TIE-DYE!

Tie-dye, that '90s hippie and surferesque splattered print, is one of the biggest trends of Spring Summer '19. Just look at the runways (Prada, Proenza, R13), high street (Topshop, Urban Outfitters, Free People) and magazines (British Vogue, Harper's BAZAAR UK, ES) for all the psychedelic evidence...



ES Magazine 12.04.19
The practice began in Peru 500 to 810 AD. The technique then moved East to Japan where it was dubbed Shibori. China also incorporated it in the Tang Dynasty. Fast forward centuries and the print came into prominence in the '60s and early '70s hippie and surf culture of the West. The process was inexpensive and symbolised individuality and rebellion, a key feeling in the air at the time. Young Americans opposed traditional standards of dressing and the ongoing Vietnam War and craved simplicity, creativity and freedom. Musicians like Janis Joplin and Jimi Hendrix made the design evermore popular and Woodstock of 1969 was a sea of psychedelia. Tie-dye died in the late '70s early '80s as rock and early disco took over. The rainbow re-emerged in the '90s thanks to a popularity in rave music and skateboard culture and films like Clueless helped bring it back into the mainstream.

Now modern, luxury designers have gone all peace and love with their new SS19 collections. Models at Prada were rocking tie-dye skirts with matching baguettes and Stella McCartney's girls were head to toe denim acid wash. Proenza ruled the roost when it came to the nostalgic nod with an exquisite gold and black tie-dye dress as well as a gorgeous v-shaped velvet number. Ralph Lauren have also added a twist (quite literally) to their classic hoodies and jumpers. The trippiness has also tricked down onto the high street with Topshop, Urban Outfitters, Converse and Vans all getting in on the psychedelic action. 

Prada Etiquette Printed Leather Bag

Nº21 Tie Dye Cropped Jacket

Vans Authentic Shoes

Celebrities and supermodels have also jumped on the kaleidoscope bandwagon including Gigi Hadid, Miley Cyrus, Beyonce and Diplo...

As random and out there as it may seem, the trend is in fact perfectly fitting for a current climate of individuality and freedom. Just look at the recent shift towards diversity and inclusivity on runways and magazine covers (Adwoa Aboah, Aweng Chuol) and the international fight for freedom (LGBTQ+, Hong Kong, Iran 🕊). They do say fashion takes inspiration from its surroundings so perhaps designers are sending out an important message to leaders of the world. A Sai Ta of London label Asai puts it perfectly to Harpers BAZAAR UK: "It’s as relevant to the times now as it was in the counter movement of the hippies. It’s a reflection of freedom and hope." 

There is also that other major trend of sustainability in abundance with tie-dye as it is traditionally known for being very artisan and handmade. Kavita Kumari, a specialist print and dye technician at LCF believes that "the current awareness around buzz words like 'fast-fashion' and sustainability is probably partly responsible for the regeneration of tie-dye in fashion today." 

So forget florals and hop on the hippie train this Spring Summer. Wondering how to incorporate it into your everyday wardrobe without looking like a '90s art project? Then I would suggest keeping the print to one piece such as a pair of jeans, top or bag. If you want to go all out, a bodycon or midi dress is a great idea. Topshop have some good examples such as these Tie Dye Joggers or if you prefer something more subtle, there are these Rust Tie Dye Mom Jeans. Urban Outfitters have a surfer girl Ombre Tie-Dye Long-Sleeve Crop T-Shirt and Free People have a Psychedelic Turtleneck Top in a variety of colours. There is also this black and white Washed Tie Dye Tee perfect for the emos and rockers. If you are ready to splash (literally) the cash, NET-A-PORTER have a fabulous selection including Maria La Rosa Batik Tie-Dyed Stretch-Knit Socks and a Prada Tie-Dyed Cotton-Canvas Visor.