Every now and then a micro-trend comes along between seasons to disrupt the status quo and remind us that, when it comes to fashion, anything is possible. Right now, tie-dye is that very trend. It made a quiet return in SS16, but as the Resort 2017 collections hit, it looked like a reinvention of this 90s staple was afoot.
‘Resort? What’s that?’ you might be thinking. Well, while most of us aren’t jetting off to St Tropez or the Bahamas for the winter, the fashion jet-set usually are, which is why designers release these pre-collection pieces as a lead in to their traditional spring/summer collections. What it means is that we can get a pretty good glimpse at what they might be thinking for next year ahead of time. And right now they’re thinking tie-dye.
Designers showed tie-dye patterns across a range of pieces, from lightweight separates to outerwear. Forget the tired old 90s style grunge tie-dyes though - it was a fresh new version of the trend that hit the catwalks this time around.
Acne Studio dipped the bottom of a skirt in a tie-dye, proving that less can indeed be more when it comes to this loud print. Gucci, on the other hand, decided quite the opposite. Their tie-dye jeans were standouts, styled with other loud and quirky styles: think a loud leopard print coat paired with tie-dye trousers.
It seems that tie-dye has well and truly grown up, so it’s time to ditch the day-glo T-shirt variety and look to a more muted colour palette for inspiration.
How to style tie-dye
At Paris Fashion Week, street style star Veronika Heilbrunner kept her tie-dye casual by opting for muted autumnal shades and pairing with lace up ankle boots. The loose wavy hair and simple gold chain let the print do the talking.
In contrast, Alessandra Ambrosio went ‘beach bum’ style in her tie-dye shift dress, pairing with a simple pair or toe-post flat sandals, round reflective shades and beaded bracelets. A strong look, but perhaps harder to pull off in the city.
Italian socialite and model Bianca Brandolini d'Adda brought a little more luxe to the look, wearing this luxe tie-dye ensemble to the Valentino Spring/Summer shows this year. The carefully placed leather belt, beaded clutch and glossy mane ensured that this tie-dye look was five star all the way.
Ready to shop the look? Check out our 11 tie-dye pieces to invest in right now below.
11 tie-dye buys for AW16
1 of 11Boohoo.com India tie dye woven jogger £14
These casual joggers are the perfect item for layering under a winter coat for a Gucci-inspired look Boohoo.com India tie dye woven jogger £14
2 of 11Cheap Monday tie dye mini skirt £49
A denim skirt is this season's must-have wardrobe staple, but why not take it up a notch by going for this tie-dye version instead? Cheap Monday tie dye mini skirt £49
3 of 11French Connection tie dye hem mini skirt now £22
This little beauty is currently in the sale, so grab this fashion-forward bargain while you still can! French Connection tie dye hem mini skirt now £22
4 of 11House of Fraser Label Lab stripe tie dye split back blouse now £31.50
This split back top would look great with a skinny jean and leather jacket for a more 'rock chick' take on the look House of Fraser Label Lab stripe tie dye split back blouse now £31.50
5 of 11House of Holland mini bucket blue tie dye bag
We simply adore this gorgeous tie dye bag from House of Holland - it's a loud and proud way to wear this iconic look House of Holland mini bucket blue tie dye bag
6 of 11New Look Blue Tie Dye Abstract Print Joggers £17.99
If you don't want to spend a fortune getting the look, these joggers from New Look are an absolute bargain and would look great with ankle boots for winter New Look Blue Tie Dye Abstract Print Joggers £17.99
7 of 11Raquel Allegra tie-dyed silk-charmeuse midi dress £535
For those who like their tie-dye looks a bit more luxe, this little Net-a-porter find is a fabulous addition to your wardrobe this season Raquel Allegra tie-dyed silk-charmeuse midi dress £535
8 of 11The Elder Statesman tie-dyed cashmere sweater £940
A classic cashmere sweater with a tie-dye twist - we're loving this unique take on the tie-dye trend The Elder Statesman tie-dyed cashmere sweater £940
9 of 11Topshop tie-dye tee dress £29
Trust Topshop to come up with this great little layering piece - ideal to wear over tights and with flat ankle boots when the weather gets colder Topshop tie-dye tee dress £29
10 of 11Topshop twist back maxi dress £22
This simple and understated maxi is a great way to pick up on the tie-dye trend in a more subtle way this season Topshop twist back maxi dress £22
11 of 11Zara tie-dye accordion pleat skirt £49.99.jpg
Zara's pleated tie-dye skirt is a great piece that can be dressed up or down as the occasion requires this season Zara tie-dye accordion pleat skirt £49.99
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