Tie dye may remind you of the vibrant 1960s, but it’s time to shake off the image of oversized, rainbow t-shirts and bring this trend into the modern day. When done right, a tie dye piece can elevate your look, offering a unique and chic statement. Today’s tie dye items are far more refined than the psychedelic versions of the past. From stylish dresses to sleek silk tanks and tailored skirts, tie dye is now available in sophisticated cuts and designs that make it an easy addition to any wardrobe.

The beauty of tie dye lies in its uniqueness—each piece is one of a kind. For example, the tie dye shirt I’m wearing in this outfit has its own distinctive pattern, which makes it feel truly special. But the question remains: how do you wear a tie dye shirt without feeling like you’re part of a rainbow explosion?

The key to mastering tie dye is restraint. As with any bold trend, less is more. Stick to one tie dye item per outfit. Don’t overload your look with multiple tie dye pieces—think a tie dye shirt paired with neutral bottoms or vice versa. For instance, in this outfit, I’ve paired a tie dye shirt with black jeans and a blazer, keeping the rest of the outfit simple and letting the shirt take center stage. The black jeans provide a strong contrast that grounds the look and keeps it from becoming too chaotic.

When styling tie dye, it’s crucial to balance the vibrancy with neutral tones. Neutral accessories like a black blazer, a simple purse, or black shoes can complement the shirt without overwhelming the outfit. If you choose to wear a tie dye dress, follow the same rule: pair it with neutral accessories to keep the look polished and intentional.

Color choice is also important. To keep the look chic, opt for tie dye in darker shades or soft, watercolored hues. These subdued tones create an elegant vibe, while the bright rainbow colors often seen in tie dye pieces may be harder to pull off without looking overdone. If you do want something brighter, choose a piece with colors from a similar palette, like shades of blue and green, rather than mixing contrasting hues like orange and pink.

Tie dye isn’t just for shirts. You can incorporate it into a variety of clothing items, depending on your style. Whether it’s a tie dye tank top, skirt, dress, or even accessories, the key is to follow the basic guidelines above. For those who are more adventurous, tie dye jeans can make a statement, but remember to keep the rest of the outfit neutral and simple when the pants are bold enough to stand out on their own.