Gigi Hadid
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 09: Gigi Hadid visits her popup store for her label ‘Guest in Residence on December 09, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Gotham/GC Images)

Mermaid-core is gaining newfound momentum this season. After Rita Ora appeared on the red carpet this month with literal gills emblazoned across her face one of our supermodels is giving the trend another chic update. Our favourite hair chameleon Gigi Hadid was photographed in New York City over the weekend with long blonde mermaid curls.

The model and designer was visiting a Guest in Residence activation in Manhattan and tied the ethereal curls into a half up do with a claw clip. To fight the December cold she wore a knitted cardigan with a Worn Vintage leather jacket, black denim maxi skirt and brown leather boots.

Gigi Hadid
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – DECEMBER 09: Gigi Hadid is seen visiting the popup store for her label ‘Guest In Residence’ on December 09, 2022 in New York City. (Photo by Gotham/GC Images)

Hadid is not the only celebrity to try mermaid curls – also known as ‘water waves’ – in 2022. It was given the gilded glamour treatment at the Met Gala in May with the likes of Kaia Gerber, Phoebe Dynevor and Sophie Turner trying the look. Zendaya, Dua Lipa and Kim Kardashian have also proved they’re a fan of the look.

It’s not as tricky as you might think to achieve. If you want to opt for a heat-free technique try twisting freshly-washed hair into a braid and sleeping on it overnight. Otherwise for a little more longevity we suggest trying a curling iron or specially-designed ‘waver’ as seen below. Is anyone else getting crimping flashbacks?

Volumising shampoo, heat spray and a mousse will ensure any curls stay bouncy all day long. Ariel could never.


Ori Lab Curl Cleanse & Condition Set. SHOP NOW


Max Pinnell Thickening Spray, $33. SHOP NOW


Mermade Pro Mini Hair Waver, $109. SHOP NOW