How Tie-Dye Went From Summer Camp to Street Style

Once a beloved summer camp staple, now a high-fashion regular, tie-dye has become an eclectic, yet luxurious design that can spice up any wardrobe without feeling too mature. This summer, the print, and psychedelically-inspired abstract iterations, have taken bold-patterned dressing to a whole new level.

The hypnotic swirls briefly saw a runway renaissance through the 2010s, enticing designers like Prada and Rabanne to throw their hats into the dye-filled mix. However, this time around, the trend feels less mid-aughts-DIY and more retro-resurgence. The rise in popularity of the playful pattern taps into fashion’s current penchant for throwbacks. Whether it be archive pulls on the red carpet, ’70s and ’80s recreations on the runway, or digging in the back of a drawer in your childhood bedroom, we can’t help but fondly return to our fashion roots.

“We’re seeing tie-dye emerge across luxury fashion and accessories because it speaks to a collective desire for individuality, optimism, and a touch of nostalgia,” Emily P. Wheeler, founder of her eponymous label, tells ELLE. As a fine jewelry designer, Wheeler struck a balance with her “Resistance” collection, which debuted during couture earlier this year. She was inspired to use the centuries-old tradition as a modern technique. The centerpiece: a pair of tie-dye spiral earrings, priced at $36,000. She adds, “Luxury consumers today want pieces that feel personal and expressive, and tie-dye—when done with intention—delivers that in a fresh, elevated way.”

As much as we may treasure that worn-out camp T-shirt that no longer fits, chic Auteur Studio cut-out slip dresses, Dries Van Noten oversized structured sweatshirts (printed with an abstracted orchid, resembling the tie-dye effect), and Celine baseball caps firmly place this summer’s swirling enthusiasm into the present moment. Not to mention, tie-dye is one of the few loud, youthful prints that can be dressed up or dressed down. Whether it be through adding a pop of color with a Chloé clutch for a formal occasion, or keeping it relaxed on the beach with a lightweight Gabriela Hearst top, tie-dye is the new go-to for summer dressing.