First tail (not for swimming)

[Alatariel]

Hi everyone, I've recently decided to make a tail, however i doubt that i will be swimming in it. I will just use it in an event and for pictures. I read all the threads about tailmaking but i would still like to get some feedback in what i think is the best option for me.
I decided to go with a latex/silicone tail hybrid, for time and budget reasons. I was thinking about making the tail out of some pretty spandex print, then glue some sequins onto it to give that 3d scale feel and then make the fluke out of silicone or latex, it would also have to be detachable since i will have to walk to get to, from and in some parts of the event. I read that one can attach the fluke to the tail using velcro, would that work for a silicone/latex fluke since it will be a little heavier than fabric? Or should i just attach the whole thing and have a zipper in the back where i can get my feet out?
Also, i was thinking of duct taping two swimming fins to give the fluke some shape as i don't want to spend $70+ on a monofin.
Anyways, i would really appreciate some input on this method and if someone has experience doing something like this, i would love to hear your thoughts!
Thanks in advance!:D

[Seatan]

I would attach it as the velcro would pull the heavier fluke away from the tail. As for fins... why use fins at all? If this is a cosplay costume and not a swimmable tail then you can make your foot pocket out of thick fabric or rubber. I know several people who have no knowledge of the mermaid community who have made mermaid cosplay and none of them actually used any kind of fin.

[PearlieMae]

Heck, you could make a fluke out of foam rubber.

Walkable mermaid costume: https://www.google.com/search?hl=en&site=imghp&tbm=isch&source=hp&biw=1207&bih=977&q=walkable+mermaid+costume&oq=walkable+mermaid+costume&gs_l=img.3...1151.5098.0.5364.24.10.0.14.14.0.194. 899.6j3.9.0....0...1ac.1.58.img..8.16.916.5YUu6mOM q4k

[Alatariel]

I wanted to go with a more "realistic" fluke, i will try not to be walking to much and will be making a big rock that i can sit on :)
Also i mentioned the fins cause maybe I will be able to do an underwater shoot, probably in a pool though.

[Seatan]

Then in that case it will need to be a "swimmable" tail unless you plan to just sit in the water. People have used dive fins for swimmable tails before.

[Alatariel]

Yeah that's probably a good idea. Thanks!
Do you know anyone that has combined spandex and a latex/silicone fluke? Is it a good idea?

[Yulia]

Yeah that's probably a good idea. Thanks!
Do you know anyone that has combined spandex and a latex/silicone fluke? Is it a good idea?

Aurore la Sirene makes fabric/silicone tails with a homemade monofin.

http://www.creationetventequeue.sitew.fr/#moitie_silicone.C

[Alatariel]

Thanks, I'll check it out!