Berlin Fashion Week: With these 5 accessories you can achieve the mermaidcore trend

The mermaidcore trend is back on top this summer. What defines it—and which pieces we're loving right now.
"Diamonds are a girl's best friend" – oh really? This summer, at least, freshwater pearls are claiming that title for themselves. Shell-shaped jewelry and other details reminiscent of underwater worlds are also very trendy. Sparkling jewelry and nautical elements not only go perfectly with airy summer looks, but also add sophisticated accents to more simple, monochrome outfits.
They remind us of what we're probably most longing for in the coming weeks: sand beneath our feet, salty sea air, glittering sun reflections on the water. In fashion, the interplay of glittering sequins, shimmering fabrics, and nautical accents is summarized under the term "mermaidcore" – a hardcore preference for mermaid style. We show you five accessories that perfectly embody this summer feeling.
1. Sparkling unique pieces: glass bead bags by Maren Lilian
"My heart longs for the sea, loves the Mallorcan blue, and reveals itself in the warmth of the sun," says Berlin-based founder Maren Lilian about the origins of the bag brand that bears her name. She sells the colorful designer pieces through her website; each piece is a sparkling one-of-a-kind.

Woven from glass beads and available in a fresh, vibrant color palette ranging from cherry red to light blue, they add a playful touch to any outfit. The bags, which are available in various sizes and can also be custom-made upon request, are perfect for a sophisticated style twist: a straight-cut, long blazer in a light sand tone, paired with a shimmering beaded bag in a bold shade.
Glass bead bags by Maren Lilian. Prices range from €60 to €289. www.arenlilian.com
2. Less is more: shell jewelry by Saskia Diez"Wear them always, or whenever you dream of them," reads the product description of Saskia Diez's "Limpet" collection. The Munich-based jewelry designer reinterprets the shape of the shell in this line, transforming it into understated pieces of jewelry. The earrings, bracelets, and rings are made from recycled silver and gold, in collaboration with goldsmiths in Germany.

The "Limpet" earrings, in particular, subtly reflect the current "mermaidcore" trend: The shell element is made of 925 sterling silver, from which a freshwater pearl hangs; a matching bracelet is also available. Our hair styling tip for wearing the earrings: The delicate pieces look particularly beautiful with loosely pinned hair or a bold braid.
"Limpet" earrings by Saskia Diez. Sterling silver and freshwater pearl for 215 euros. www.saskia-diez.com .
3. Naturally sexy: Necklace by Laluma Chains
"Making gemstones sexy again" – that's the motto of the Aschaffenburg-based brand Laluma Chains. Founder Vanessa Fischer combines natural materials such as gemstones and freshwater pearls in her designs with a playful design language that reflects "the sensual power of nature."

Fans of the brand include TV presenter Wana Limar and model Stefanie Giesinger. Particularly beautiful: the "Matcha" necklace made of turpentine and prehnite gemstones, which fits perfectly with the "mermaidcore" trend. The necklace also fits the surfer look of the 1990s, another summer theme. Accordingly, it can be perfectly styled with baby tees, colorful bikini tops, or Hawaiian shorts.
"Matcha" necklace by Laluma Chains. Made of turpentine and prehnite gemstones, €180. www.laluma-chains.com
4. Algae avant-garde: Sunglasses by Ottolinger
It's well known that Christa Bösch and Cosima Gadient are capturing the spirit of the times with their Berlin-based brand Ottolinger – the label is internationally acclaimed and worn by stars like Beyoncé, Kim Kardashian, and Kylie Jenner. The two designers create collections that oscillate between club culture and high fashion.

Her accessories also reflect a playful, rebellious aesthetic, yet are distinctly feminine. Perfect for the "mermaidcore" trend, then: the "Twisted Sunglasses" in rose, with a seaweed-like frame, are sure to appeal to all mermaids who like to stand out. Whether worn with a simple bodysuit and shorts in a sober color or as an exciting contrast to a light and airy summer dress, the glasses with the rose-tinted lenses add a special touch to any outfit.
"Twisted" sunglasses by Ottolinger. Made of acetate, €203. www.ottolinger.com
5. Sea magic for your nails: nail polish by Essie
Those who want to cautiously approach the mermaid trend should try shimmering nail polish in aqua tones. Essie's "Special Effects" range is ideal for this. The shade "Mystic Marine"—as the name suggests—fits the theme perfectly; a shimmering turquoise with iridescent chrome particles that sparkles like sunbeams on water depending on the light.

And if you're feeling a bit more experimental or prefer more durable gel nails, you can ask for small pearls or shells to be applied to your nails during your next salon visit. Shimmering scale patterns, such as in metallic silver or azure, would also be a nice idea.
Essie's "Special Effects" nail polish . Turquoise with chrome particles, €7. www.essie.de
Berliner-zeitung