What is behind our continued obsession with tie-dye? And when I say ‘our’, I mean everyone, not just the fashion crowd. While the trend might have exploded on the runways a few seasons ago (Dior, Proenza Schouler and Versace, to name a few), it wasn’t until we hit the first lockdown that the trend suddenly became the print du jour, with online global shopping platform Lyst reporting a huge increase in searches for the print last year. I think part of its appeal is to do with its roots—most recently in ’60s hippie culture and as such is associated with a more laid-back lifestyle. In a world where anxiety is, understandably, at an all-time high, tie-dye gives the impression of being more chilled out even when you probably aren’t.
Personally, my motivation for wearing tie-dye is somewhere in between all the above reasons. I like the surfer-vibes of tie-dye but I also very much love how various designers have made it look high end, especially when it comes to the Proezna Schouler second skin tops. However, at over £200 these pieces are a little out of my price range, which is why when I discovered a very similar looking piece from M&S, I was thrilled. The dark blue top is just the right shade of navy and it has a tie-dye pattern in horizontal stripes. When tucked into linen trousers, worn under dresses or just with jeans it still looks premium. Below, you’ll see three outfits I’ve styled wearing the top. It’s one I know I’ll be wearing all summer and beyond.
Elinor wearing the M&S tie-dye top, Uniqlo linen trousers, and Who What Wear sandals. Style Notes: Despite the fact that I’m five months pregnant, these linen trousers from Uniqlo really give some stretch (tip for all you pregnant people out there). I like to tuck the M&S top into the waist band and pair with these super cool sandals from the Who What Wear collection.
Elinor wearing the top tucked into white linen trousers
Elinor wearing the M&S top, a Rails dress, hat from & Other Stories and Arizona Love sandals. Style Notes: This is the ideal outfit for a British summer, in my opinion. The truth is that sometimes a sleeveless dress just isn’t going to keep you warm enough. However, when worn with the tie-dye top underneath, you’ve got some great layering going on. Wear with a matching bucket hat and sandals if you so wish.
Elinor wearing the M&S top with a vintage gold chain necklace
Elinor wearing M&S tie-dye top and M&S maternity jeans. Style Notes: Perhaps the outfit I’ve worn the most of late—the M&S top with M&S maternity jeans and a pair of Converse.
Next up, the biggest autumn/winter 2021 fashion trends to know.
