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WHAT IS MERMING?
Mermaiding or Merming (also referred to as artistic mermaiding, mermaidry, or artistic mermaid performance) is the practice of wearing, and often swimming in, a costume mermaid tail.
This activity is not just for kids! While there are many professional merfolk who perform at aquariums, circuses, festivals, parties, and events, there is also a very large community of hobbyists who partake in and enjoy this form of cosplay.
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Cosplay is the act of dressing up as a character or concept. People who do it regularly are called ‘cosplayers’. Cosplayers may also go above and beyond copying their character’s outfits – they might even ‘role-play’ as characters, copying their mannerisms and gestures.
It is by tapping into this wonderful concept of 'play' that we connect with our inner child and reach a level of happiness we thought was gone forever! Dressing as a mermaid also allows for the creation of some stunning imagery through photography and digital artistry. This is where we shine!
MONOFINS
What's underneath
While different tail makers offer different styles of tails, most tails on the market today (except full silicone tails) are made up of a monofin, which goes under a fabric, spandex, or scuba knit tail skin.
SKINS
What goes on top!
Fabric, spandex, and scuba knit skins come in a wonderful variety of shapes, sizes, styles, and colors. These usually have pockets that fit the monofin and they work together to make the complete mermaid costume.
SWIMMING
How do you do it?
Swimming safely requires practice and training but it's a blast and a great workout for the core!
The primary technique involves the dolphin kick which leverages the power of the fin to propel you forward. Different styles of monofins can have different levels of propulsion depending on their stiffness and flexibility.
MAKE-UP AND ACCESSORIES
Tops, Wigs, Crowns, and other finery
No look would be complete without the details! How you build your mersona is completely up to you!
FULL SILICONE TAILS
A serious commitment
Many professional merfolk and devoted enthusiasts make the serious financial commitment to invest in a full silicone tail. This usually comes after years of practice in a fabric skin w/ a monofin and after saving up as these usually start at over $1,500.00.
WHO ARE OCEAN STATE MERFOLK?
We are a community of artists and free spirits who embrace the sense of play that is found through merming. We encourage others to tap into that amazing feeling by offering meet-ups, organizing swims, teaching classes, and fostering the merming and conservation community in and around Rhode Island. In addition, our team specializes in capturing amazing images and video to celebrate and commemorate the merming experience.
ARE YOU READY TO GIVE IT A TRY?
How to get started
Contact us for an opportunity to try Mertailor tails and swim with the Ocean State Merfolk!
GET IN TOUCH!
If you are interested in having your own merming experience please reach out!