Since the 70s, bright colors, flower power, and funky patterns have never truly gone out of style. Though the trends have been experimented with throughout the years, chances are you’ll still catch people rocking floral dresses, neon tops, or statement slacks on a busy LA street in 2021.
Another retro look fashion-lovers refuse to leave in the past is one we’ve all probably sported ourselves: tie-dye. I mean, what’s not to love? You’re wearing an array of fun colors only made cooler by unique patterns and tie-dye pieces are like snowflakes—no two items are exactly alike. Throw it on and you’re instantly one-of-a-kind and trendy.
What makes it better? The fact you can make your own at home.
Tie-dye has always been a popular DIY activity, but put a bunch of restless, uninspired people in their houses for months on end to avoid a global pandemic, and guess what happens? A whole lot of it.
In fact, according to Business Insider, “listings and purchases for tie-dye apparel increased by 75% for women and 100% for men” in March, April, and May of 2020 when compared to numbers from 2019. Add to that the fact that popular clothing brands hopped on the bandwagon to increase sales, and you’ll find basically every influencer and celebrity has at least one tie-dye garment that’s a current staple in their wardrobe.
Here are a few of my favorites:
It’s no surprise we’re starting off with hit singer and songwriter Madison Beer. On top of killer vocals and thoughtful lyrics, Beer is constantly applauded for her ability to stay on top of trends while still sporting a unique fashion sense that’s true to her. This matching blue tie-dye sweatsuit is a perfect example.
If we’re going to be lounging in sweats 90% of the time, why not kick things up a notch with bright colors and a sick pattern, right? Of course, Beer has to make things even cuter by tying her sweatshirt around the shoulders, pairing it with a cropped tank, and adding dainty jewelry and shades, but one thing is for sure: tie-dye sweatsuits have taken the fashion-world by storm (and they probably will for a long time).
Want to take your tie-dye some place tropical? Take some notes from model and fashion influencer Matilda Djerf and you could be hitting the beach or lounging by the pool like a groovy, glowing goddess in no-time. By pairing her simple white bikini with this vibrant tie-dye swimsuit cover up, her outfit practically radiates the sweetness and ease brought by springtime.
Another thing Djerf’s look beautifully showcases is how creative you can get with tie-dye colors and patterns. Though most of us imagine the iconic rainbow swirl when thinking about tie-dye garments, it’s 2021 now ladies and gents—our tie-dye possibilities are truly endless. So, if you want to be a trend-setter like Djerf, don’t shy away from pastel colors and subtle prints when purchasing (or making) your own tie-dye piece.
You know a trend is going to be big when Urban Outfitters incorporates it into their latest collection. Though the mega-popular brand has released their fair share of tie-dye oversized shirts and sweatpants in the past, the way they spiced this piece up with a little tie-dye action gets two thumbs up from me.
Who doesn’t love waking up in the morning and sipping their coffee while bundled up in a waffle-knit robe? Now, instead of having to buy one in a plain color or plaid pattern like grandpa loves to wear (grandpa, if you’re reading this, please don’t be offended), you can invest in this little tie-dyed item and feel like a 70s star the second you start your day.
Want to wear tie-die without overpowering your outfit? No need to fear! The design looks just as adorable on accessories. Fashion and lifestyle blogger Lauren Ladnier is known for her love of bright colors and cute patterns, so the fact she embraced tie-dye during quarantine is no surprise. However, like many of her fashion choices, the way she took on tie-dye was exceptionally unique.
Giving this basic white bucket hat a pink and purple makeover was a genius idea, especially when in need of something to pair with a fun graphic tee like the one in this photo. The best thing about the look? It’s one you too can easily do at home. If you feel like tie-dying a shirt or sweatpants is going to end in disaster, starting with something small like a hat or a pair of socks is the perfect way to do a creative DIY while also ensuring you’ll get an adorable final product like Ladnier’s.
Mhm, you heard it here first folks, the trend is also incredibly kid-friendly. It’s no secret that Stormi Webster is one of the world’s most well-dressed toddlers (I mean, how can you not be when Kylie Jenner is dressing you every day?), so I thought having this look serve as the cherry on top of the list would be the perfect way to finish it off.
Her graphic tee would pair adorably with anything, but the fact the baby blue in her top perfectly compliments her slacks and shoes shows just how on top of the fashion game she is. This ridiculously cool tie-dye fit paired with her casual pose and sweet smile solidifies that she’s mastered the art of serving looks at the ripe age of 3.
The Beat @APU 