Fashion Challenge: Wear Something Tie-Dyed
One of my favorite things about summertime is the abundance of bright colors, especially in everyone’s wardrobe! Tie dye is one of my favorite patterns — it’s less common than stripes or floral prints, but unique enough to stand out in a crowd. It has a laid-back vibe to it that makes it perfect for a day at the beach, running errands, or even on a fun date.
Want to rock tie dye but need a little inspiration? Read on!
Tips and Tricks for Rocking Tie Dye
- Since it’s summer and you probably have a little free time, why not indulge in a little DIY project? Pick up a pack of Hanes white v-necks and get to work, or spruce up a white sorority or club t-shirt.
- I know I’m preaching to the choir, but to keep from looking like a flower child, don’t pair tie-dyed tees or dresses with anything too hippie-esque. Tie dye paired with John Lennon sunglasses, crocheted vests, or hippie headbands could give off an overly costume-y effect.
- Tie-dyed tees don’t have to be a rainbow of colors — my favorite kinds of tie dye are shades of one color, giving the piece an acid wash feel.
- Try pairing a tie dyed shirt with a contrasting piece. A boho-chic top would look cool with a preppy pair of khaki shorts, or a girly floral-print mini skirt.
- Look for items that aren’t usually tie dyed, like skirts, headbands, or even canvas shoes!
- Tie dye print is about feeling free and fun! Don’t get too caught up in fashion rules; feel free to experiment.
Outfit Inspiration
A breezy tie dye dress like this one is a great starting point for an outfit. Up the style factor with a brown waist belt, summery espadrilles, and a chic headband. This outfit is perfect for a picnic with the family, a date with a summer fling, or a night out with your college girlfriends!
Took the Challenge? Send Us Proof!
Did you wear tie dye this week? Send us some snapshots and we’ll feature them here (and in return, link to your blog so you’ll get a little extra traffic!) Attach your photos along with your name, school, blog URL if you have one, and a few styling tips to fashionchallenge AT collegefashion.net.
Can’t wait to see what you girls send us!
Thoughts?
How do you feel about tie dye? Do you wear it year round, or just whip it out in the summer? How do you like to style it? Let us know what you think by leaving us a comment!
Posted on on July 7, 2011 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: 1960s, Fashion Challenge, Outfits, Patterns, Tie Dye, Trends
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Ritu
I generally shy away from tie-dye because it always reminds me of bad summer camp T-shirts, but I love the dresses in this post! I’ll definitely be on the look out for one now.
Carolyn
I tried this recently! I have a dress with a blue tie dye print that I paired with a brown belt. It is comfortable and looks stylishly casual for a summer day. It also requires few accessories because the pattern stands out on its own. :)
Adriana
tie dye is one of the hardest prints to pull off tastefully, in my opinion. It looks great in the celebrity photos. i especially like the last two (next to Pamela Anderson), but I’m having trouble deciphering who they are and who they’re wearing…any ideas? Thanks!
cassie
@ Adriana that is nicole richie and Hayden Panettiere
Adriana
oh…i didn’t know she dyed her hair, again. Thanks! Really cute dresses. Do you know who they might be wearing? Now I’m really interested in finding an awesome tie dye dress this summer!
TBS
I like tie dye when done originally. Love the outfit!
Tricia
Speaking of bad summer camp t-shirts. I get to wear tie dye daily as a counselor… I’ll definatly pass on this one
tracey
@Adriana its actually Ashley Tisdale and Hayden Panettiere
Adriana
@Tracey Thanks! I didn’t realize she was so tiny. I like the one shoulder…any idea who makes it?
Danielle
i love that dress. i haven’t seen many like it. :)
Emmy
I got a multicoloured Billabong tie-dye dress for 5$ a few years ago. I assume people were too shy to give it a try… To tone down the ”happy camper” feel of the dress, I usually pair it with a white/cream cardi, nude flats and vintage white earrings.
Jess
I really like the example dress. It’s subtly tie dye, not the typical bright swirl type. I think that’s the key to making tie dye fashionable :)
FIDM Fashion Club
Tie-dye can be a difficult trend to wear but I am loving how these celebs pull it off with such ease and style! These tips are great and I totally didn’t know that you could wear a tie dyed outfit with shades of the same color! I thought tie dyed meant hippie, multi-colors! Totally cool! Thanks for the helpful tips :)