5 Ways to Pull Off Spring’s Psychedelic Prints

You don’t have to be a devout Dead Head to recognize the fact that trippy tie-dye and psychedelic swirls are back in the fashion vernacular. Blame it on the larger cultural conversations around the science of psychedelics or perhaps a universal desire to embrace the idea of “dopamine dressing.” Either way, it’s clear: Designers are embracing counter-culture for spring. On the runway at Rodarte, there was the cheeky appearance of a lighthearted mushroom print. At Brandon Maxwell, there was a range of swirling, graphic gowns and dresses—a playful twist on his usually preppy staples. And then, of course, there are all the goodies from the house of Pucci, which is helmed by a new creative director Camille Miceli, who is breathed new life into the beloved label.

If you’re looking to embrace a little bit of Haight-Ashbury in your wardrobe this season, there are a handful of ways you can incorporate the season’s psychedelic prints with the everyday staples you already own. Update your wedding guest style with a pastel swirl dress in a lemonade yellow, or perhaps swap out your usual work-from-home sweatshirt for something a bit trippier. No matter how far you’re willing to fall down the proverbial rabbit hole, there’s a way for you to make the most of the playfulness abound at the moment. Ahead, find the essential ways to get in on the trend.

Pastel Swirl

If you’re looking for a subtle way to ease into the trend, start with the assortment of soft-hued pieces splashed with abstract whirls and splotches. These dresses, skirts, and sweaters are colorful, but in a way that still feels understated, especially when paired with polished accessories. Add a white heeled sandal and a structured bag for a look that might even skew a bit prep-school chic.

Hille House Home Elie nap dress

Baum Und Pferdgarten Minna satin dress

Miaou Ginger dress

Loewe mohair-blend jacquard cardigan

Emilio Pucci Albizia print silk twill sarong

Emilio Pucci printed organic cotton-voile maxi dress

Hippie Trippy

So you’ve already devoured How to Change Your Mind. Now, you’re ready to dress in a way befitting of your altered state. These bold graphics, courtesy of labels like Stella McCartney and The Elder Statesman, are playful and thought-provoking all at once.

Rodarte silk crepe cape gown

Monse graphic-print striped silk trousers

Online Ceramics Find Heaven Everywhere hand-dyed T-shirt

Stella McCartney x Ed Curtis oil swirl shirt

The Elder Statesman Expand Your Mind crewneck

MCQ Grow Up watercolour-paint sweatshirt

Get Graphic

Last summer it was all about checkerboard prints, but in 2022, things are taking a tessellated turn. Bold graphics have the feel of a Magic Eye picture, hidden somewhere in the mind-bending pattern is a chic hidden message.

Paco Rabanne x Fondation Vasarely jacquard geo-print crop top

Brandon Maxwell mini bubble dress with bonded bustier

House of Sunny Wannabe Hockney dress

The Attico Fujiko feather-trimmed printed minidress

Gucci interlocking G silk skirt

Maisie Wilen swirl-print sleeveless playsuit

Vintage Flair

You can’t embrace a modern psychedelic trend without nodding to the original era of funky florals and acid hues. Sixties- and ’70s-inspired prints have made a modern comeback, specifically by way of summer vacation staples. Before you plan your trip to the beach this summer, make sure you’re dressed as if you’re a late-season Mad Men extra.

Raey knot-front psychedelic floral-print pyjama jacket

Silvia Tcherassi Luz mini dress

Rixo Lolita floral-print cotton mini dress

De La Vali Barbara halter-neck midi-dress in slims swril

La DoubleJ Rita printed jersey maxi dress

Siedrés Talia floral-print cotton maxi dress

Bold Accessories

The final way to make a splash via the psychedelic trend is by way of unexpectedly funky outfit add ons—handbags, jewelry, and shoes included. A simple jeans and tee outfit gets an instant upgrade with the addition of a kaleidoscopic bag or tie-dye pair of sneakers. So, try your hand at a seasonal upgrade with the simple addition of a mind-altering accessory.