THE INSPIRATION

Make a splash at the Coney Island Mermaid Parade by crafting an mermaid costume.

I used natural hues that were reminiscent of deep green seaweed and subdued shells. A combination of pearly and matte shells gave me the effect I was looking for, and shimmery green materials combined with thick, textured netting have the outfit a marine vibe.

I hot glued shells and shell pieces to an old bra and detailed the piece with pearl lining. Fake seaweed grasses and leaves added splashes of green color.

I used a gauzy green material for the skirt wrap and glued shells, green shimmery ribbon, and shell pieces throughout.

For the headpiece, I glued fish netting to a headband. Then, I used wire and hot glue to attach larger shells in to the top, and filled in gaps with seaweed and smaller shells.

For the arm wraps, I hot glued shell pieces and seaweed onto cut hosiery. I also made a clasp to clip onto the waist wrap, and bought a pair of shiny shorts.