The Mermaid and the Monster: Design Inspiration and Size Guide
Beware, Kittens... beneath the prettiest turquoise waters, some rather dangerous secrets are waiting to be discovered!
Lost ships, handsome sailors, mythical sea creatures and beautiful mermaids whose enchanting songs have been known to lead even the most sensible of gentlemen astray.
With spring in full bloom and the promise of long summer days ahead, our latest Kitten D'Amour Collection, 'The Mermaid and the Monster', invites you on a wonderfully romantic voyage where maritime folklore meets vintage seaside glamour.
Think beautiful vintage-inspired summer dresses, playful sailor details, breathtaking illustrations and one rather possessive sea monster who is about to have his heart broken!
A Tale of Love & a Rather Jealous Kraken
The year is 1786. Far beneath the turquoise waters of Blue Pearl Bay lives the beautiful Coralia, surrounded by her five mermaid sisters, colourful coral gardens and tropical fish. Watching over their underwater paradise is Nerathul, the Ancient One. A mighty Kraken harbouring a rather enormous secret. He's hopelessly in love with Coralia. Unfortunately, she hasn't the faintest idea!
Life in Blue Pearl Bay is blissfully peaceful until the arrival of The Galliant, a magnificent British frigate commanded by the handsome Captain Alister Hawke. From the moment Coralia and Captain Hawke lay eyes upon one another, they fall hopelessly in love. The Captain dreams of taking his beautiful mermaid home to England, where they might begin a new life together.
There is, however, one rather significant complication. Nerathul. You see, Kittens, even an ancient sea monster is not immune to a broken heart! And when Nerathul discovers that Coralia intends to leave Blue Pearl Bay, his devotion turns to jealousy and rage.
Will Coralia abandon everything she has ever known for the man she loves? Or will the waters of Blue Pearl Bay claim another tragic maritime tale?
And in the depths, the Ancient One stirs.
Vintage Inspired Dresses, with a Splash of Mermaid Magic
For centuries, mermaids have enchanted sailors and storytellers alike. Beautiful, mysterious and occasionally rather dangerous, these legendary creatures have inspired everything from ancient folklore to Victorian cabinets of curiosities, filled with exotic shells, nautical treasures and supposed specimens from the deep.
And lurking beneath the waves? The mighty Kraken of Scandinavian legend, a fearsome sea monster said to be capable of dragging entire ships to their watery graves. Add a handsome sea captain, a beautiful mermaid and a little romantic jealousy, and we have all the ingredients for a deliciously dramatic Kitten D'Amour fairytale!
Of course, the sea has inspired more than a few love stories. It's also given us some of fashion's most enduring looks! From the sailor collars and naval-inspired details of the nineteenth century to the beautifully cinched waists, swishing skirts and seaside glamour of the 1940s and 1950s, nautical fashion has always had a certain je ne sais quoi. And Mermaid and the Monster brings it all together in spectacular style!
Where Folklore Meets Fashion
Imagine the palest seafoam, shimmering turquoise and deep ocean blues, with splashes of coral pink and tropical green. Across the collection's extraordinary illustrated print, mermaids glide through colourful coral gardens, magnificent sailing ships navigate tropical waters, and the tentacles of a lovesick Kraken curl ominously towards the surface.
Jaunty sailor collars, charming neckties, crisp white trim and beautifully defined waists capture the romance of vintage seaside fashion, while the full skirts and feminine silhouettes are pure Kitten D'Amour. It's as though Coralia herself has raided a rather fabulous vintage wardrobe aboard The Galliant!
And just wait until you discover the finer details, Kittens. Because while the artwork tells a wonderful story, the real magic is in how these beautiful designs bring it to life...
A Little Mermaid Romance
Our magnificent 'The Mermaid and the Monster' Maxi Dress is surely something Coralia herself would have adored! With its romantic ruffled neckline, delicate draped shoulders and sweeping full-length skirt, this is a dress made for grand entrances, summer soirées and the occasional stolen kiss beneath the stars.
The dreamy turquoise gradually gives way to an underwater paradise, with the magnificent maritime illustration unfolding towards the hem. And with all that beautiful fabric floating around you, who could possibly resist giving it a little twirl?
One can almost hear the ocean calling... Or perhaps that's Captain Hawke!
A Splash of Turquoise
Not every treasure needs to be hiding beneath the waves! Our turquoise 'The Mermaid and the Monster' Full Skirt and matching cropped Bolero bring a wonderfully fresh take on vintage nautical fashion, with crisp white trim adding just the right touch of sailor charm. The Full Skirt's generously sized pockets feature striking geometric trim accents, while the Bolero's sweet rounded collar and covered buttons make it a beautiful little finishing piece.
Together, they're a gorgeous celebration of colour and classic vintage styling. Separately, they're wonderfully versatile additions to a summer wardrobe.
And for those Kittens who adore a little extra swish, we suspect a petticoat or two might be called for!
A Wiggle With A Secret
Now, Kittens, we simply must talk about that Wiggle Dress! From the front, she's all vintage elegance and nautical charm, with her sailor collar, sweet necktie and beautifully figure-hugging silhouette.
But turn around, Kittens, and there's a rather spectacular surprise!
An extraordinary bustle-inspired detail, complete with crisp white trim, decorative buttons and a dainty bow, reveals another glimpse of our magnificent maritime artwork. A little Victorian drama, a little 1950s glamour, and a rather fabulous reason to make an exit!
And as all Kittens know, our Wiggle Dress deserves a backwards glance!
A Fairytale in Every Detail
From pearl-like buttons and delicate lace to playful sailor details and breathtaking illustrated prints, 'The Mermaid and the Monster' is a collection that rewards a closer look. There's a little something of Coralia's romantic underwater kingdom, a dash of Captain Hawke's nautical elegance and perhaps even a hint of Nerathul's dramatic temperament!
So, Kittens, will you be swept away by Coralia's romantic ruffles, fall for Captain Hawke's jaunty nautical charm, or succumb to the dramatic allure of a certain magnificent Wiggle Dress?
Whatever your heart desires, 'The Mermaid and the Monster' promises a summer filled with vintage glamour, maritime romance and just a little danger beneath the waves.
After all, every Kitten deserves a fairytale wardrobe... even if hers comes with a Kraken!
Before you set sail on your own 'The Mermaid and the Monster' adventure, let's talk about finding that all-important perfect fit! Our lovely Kitten D'Amour team has been trying on the collection, comparing silhouettes and sharing their thoughts to help you choose your new treasures. Because the only thing that should be causing drama on this voyage is our jealous Kraken, not your dress size!
Jackie Kitten Wears....
Jackie's Fit Snapshot
Height: 163cm
Measurements: Bust 90cm, Waist 76cm, Hip 104cm
Usually Wears: Size 8
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Maxi Dress | Size 8:
“My usual Size 8 gave me a fitted bust and waist. The glorious, lightweight fabric flows beautifully, but has no stretch, so the bodice feels structured. I love the adjustable straps and draped shoulders! I wore cream Keepsake Shoes and a nude Pretty Kitty Belt; white sneakers would be gorgeous for a casual day.”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Wiggle Dress | Size 10:
“My usual Wiggle Size 10 was firm on the hips with a little room at the bust; the 12 was too roomy. Kitten Shaper Shorts will help! The breathable, linen-based fabric is lovely for summer, and the bustle and sailor collar make this my favourite. I’m dreaming of a cruise with Vixen Petite Pearl Heels and a Mermaid Scarf.”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Full Skirt (Print) | Size 8:
“My usual 8 was a little snug at the waist but comfortable. The textured, linen-based fabric falls beautifully, especially with a petticoat to show off the fairytale print. I adore the pearl-like buttons! With the blue Classic Camisole it almost looks like a dress.”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Classic Camisole, (Blue) | Size 10
“I sized up because the 8 was firm across my back and shoulders. The 10 is comfortable without being loose at the waist. The puff sleeves can be worn off the shoulder, too. I’d style it with Vegas Wide Leg Denim and a scarf!”
Chloe Kitten Wears....
Chloe's Fit Snapshot
Height: 170cm
Measurements: Bust 85cm, Waist 72cm, Hip 102cm
Usually Wears: 10
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Wiggle Dress | Size 10:
"I usually wear an 8 in Wiggles, but found the 10 more flattering in this design. I love bringing out the gorgeous colours with my accessories! I chose a Celeste Blue Follies Flower, Juliette Pearl Necklace and Navy Vixine Petite Shoes to highlight the darker tones in the print."
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Classic Camisole (Blue) | Size 10:
"The Size 10 was a perfect fit, and I especially love the higher back! Although you can tuck it in, I preferred leaving it untucked to show off its lovely shape. I added a Cream Follies Scarf and Follies Twin Roses for a pretty contrast against the blue."
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Bias Maxi Skirt | Size 10
"Both the Size 8 and 10 fitted comfortably at my waist, but the 10 was more flattering around my hips. I paired it with the Blue Classic Camisole and finished the look with Cream Vixine Petite Shoes to tie everything together. I just love how beautifully the colours complement one another!"
Lily Kitten Wears...
Lily's Fit Snapshot
Height: 168cm
Measurements: Bust 88cm, Waist 70cm, Hip 90cm
Usually Wears: 8 or S/M
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Full Dress | Size 8:
“It fits like a glove, but it is firm, so fuller-busted Kittens may prefer to size up. I adore the button-lined pockets, striped collar and tie! I kept the accessories to simple pearls so the magical skirt artwork could shine.”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Crop Jacket | Size 8:
“The lightest Crop Jacket I’ve tried! My 8 works open, but I’d size up to button it or allow more room through the arms. It’s slightly lighter than the Full Dress bodice, and an exact blue match for the Full Skirt.”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Classic Camisole, Vanilla | Size 8:
“Like our Cherry Bomb Camisole, this is very firm but beautifully fitted. I’d size up for a fuller bust. The puff-sleeve elastic is surprisingly stretchy and comfortable, and the vanilla colour goes with everything!”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Classic Full Skirt, Blue | Size 8:
“My usual 8 fits as expected. It’s lightweight and breathable, with fabulous deep pockets and white detailing. I added TWO petticoats for volume and a Sparkle Mint Belt over the Vanilla Camisole.”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Jersey Camisole, Cream | Small:
“Both Small and Medium fitted, but I chose Small for a closer fit. It’s wonderfully soft and stretchy, with comfortable, adjustable statement straps. I paired it with Savannah Jeans, an Evangeline Necklace and Pearl Vixen Petite Shoes for a St Kilda summer stroll!”
Rachel Kitten Wears...
Rachel's Fit Snapshot
Height: 165cm
Measurements: Bust 88cm, Waist 67cm, Hip 98cm
Usually Wears: between 6 and 8
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Day Dress | Size 6:
This gorgeous dress makes me think of an early-60s yacht party! I adore the sailor collar and mother-of-pearl buttons, but my favourite feature has to be those deceptively deep pockets. The fabric has a little stretch, so my size 6 fits beautifully. I find the belts on full dresses can be a little generous around my waist, so I tend to size down when there's stretch.
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Crop Jacket | Size 6:
I'm not usually one for sleeveless outfits, so a little jacket is a wardrobe essential! I absolutely love this gorgeous colour, and the lightweight, breathable fabric is perfect for summer.
I'm wearing a size 6, but I wish I'd chosen an 8. There's no stretch, and I found it a little snug through my shoulders and upper arms, so I couldn't button it comfortably. If you're broader through either area, I'd definitely recommend sizing up!
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Maxi Dress | Size 6:
“This dress is a 70s prom night dream! I love the floating off-the-shoulder sleeves, fitted waist and wonderfully airy skirt. It's perfect for garden parties, summer barbecues and those occasions when you want to feel a little glamorous without being overly formal.
As someone who doesn't usually wear sleeveless designs, I particularly appreciate the soft sleeves offering a little upper-arm coverage while keeping everything lovely and cool. I'd recommend choosing your size according to your bust measurement, as the higher waist tie is adjustable. Taller Kittens will adore the length, but with heels, I think it could work beautifully for shorter Kittens too!”
'The Mermaid and the Monster' Jersey Top (Blue) | Size XS:
“I'm often asked in-store what to wear if you love the Kitten D'Amour aesthetic but don't have many opportunities to dress up. Well, this top is my answer! The double-layer stretch cotton is buttery soft and almost feels like wearing pyjamas, but the gorgeous decorative straps and tailored shape make it so much more special than an everyday top. I've styled mine with jeans and a headband for a casual vintage look that's perfect for running errands.
I'd recommend staying with your usual Kitten size, or sizing down if you're between sizes, thanks to the lovely stretch. It's definitely a must-have from this collection!”
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