Four Scuba-Inspired Dresses Under $50 that Won’t Have You Looking All Washed Up

At Hervé Léger (left), contrast paneling meets a bodycon scuba feel. Derek Lam’s (center) Spring 2012 collection featured similar detailing, but in neoprene-esque fabrics that won’t have you diving off the deep end, while Michael Kors took the ultimate plunge into zip-me-up-tight neon.

But if you’re anything like me, you wouldn’t mind errr… wading into this trend.

So give it a try without looking all washed up with these tips:

1. Look for poly or nylon/spandex blend that most resembles a scuba suit’s neoprene. Shinier, but tighter knit fabrics offer the illusion, while letting you breathe.
2. Opt for colorblocked sheath dresses. Consider fit – perhaps one half size smaller will help you pay ultimate homage to this trend.
3. Don’t forget the exposed zipper, preferably in matching plastic.
4. Wade into the waters by opting for neon trimmings.
5. Strategic cutouts go a long way, also, to recreate this trend, if you so dare! But do stay away from mesh – it always, 100% looks tacky, no matter the pricetag.
6. Keep it sweet (and work appropriate) with a knee-length peplum skirt, caged back detailing and cut-away shoulders.

Okay, this trend is kooky, we can admit, so try it on a budget. Here are my picks, all under $50!

Bar III Front Row Dress ($22.29, macys.com), Trouve Colorblock Scuba Dress ($44.90, nordstrom.com), Neon Cage Back Scuba Dress ($26.99, charlotterusse.com), Paprika Jersey Contrast Peplum Cut Out Dress ($35.63, asos.com)