Tie Dye and Batik Fabric: Why They've Come Back into Style

If you have always felt an attraction to distinctive mixtures of colours and varying designs, you are probably familiar with tie-dye and batik fabrics. Although they may have similarities in their unique patterns and colour blends, the process that goes into dyeing these materials is quite different. Batik is a more detailed process of dyeing the cloth and uses a removable type of wax to protect areas of the fabric that are not to be dyed. It begins by using a tjanting, a kind of pen that paints melted wax on the material. The material is immersed in the dye from there, so the colour saturates and spreads on the fabric. The wax covers these patterns and keeps the dye from completely colouring the fabric. On the other hand, the process of tie-dyeing involves knotting or using a rubber band to create unique and irregular designs on the material.

Tie Dye and Batik Fabric: Why They've Come Back into Style
[image: pixabay]

Both tie-dye and batik have re-emerged today, gaining popularity among many, with fashion designers creating new designs with these colourful materials. It was trendy in the 60s and early 70s, primarily associated with the free-spirited and hippie generations. Famous musicians wore them and created a statement that the youth eagerly absorbed. The various colours and designs made each piece unique, reflecting the era's vibrancy and love of life. 

To recapture that colourful past, many of today's designers are including tie-dye and batik in their creations, and people love them. After all, the retro look is the in thing and has been for quite some time. Some people have even started designing their own outfits, using beautiful batik fabric to create unique pieces they can wear for any occasion. 

Styling tips for batik and tie-dye

As earlier mentioned, batik and tie-dye can be worn anywhere, for any occasion. However, there are some rules to follow to make it appropriate for everyday use, office wear, or other events. For instance, if you intend to wear batik in your workplace, picking out batik fabrics in more neutral shades, such as grey or brown, would be more suitable. These patterns lend a sophisticated look matched with a blazer and tailored pants. Similarly, a stylish coat and trousers can easily complement a tie-dye pattern for a smart casual look. 

Because there are enough eye-catching colours on tie-dye and batik fabrics, it would be best to match them with solid pieces in more subtle tones. Mixing patterns such as batik and stripes may be slightly too much. Similarly, it is best to avoid wearing two pieces of tie-dye. For instance, matching tie-dye shirts and outer layers don't work. Instead, you can wear one or the other and match it with a neutral top or bottom. Jeans go very well with batik or tie-dyed tops and a chic blazer. With accessories, your best bet would still be neutral colours. The basic rule is to match batik and tie-dye with a solid colour to create a classy, put-together look.

Batik and tie-dye are gaining popularity because they exude life. Their colours and unique designs allow you to show off your distinct personality, expressed through the shades and patterns you choose to wear.