How to wear tie dye

The quintessential tie-dye look, this outfit makes the best of loose layers and breezy fabrics to cope with even the most persistent of heatwaves. 

Mango’s gently flared trousers elongate the leg and add curves, complimenting the tightness of the vest top and the laid-back Birkenstocks. Throw on a button-down sheer dress over the top to shield delicate shoulders from the sun, and use a tote bag to stash all your essentials—including a much-coveted beach spray, which will give even the finest of hair a holiday-worthy wave.  

Intimissi Vest, £7.50 | Mango Trousers, £39.99 | Zara Cover Up Blouse, £49.99 | Birkenstock Sandals, £35, Primark Bracelet, £3 | Kitsch Kitchen Tote Bag, £15.49 | Beached Urban Waves Texturizing Hairspray, £17

Great for a date night or semi-formal occasion, this look uses pops of romantic red and punchy green in the accessories to compliment the subtle tie-dye of this grown-up Topshop skirt. 

A well-fitted crop top needn’t be feared—this Karen Millen number skims the high waist of the fitted skirt, eliminating any tucked-in bulk around the waist. 

When wearing a midi skirt, chunky heels are much more flattering than stilettos. These espadrille styles perfectly compliment a quirky crocus clutch bag without distracting from the interesting silhouette of the skirt. 

Karen Millen Top, £30 | Topshop Skirt, £39 | And Other Stories Clutch Bag, £27 | Orelia Necklace, £11 | Nails Inc Nail Varnish, £9 | Este Lauder Pure Colour Lipstick, £27 | Head Over Heels Sandals, £45

A pleasing update to the “jeans-and-a-nice-top” uniform that works for so many occasions, this delicate pleated top from H&M is grown-up tie dye at it’s best, with a pretty shade of blue that compliments all skin tones. Team with dark jeans (bonus points for some 90’s ankle fraying) and beachy accessories—anything in a feminine gold or shell motif works well. 

In this heat, a full face of makeup isn’t particularly appealing. Opt for a gentle glow with Bodyshop’s CC Cream, or layer under minimal make-up to ensure staying power. With a range of colours, you can find your perfect skin tone match. 

H&M Cami, £19.99 | The Outnet Jeans, £142 | Kurt Geiger Sandals, £40 | Bodyshop Instaglow CC Cream, £15 | Oliver Bonas Earrings, £12.50 | Marks & Spencer Bag, £19.50 | Rotary Watch, £127

Summer is wedding season, and if you’re served the honour of a bridal party role, tie dye can be a surprising winner. This Roman Originals dresses uses romantic shades of pink to create a beautiful waterfall effect. Accessorise in paler shades of the hue to stick to the wedding theme, and remember an open toe heel—much more comfortable for the temperature. 

Gold accents work much better than silver with pink, warming the complexion. Revolution’s Jewel Palette has everything you need to add a delicate shimmer, and is exactly the right size to pop in your customised clutch for any touch-ups at the reception. 

Roman Originals Dress, £30 | Coast Fascinator, £25 | Debenhams Shrug Jacket, £12.99 | Revoution Jewel Collection Eyeshadow Palette, £10 | Katie Loxton Clutch Bag, £16.99 | Clarks Sandals, £49

Trends aren’t reserved for the teenagers, and our most fashion-forward look of the bunch is perfect for a summer spent adventuring with the family. 

Channelling a more 90s interpretation of the tie dye look, layer a sheer shirt and matching trainers with a practical jumpsuit, paring down the colour without losing any of the fun. 

A plastic handbag is a nostalgic optional accessory, as is a bucket hat—surprisingly flattering on most face shapes and highly protective from the sun’s rays. 

Finish by focusing in on your eyes. Glossier’s lidstar easily applies shimmer to your eyelids without the hassle of a full palette, while Mac’s Brow kit perfectly frames with three blendable colours. Both pieces fit into even the smallest of bags or pockets, leaving you hands-free to embrace the day. 

New Look High Neck Top, £6 | John Lewis Jumpsuit, £79 | Village Hats bucket Hat, £9.95 | Skinny Dip Bag, £7.50 | Glossier Lidstar Eyeshadow, £15 | Mac Great Brows Palette, £23 | Converse Trainers, £75

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