Ariel Costume Guide

Dress like Ariel with a shell bikini, green mermaid skirt, green tights, and matching heels.

Ariel Cosplay: At a Glance

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Estimated cost: $45–$85
  • Time required: 15–30 minutes
  • Main colors: Purple, green and red
  • Best for: Mermaid parties, summer dress-up and Little Mermaid couples costumes

ABOUT ARIEL:

Unfulfilled with her life under the sea and enamored with a man she frequently sees on shore, Ariel seeks out the help of the sea witch Ursula to transform her into a human.

Ursula grants Ariel’s wishes. However, it is all part of a plot to see the sea witch take control of the undersea kingdom of Atlantica from Ariel’s father, King Triton.

With the help of her new love, Prince Eric, Ariel is able to defeat Ursula and restore peace to Atlantica in true Disney fashion.

  • Difficulty: Easy
  • Estimated cost: $45–$85
  • Time required: 15–30 minutes
  • Main colors: Purple, green and red
  • Best for: Mermaid parties, summer dress-up and Little Mermaid couples costumes

How To Dress Like Ariel

1. BIKINI – We started with an adorable seashell bikini ‘top’ in a light purple. 

2. SKIRT – You have tons of options when it comes to recreating Ariel’s mermaid tail. We chose a shimmery mini skirt with a scaly print.

3. LEGGINGS – If you decide to go for a mini skirt, a pair of glittery green fishnets can really tie this whole sexy Little Mermaid costume together.

4. FOOTWEAR – The rhinestones on these heels add a water-droplet quality that is just perfect for this outfit.

5. WIG – No Little Mermaid outfit is complete without her signature red hair. If you don’t feel like dying your hair then a long red wig is the ideal solution.

6. SEBASTIAN – Because every mermaid needs her trusty sidekicks, this adorable Sebastian plush adds an extra-cute dimension to this otherwise non-PG outfit.

7. FLOUNDER – Don’t worry Flounder, we didn’t forget about you. Can’t decide on your favorite sidekick? Choose both!

Ariel (Little Mermaid) costume guide.

Discover All Our Disney Outfit Ideas for Women

Seeing Ariel from The Little Mermaid for the first time was a watershed moment for many young men and women. You’re not sure what it is that makes her so alluring but you know you like her!

Now it’s time to make everyone’s wildest dreams come true. A sexy Ariel costume is a fun and easy way to spice up any Halloween event or themed party. How lucky are your friends and loved ones?

Still not convinced? Check out more of our favorite homemade Ariel costumes, each of which inspired us while creating our own DIY guide.

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Ariel Costume: FAQ

Can you dress as Ariel without wearing a mermaid tail?

Yes. A green skirt with a scale print gives the impression of Ariel’s tail while leaving your legs free to walk and dance. Pair it with a purple seashell top, as shown in this guide. A longer green skirt works too if you prefer more coverage.

What are the essential pieces for an adult Ariel costume?

The purple top, green bottoms and red hair create the clearest Ariel look. Our outfit adds sparkling fishnets and green heels, but you can build a simpler version around those three main features. Sebastian and Flounder plushies are optional finishing touches.

Which characters go with Ariel for a Little Mermaid group?

Prince Eric makes a straightforward costume partner, while Ursula creates a fun heroine-and-villain pairing. For a larger group, add King Triton, Sebastian or Flounder. Ariel also fits into a Disney princess group with Rapunzel and Snow White.

What shoes work with a mermaid skirt?

Green heels continue the tail’s color, while silver sandals suit the shimmery undersea theme. For a long evening, flat sandals are an easy alternative. With a fitted skirt, try sitting and taking a full stride before choosing your shoes.

How can you make an Ariel costume more covered up?

Swap the bikini-style top for a purple camisole or fitted T-shirt, and choose a knee-length or maxi skirt in green. You can keep the same red wig and sea-themed accessories. The recognizable color combination matters more than the amount of skin showing.

Does an Ariel wig need to be styled into curls?

No. Long, bright-red hair is enough to suggest Ariel, whether you wear it straight or loosely waved. A side part with volume around the forehead adds a closer character detail. Brush the wig gently and keep the front sections away from your face.