and hips, flaring out around the mid-thigh. The mermaid dress silhouette fits snugly all the way down to below the knee; it then flares out just below the knee, the shape of this dress style resembles a trumpet.
Since trumpet dresses flare at the thigh, they create the illusion of longer legs.
The skirt of a trumpet dress flares out more gradually and can continue into a train. This creates an effortlessly elegant look.
The trumpet silhouette may be a bit easier to move in than the mermaid silhouette.
Features Of A Mermaid Dress
The mermaid-style dress hugs the body from the bodice down to the knees, where it flares out into a dramatic skirt, like a mermaid shape.
The skirt of the mermaid dress is sudden, creating a dramatic contrast between the top and bottom of the dress.
Full and prominent the skirt can continue to flare out into a train of any length.
The skirt may also feature details like sequins, lace, ruffles, or beading.
Trumpet or Mermaid Dress: Which Style Should You Choose?
You may have your heart set on a mermaid prom dress. Or perhaps you cannot decide between the two. Then keep these factors in mind.
Mobility and Freedom of Movement
If you plan to dance until your feet hurt, consider a trumpet-style prom dress, for it is far easier to move in.
Mermaid-style dresses are harder to move around in because the flare falls at or below the knee.
If you are prefer mermaid prom dresses, try to walk in it for a bit before the party. This will give you an idea of how much freedom of movement you will have in the dress.
Your Body Type
The silhouette of your prom dress should flatter your body type.
Mermaid silhouettes are bold and daring. They accentuate and enhance curves, and they are the most flattering on natural curves and hourglass-shaped bodies. So mermid prom dress will be the dress of choice if you are after a sexy and curvy style.
Mermaid dresses are also flattering on inverted triangle body shapes (top-heavy or broader shoulders). The full skirt at the bottom of the dress will balance out broad shoulders; the tight-fitting bodice will accentuate hips and curves, creating a sultry yet elegant look.
Trumpet dresses are most flattering on pear-shaped and hourglass-shaped bodies. They accentuate curves but fit less snugly at mid-thigh, allowing more room for movement.
Mermaid and trumpet dresses are also fabulous for petite women. A full skirt can be overwhelming on a smaller frame. Mermaid dresses are particularly flattering on petite women because the bodice elongates the upper body.
But if you are conscious of your mid-section, choose another dress style as the mermaid and trumpet are figure-hugging, leaving little room to hide.
This is not to say that you cannot wear a mermaid or trumpet-style dress if you do not have curves. Try on a few different styles to find a dress that brings out the best in you. However, with a bit of effort, those not blessed with natural curves will be able to find mermaid or trumpet-style dress that works with their body shape.
Your Dress Should Match Your Personality
The mermaid prom dress is a bold and daring style. It highlights every curve. To pull it off, you need to have a good dose of confidence and enjoy flaunting your natural curves.
The trumpet dress is sexy in a more subtle way. So if you are more conservative, but would like elegance with a sultry touch, go for a trumpet style.
Whether you opt for a mermaid-style dress or a trumpet silhouette, you need to feel confident and comfortable when you slip on the dress. To me, I would go for a trumpet-style dress. Not only does it offer more movement but it is both flattering and alluring.