Must-wear trend of the month
To the untrained eye, it may just look like traditional hippie-style tie-dye. But perish the thought! The latest fashion world buzzword to hit the high street is 'ombre' - otherwise known as 'dip dye'.
It's basically a technique whereby colours are 'bled' into one another, with shades graduating from light to dark. And plenty of self-respecting fashionistas who would have once sooner died than dyed are suddenly embracing the trend.
Needless to say, it all began on the spring/summer catwalks, with big names such as Prada, Alexander McQueen, Matthew Williamson and Alberta Ferretti paving the way by showcasing some to-dye-for styles. The difference between these designs and old-school tie-dye? They're generally more subtle and less 'kaleidoscopic': think white-to-yellow, lilac-to-mauve or red-to-pink rather than an in-your-face myriad of colours.
Celebrities who were quick to adopt the trend include US gossip column regulars the Olsen twins and the always stylish actress Claire Danes. Lindsay Lohan wore a subtle blue-to-cream ombre top over black leggings at the launch of a photography exhibition in New York. And Angelina Jolie wore a beautiful floor-skimming gown in graduating taupe, beige and cream to the Screen Actors Guild awards in Los Angeles.
As ever, it hasn't taken long for high street and online stores to follow suit. Head to Oasis (www.oasis-stores.com), Monsoon (www.monsoon.co.uk) or Warehouse (www.warehouse.co.uk) for a range of floaty ombre dresses; or try Matalan (www.matalan.co.uk) for fun, affordable dip-dye tops.
Alternatively, you can give a nod to the trend in more subtle ways, through your shoes and accessories. Check out Ruby + Ed for Miu Miu-inspired dip-dye patent ballerina pumps (£80; www.rubyanded.co.uk). Or, if you're feeling a little braver, invest in a pair of Pamela Mann's Space Dye tights (£5.99) from www.tightsplease.co.uk.
This summer's fashion motto? Live and let dye!
