There is a new trend emerging on the Alabama campus, though the idea behind it isn’t new at all. Tie-dye has been around since even before our parents wore it in the ‘60s, but much to my happiness, it seems that more and more people are jumping on the band wagon with the Merry Pranksters. A friend recently pointed out the surge of the trippy trend, and as I walked to my classes Tuesday I realized he was right. I saw at least 25 swirly tee donning students on campus, and that was just after I started counting. Thankfully, this is a trend I can endorse (unlike the rampage of neon tanks, which I still maintain are faux pas), and in this week’s fashion column I would like to give a few pointers on how to rock the look this summer, and become a nouveau hippie.
When going to class, tie-dye should be worn with a sense of irony. We all know you didn’t just leave a Stones concert or walk off the set of Almost Famous so I good start is to pair it with some modern items. For girls and guys alike, Chacos are a great accent for summer wear with shorts while you’re heading to class. If you don’t own a pair—yet—any type of sandal or flip-flop should do the trick. Add some shorts (not denim, preferably) or jeans and a Kavu bag or backpack for guys, and you’re ready to hit the books, a music festival, or hike outside for a while. Clearly, this is a multi-functional fashion.
For ladies, don’t be afraid to take the tie-dye fashion out for the night. The look allows you to be dressed up without looking too overdone. Designers such as Proenza Schouler and Blumarine can be held responsible for bringing this trend to life for Summer 2010, but you can find great versions at lower prices at places like Forever 21 and Urban Outfitters. When sporting this amazing fad, pair pieces with sandals and long necklaces for a complete, yet not too cliché, look.
So, now you know. Go talk to your t-shirt chair and tell him that you want your next band party shirt to be tie-dyed, go find a shop that sells shirts with your favorite band on it, visit some cool restaurant near the beach, or just take matters into your own hands and create a work of art by yourself. The possibilities are endless and this summer, everybody’s doing it.