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Banish ideas of home dyes and elastic bands in a bucket - the likes of Louis Vuitton, Nina Ricci, and Matthew Williamson all delighted the fashion pack at spring-summer shows with their designer take on dip dye.

Tie dye, dip dye, ombre (French for shaded) - call it what you will, this trend is all about gorgeous graduated colour.

Celebrities have been quick to jump on the ombre act with Claire Danes and Thandie Newton sporting high fashion dip dye dresses on the red carpets, while Madonna and Eva Mendez are currently clutching onto their Prada ombre handbags.

Tie dye is being touted as the trend we're all dye-ing to wear this summer so jump on that colourful bandwagon. Here's how:

Tie-dye-for glamour

Forget notions of prancing around a muddy field at Woodstock, this season's tie dye is ultra glam. Seek out luxurious silk and chiffon numbers if you're reserving your shady purchases for night-time. As for colour, look for pieces that graduate into an elegant rich tone like plum or navy.

Dip dye daytime

It's easier to embrace your hippy chic side with daywear. Make a fun bold statement by teaming a funky jersey dip dye tee with shorts, or throw on a tie die dress with flip flops and an oversized floppy hat. If you want to do dip dye officewear, keep it sleek and practical by choosing darker pieces for a sophisticated look.

Ombre extras

If the thought of introducing tie dye to your wardrobe sends you back into a terrifying 1980s time-warp, you don't have to shun the trend completely. Prada's banana heel ombre shoes kicked off a big passion for shaded shoes - just choose the shiniest of ombre heels to tap into a more grown-up version of the look. Handbags and scarves are also an accessible way to inject a touch of tie dye into your spring/summer ensembles. Or flaunt your ombre on the beach with a stylish shaded bikini.

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Rules of engagement
• Love the trend? Step away from the top-to-toe look (unless you're donning a maxi dress) and stick to just one tie dye garment at a time.
• Tie dye is fabulous for injecting colour into your wardrobe, but unless you're very brave, opt for a two-colour tie dye scheme rather than the full rainbow spectrum.
• Bright graduated sunset colours are big this season but won't wash in the office. Reserve dip dye brights for high-summer soirees and the holiday suitcase.
• Dip dye doesn't have to be all about look-at-me colour. The trend works just as well in muted greys and chic monochromes if you want an understated take on the look.
• Avoid matchy-matchy accessories. Don't be afraid to toughen up the dip dye trend with fierce gladiator heels, or soften your shaded chic with flat sandals.

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