Why I Love Shibori And How To Style It
The infinite possibilities of Shibori: There is something about tie-dye that gives me a sense of freedom and fluidity… The flowing stripes and ripples on clothes make me feel liberated…
If you look at what I am wearing, the irregular patterns and colour of the ensemble highlight how this technique is deftly applied to achieve just the right shade, creating timeless prints that are as eye-catching today as they were a thousand years ago!
I have always been a great fan of Shibori, and love everything about it; whether it is draped or used on clothing, décor, or accessories. I am mesmerised by the way it looks with its intricate patterns and geometric shapes that vary in design and depth of colour. I think that it makes a statement without trying too hard.
Many of us who develop fabric affection become interested in the creation of the fabric itself. My fascination for Shibori made me dig a little deeper to know about its history and origin.
Shibori: A Chic Blast from the Past!
Born in Japan around the eighth century, Shibori is a resist-dyeing technique of stitching, folding, twisting, bunching, and binding ~ mostly done on natural fabrics like cotton, hemp, or silk ~ to create a visual feast of colour and technique that speaks volumes about the creativity and aesthetic quality of the artisans.
There is a rhythm and a lyrical quality to the tie-dye patterns that give the fabrics and clothing different effects and an eclectic vibe ~ making each piece speak boldly. I just can’t get enough of this fabric, and own a curated collection. Wearing this unique print makes me feel as if I am wearing a work of art! Now, I have many friends who admire my hand-dyed clothes but aren’t quite sure how to incorporate such statement pieces into their wardrobe. So, this blog is dedicated to showing you how Shibori can be incorporated into your wardrobe.
What captivates me about Shibori is its authenticity in design; the swirls, twirls, and unique patterns are sheer poetry in motion. Beautifully structured dresses like the one featured, are high on my must-have list for 2018!
What I have noticed is that this ancient resist-dyeing technique is gaining popularity with many contemporary designers, who are creating elegant and sophisticated Shibori capsule collections. There is beauty in imperfection and it is this aesthetic and hand-crafted element that makes each piece uniquely different from the other.
So, let’s say “Sayonara” to yesterday’s patterns, and “Konnichiwa” to bring in this tie-and-dye style and culture to make it the style statement of 2018!
Tie-dye just makes me happy. It radiates peace, love, and everything in between… I hope that sometimes you wear your heart on your body!
I love dipdyed fabrics – especially because each pattern is absolutely unique! Loved this article by the way, very inspiring. And your images are beautifully composed ~ must have been magical to shoot wearing that gorgeous creation!
It’s amazing that something that comes from a plant can create such rich and vibrant hues, Natasha!
Completely immersed in your ‘Shibori story’, the origin of the prints and your regal aura, Tanya! I have a maxi dress in a similar print and am now going to treasure it more! xx
Thank you, Oindrilla. Take care of that dress.
You have stirred the creativity in my soul, Tanya! I love the gradation of colours… and I want to invest in some gorgeous Shibori, as well.
With Shibori, you can manipulate the fabric in so many different ways to create completely different patterns! Now that I’ve worn this stunning dress, I can’t wait to experiment with it more, Chandni.
Beautiful dress that is truly a work of art! I am definitely going to have another go at Shibori because my only introduction (in the UK) was with traditional indigo dye that produced a 3″ piece of stripy fabric. Thank you for sharing this with us, Tanya!
Couldn’t agree more with you, Aastha. The fall of this dress is really manageable that one can wear it the whole day!
Just wanted to say that I love tie-dyed silk! Your dress’s outcome is quite similar to a few prints I’m working on at the moment… Although, each dye turns out differently and even with some experience, I can never tell how the colour shades will finally look like on the dried and washed fabric. But this is exactly what makes dyeing so exciting, as each pattern is simply unique. 🙂
A very simple stitch with so many possibilities…
Thank you, Nisha. Glad you loved it. 🙂
It’s so lovely to read about this ‘art form’! And wow, what stunning images you’ve captured of this beautiful dress!!
I love to hear that… 🙂
I love-love-love it! Shibori – never heard of it – its anything but “bori” that’s for sure… haha! On a more serious note, I love that each fabric turns out simply unique!
When you say that you loved it – then my day is made, Nidhi!
Thinking good thoughts and being open to sharing your appreciation of this exquisite creation is – I hope – respected by the designer. In any case, I haven’t tried wearing Shibori yet, but would be really happy to purchase one! Thank you for sharing! xx
My designer is a true artist, Shreya. I wouldn’t question that…
Love this share! It’s cool to hear the story behind the fabric. Thank you for introducing me to such an amazing art form, Tanya! ❤️❤️❤️
That means a lot because you write so beautifully, Pushpa. 🙂
Seriously gorgeous! A beautiful effect. ❤️ Thank you so much for sharing your journey, Tanya.
On a side note, I’m so glad to see you sharing more these days, it really brightens up morning!
Thank you for reading and appreciating this post, Aryaman!
“Imperfection is perfection to a beautiful perspective.”
Inspiring blog post, Tanya! Your outfit is uniquely glorious and obviously a labour of love! Thank you for your willingness to share these gems… 🙂
This one is so beautiful and close to nature. I truly love it, Khyali!
You look gorgeous, Tanya! I took a two-day fabric dyeing class last summer and loved it! I bought the supplies but with a little baby to take care of, I haven’t found time to do it again…
So happy to hear from you, Shrishti. Shibori makes a nice way of staying fashionable while protecting our wonderful planet… I hope you get around to it soon. 🙂
The fabric is beautiful ~ almost more art than fabric! I’d love to get my hands on one! Thank you for the inspiration!
Chandni, such appreciation humbles me.
I learn something new every time I read your posts! You are inspiring, Tanya! Love following creative people who follow their hearts. Shibori is now on my list of thing to try. ❤️
Can I do a happy dance, Hema? 🙂
I love the texture and patterns! Shibori is new to me and very inspiring to learn about. The technique makes for beautiful one of a kind treasures indeed!
Thank you, Roshini. I couldn’t agree more with you.
Such a beautiful blend of colours… This age old Japanese tie and dye technique has been a rage in the world of fashion, and so many variations of this technique exist today! And yes, I so love the Shibori creation you are wearing ~ takes my breath away! Fascinating blog and you!
I am humbled to receive your compliment, Dakshita. 🙂
Your gown is elaborate and beautiful, Tanya. I am glad to have seen your designer’s work of art! 🙂
Here’s a fun fact: Woven Shibori is a loom-based adaptation of the stitched pattern thread method. Instead of stitching the pattern after the fabric is woven, the pattern threads are woven into the fabric as a supplementary weft while the fabric is woven.
So happy to read your remarks, Sachi!
There are so many possibilities and variations (when it comes to Shibori) to create images of the natural world… You look gorgeous! ❤️ If I ever become a thief, your wardrobe will be on my hit-list! Haha!!
Haha! You’ll be the sweetest robber ever!
Love your appreciation, Preeti. Thank you.
That’s a really complex and unique pattern, but I don’t see myself in it… Not everything looks good on everyone, I suppose… but you look stunning and so graceful in Shibori! ❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for sharing your thoughts, Urmi.
Beautiful you… and another informative post to add to my knowledge. I love that you use your platform to enlighten us about the history of weaves and dyeing techniques. And yes, buying should always be considered as per ones needs. ❤️
Thank you for your appreciation, Hamsila.
Love the whole ensemble! You just made my day with that lovely visage, as always. ❤️ A wonderful reflective post… and the dyeing process does sound complex.
So happy to hear this! Thank you, Kartika.
Lovely ensemble ~ your entire look has come out to be so elegant! ❤️ Always cherish your posts for these pearls of wisdom, Tanya! I always see a lot of value in what you share…
Aww Rohini ~ you fill my heart with joy!
What a beauty of a post ~ I treasure every bit of knowledge you impart! You look exquisite and ethereal, and your style is worth major admiration. ❤️
Thank you, Priyanshi. Your warm appreciation and sentiments are so joy giving.