Learn about the history of tie dye

The tie dye, an ancient technique for dyeing clothes, is pointed out by runways and experts as a strong trend. A symbol of freedom and social revolutions, the artisanal dyeing originated in a completely different cultural context.

The History

Originally developed by the Japanese in the 6th and 7th centuries, the technique was known in Japan as shibori. The dyeing was widely performed by both Asians and Africans and Indians (Bandhani) to incorporate organic shapes of combined colors into fabrics.

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Spiral tie-dye, one of the most common techniques

The name tie dye was incorporated into the technique only in the 1960s and 70s, when it began to appear in the West. The nomenclature in English means "to tie and dye." At the time, the technique became famous for being strongly adopted and adapted by the hippie community, who were seen wearing shirts, pants, and accessories like sarongs in movements and festivals in the United States. Its status, at the time, was that of an aesthetic element representing freedom. The look captivated musicians like John Sebastian, Janis Joplin, and Joe Cocker.

Janis Joplin wearing tie-dye

In the mid-90s, tie dye was rediscovered by clubbers in their nightlife style. The abundance of colors in one piece was ideal, so the technique fit perfectly—but the importance lies in the revival of the clothes.

Whether due to the current political and economic context we are in, or the increasing demand for personalized and exclusive items, the ancient dyeing technique reappears as a strong trend.

Driven by the 90s nostalgia that predominates in much of today's fashion, the clubber style also appears to be on the rise as the latest promise.

On the left: dyeing process of a white t-shirt using bottles with fabric dye | On the right: the last part of the process, where the t-shirt should be left drying outdoors

The tie-dye technique

Due to its popularization, the fashion industry has developed various techniques to produce tie dye on a large scale. Basically, the designs are produced randomly through the dyeing of the fabric with parts protected from contact with the dye.

Before dyeing, the fabric is prepared to achieve the gradient effects, using string or cords, which are tightly wrapped and tied on the parts that should not be dyed.

Generally, the colors take on a spiral shape, but there is also the possibility of achieving shapes such as spots, smudged effects, and stripes, among others.

In homage to the ancient technique that originated in the East, NOTTHESAMO developed a tie dye shirt in blue and purple. The limited edition item celebrates the 5th anniversary of the project and will be on sale on September 7, during the commemorative event in São Paulo - for information click here.

T-shirt This is Not the Same Old T-shit