“Fairycore” – Dreamy Fairy
The “fairycore” wave is no longer a new concept in the fashion world. However, thanks to the “Garden of Time” theme at the 2024 Met Gala, this trend has made a sweeping comeback across social media platforms. At the event, fashion enthusiasts witnessed “fairy” moments from top global entertainment stars, transforming the “super red carpet” into an enchanted garden, showcasing fashion creations inspired by “fairycore.”
Image: Getty Images
Image: Getty Images
This Halloween season, “fairycore” has become a story of escaping into a dreamy world amidst the eerie and dark inspirations of costume themes. The charm of this style lies in the delicate blend of fairytale elements and contemporary fashion. Flowing cloud-like dresses, intricately embroidered corsets, paired with floral crowns, elegant hair ties, or butterfly pendants, will help you achieve the perfect “fairycore” look. To feel as if you’ve just stepped out of an enchanted forest, don’t forget to add a sheer, dewy makeup base with a touch of glitter, like a dusting of magical fairy dust.
Kendall Jenner transformed into a poetic fairy with a white dress by Alexander McQueen, debuted in the Spring/Summer 1997 collection.(Image: Gotham)
“Fairy Grunge” – The Rebellious Fairy of the Night
If “fairycore” is a dreamy world, then “fairy grunge” is the dark, edgy side of fairies for this Halloween season. Breaking free from the sweet framework of fairy tales, “fairy grunge” emerges as a fresh breeze for rebellious souls. This style is not merely a blend of two trends but a redefinition of fairy beauty in a new era.
Image: Cider
No longer tied to soft pastel shades, “fairy grunge” brings a palette of warm, muted tones like moss green, earthy brown, and mysterious black. Essential items for the “dark fairy” look include long dresses, hauntingly torn lace details, and bold corsets. Rebellious accessories such as chokers, long socks, high boots, and dark angel wings are key accents that define this style. A unique aspect of “fairy grunge” is its multi-layered approach, allowing wearers the freedom to get creative and showcase their individuality.
Image: Pinterest
“Mermaidcore” – The Mythical Ocean Fairy in Contemporary Fashion
When it comes to Halloween costume inspirations, the mermaid look has always been an iconic theme. Evolving from fairytales of ocean fairies, “mermaidcore” has become a captivating fashion trend. In recent years, major fashion houses have redefined mermaidcore on prestigious runways, transforming this ocean-inspired style. No longer limited to restrictive fishtail gowns, the trend now embraces endless creative variations, expanding its boundaries beyond traditional designs.
Addison Rae transformed into a modern “mermaid” with a Thom Browne dress at the 2024 CFDA Awards red carpet.(Image: Getty Images)
Danny Reinke Spring-Summer 2025 Collection. (Image: Danny Reinke)
From bold cut-out designs to shimmering embellishments reminiscent of mermaids, and a palette of oceanic blues, everything reflects a blend of freedom, allure, romance, and a hint of rebellion, carrying the vibes of the sea. Details like seashells, pearls, and sequins not only adorn the garments but also weave into accessories, creating the unique enchantment of “mermaidcore” aesthetics.
Image: Getty Images