Sara Paxton Transforms into Aquamarine, Conch Included, During NYFW — 19 Years After Movie’s Release

Sara Paxton Makes a Splash at New York Fashion Week, Channeling Aquamarine Character 19 Years Later

Actress Sara Paxton surprised her fans recently by transforming into her famous character, Aquamarine, at New York Fashion Week. The 37-year-old actress made a special appearance at Tyler McGillivary’s “Mermaiden” show on September 12th, walking the runway in a mermaid-inspired look reminiscent of the 2006 film. Paxton, known for her role as Aquamarine alongside Emma Roberts and Joanna “JoJo” Levesque, closed out the show in a stunning seaweed green sheer gown, complete with pleated detailing, an open back, and a conch accessory in her hand as a tribute to her character.

The Spring/Summer 2026 collection by Tyler McGillivary was a nod to mermaids and the ocean, drawing inspiration from Aquamarine and the designer’s love for mermaid lore. Videos shared on social media captured Paxton’s radiant smile as she strutted down the catwalk at the Wavertree Ship at Pier 17 in New York City. Her glamorous look featured romantic waves in her honey blonde hair, a modern take on the beauty trends from the early 2000s. The actress’s ensemble was completed with nostalgic flip-flop wedges, evoking memories of the iconic film.

Paxton, who was a prominent figure in teen cinema in the early 2000s, is known for her roles in films like Return to Halloweentown and Sleepover. While she has since ventured into more serious projects such as the horror film “Barbarian” and the Marilyn Monroe-inspired movie “Blonde,” Paxton still holds a special place in her heart for Aquamarine. In a 2024 interview with PEOPLE, the actress revealed that she fondly remembers the cultural impact of the film and even took home her starfish earrings from the set.

The actress shared insights into the intricate details of her iconic fish prosthetic from the movie, disclosing that each tail was valued at a million dollars and crafted from NASA rubber and glass, consisting of 5,000 scales. Despite not being able to keep the prop, Paxton cherishes the memories of being in the elaborate costume, recounting moments when she had to be carried on a stretcher and left on the floor in between takes. Her enduring connection to the character of Aquamarine speaks to the lasting impression the film has had on her career and personal life.

Sara Paxton’s appearance at New York Fashion Week was a delightful throwback for fans of the beloved film and a testament to the enduring popularity of her character, Aquamarine. As the actress continues to explore diverse roles in her career, her walk down the runway as a modern-day mermaid served as a nostalgic reminder of the magic of cinema and fashion coming together in a unique and enchanting way. Paxton’s embodiment of Aquamarine after almost two decades since the film’s release is a testament to her timeless charm and the enduring appeal of the beloved character.