I remember tie dye in the 1990s in the form of ill-fitting t-shirts and shorts, Keds sneakers, bandanas and hideous backpacks. If you are a part of a different generation that grew up in the 1960s, maybe you remember tie dye as it was paired with fringed vests or worn as printed mini dresses. No matter what era you remember tie dye patterns, the good news is if you did indeed enjoy it, it’s back! You can and should wear the tie dye trend 2020 when you’re over 40.
If you would have told me five years ago that tie dye was going to make a huge comeback I would have laughed. But here it is and I am loving the way it’s being done. We can almost smell the sweet air of the spring time, even while we need take this time to stay at home. What better way to celebrate the arrival of the warmer weather than to explore all of the colorful and modern tie dye fashion for 2020.
Tie Dye Trend On The Runway
The runway shows were stunning with many of the designers really playing up the tie dye trend. Some of the standouts for me were the Versace and Alberta Ferretti shows. Versace is never one to disappoint. The Spring 2020 show featured tie dye pieces in separates like lush, satin-y midi length skirts, suiting and sparkling dresses. The rich greens and pinks gave off a very tropical vibe with subtle hints of floral patterns to seal the deal. Also in the collection were tie dyed tights and shoes which complimented the collection beautifully. The tie dye looks were sophisticated and chic for women over 40.
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The Alberta Ferretti spring 2020 collection showcased tie dye in a bit of a different way; still with splashy colors but with the tie dye details more concentrated. The jumpsuits with focused tie dye horizontal stripes paired with matching tote bags were my favorite. They were featured in muted colors like khaki and denim, as well as bright colors like fuchsia and purple. I liked how the tie dye patterns were downplayed, but still stood out. Even someone who was timid about trying tie dye for the first time would find the pieces from the Alberta Ferretti runway incredibly wearable.
How To Wear Tie Dye When You’re Over 40
It’s actually pretty easy to take tie dye to an elevated level, something I think we all may have missed the mark on had we decided to wear it during either of the previous eras in which it was trendy. For spring 2020, many of the designers and brands made choosing the right tie dye items a breeze with tie dye women’s tops, tie dye women’s dresses and much more to pick from.
Being the ultimate shoe woman that I am, I am partial to some sky-high platforms in a subtle tie dye print like these Jimmy Choo Jax Platform Sandals. These would look perfect with almost any lightweight spring dress and denim topper or with a pair of loose-fitting, cropped jeans and slouchy sweater.
If you want to go for apparel, I love a good splash of tie dye in my loungewear. There is nothing that makes me feel pulled together at home than some comfortable options that I picked especially to relax. (and not a 20 year old shirt or pair of sweatpants that I just haven’t given up yet). A sweatshirt like this Urban Renewal Recycled Splatter Tie-Dye Crew Neck Sweatshirt would get me through a weekend at home catching up on my TV shows or new book.
If you are able to venture out (who knows the way things have been going these days?) take the plunge and try these Gap High Rise Tie-Dye Straight Jeans. They are surely a bold choice, but if you keep the rest of your outfit simple and let these be your stand out piece, you’ll have no problem easing the tie dye trend into your personal style.
Tie Dye Trend 2020 Styling Tips
1. Tie dye is fun!
This trend isn’t meant to be taken so seriously. The fun pops of color play well with your favorite pair of jeans or casual wide leg pants. This over-the-top BLANKNYC Tie Dye Faux Leather jacket, can be a little much for some, but for others it’s the perfect piece to play up the tie trend for the spring. The fringe adds an extra punch and even if it wasn’t in a tie dye print, this jacket is definitely a statement piece.
2. Tie dye can be work-appropriate with the right pieces.
Don’t think you can’t take your tie dye into a professional setting. There are many muted options that will work in your office and in the boardroom. Something like this Vince Winter Tie Dye top would be beautiful by pairing it with a light weight leather pencil skirt and simple, classic black patent leather pumps. You can also accentuate any of your existing favorite work outfits with a subtle accessory like this Natural Dye Silk Garden Scarf from Eileen Fisher.
3. Keep your old tie dye tucked away.
I wouldn’t necessarily call the tie dye of yesteryear “classic,” so it’s best to keep it in the closet. All of the current options that are on the runways and in the stores are an updated and modern take on the tie dye fashion trend. These pieces are much better than trying to dig up your old clothing artifacts. I couldn’t see anyone wearing this Rebecca Taylor La Vie Ink Tie Dye Jumpsuit in the 60s or the 90s. The slim silhouette and subtle details make a great piece to wear and love in 2020.
4. Keep it simple with accessories.
I think one of the best ways to represent tie dye is with a fun accessory. A purse or tote bag is perfect for the spring and summer time. It allows you to have fun with this trend if you don’t want to take the plunge and invest in a piece of apparel. This Rebecca Minkoff Tie Dye Tote is the ideal size to pack for full day weekend outings. If you want to really indulge and invest in a statement tie dye accessory, take a look at this Proenza Schouler Tie Dye Frame Clutch. I absolutely love the vibrant color combination; it surely can’t be missed.
Shop Tie Dye For women Over 40
Pictured above:
Alberta Ferretti Spring 2020 RTW
Urban Renewal Recycled Splatter Tie-Dye Crew Neck Sweatshirt, $59
Jimmy Choo Jax Tie Dye Platform Sandals, $795
BLANKNYC High Collar Tie Dye Faux Leather Moto Jacket, $128
Rebecca Minkoff Tie Dye Tote, $128
Gap High Rise Tie-Dye Cheeky Straight Jeans, $42.99
Will you be wearing the new tie dye trend for spring?
–Carmen Turner
You may like to read more of Carmen’s trends posts for women over 40 like How To Look Chic In Earth Tone Colors For Winter And Spring and How To Wear The New Dramatic Draping Trend.
Runway Photos: Vogue.com
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I definitely like the new and improved tie-dye better than the 90’s version!