Tie-dye [1] is one of the first big fashion trends of summer 2020. And while we love the bold, colourful DIY [2] style, it's become so ubiquitous that people social distancing have added tie-dyeing to the at-home activity list — right up there with bread baking [3], Dalgona coffees [4], and impossible-to-solve puzzles [5]. If you fancy taking this colourful summer fashion trend in a more alternative direction, then get inspiration from the fresh patchwork pieces taking over Instagram.
Patchwork isn't new to the world of style. Many of us have fond memories of a homemade patchwork blanket or jumper gifted from our nan, and even if you don't, we all seem to be familiar with this comforting childhood memory. Recently, patchwork designs have had a very cool and sexy makeover, thanks to one of Rihanna [6]'s favourite young British designers, A Sai Ta, who founded the label Asai in 2018. Ever since the brand launched its iconic sheer, multicolour patchwork Hot Wok tops three years ago, it's been a huge success with the fashion crowd — seeing a revival in December 2019 after Rihanna collaborated with Asai [7] on a coveted 24-piece collection for Selfridges.
Now, the Hot Wok aesthetic is back and better for summer 2020, with a handful of designers creating similar colourful patchwork pieces that are going bonkers on Instagram. The best part? Many of these designers use discarded and deadstock fabric [8] to create pieces that are beautiful and sustainable.
Ahead, see four brands that are creating the most memorable patchwork designs on the web.
