Dressy tie dye from Obey and Pacsun

I was making my way to Punchbowl Social in the East Village for game night with some of my friends when I came across the most colorful mural I had ever seen. It was in front of the restaurant Lola 55 on F Street near 13th. Its geometric patterns and clash of colors gave it a futuristic feel.

I wasn’t the only one who took notice of this hidden gem. While I gazed, three different groups of people stopped to admire it and take pictures. I was about to continue walking to Punchbowl Social, but I saw Adriana posing in front of the mural and decided to chat with her. She was rocking one of my favorite trends at the moment: tie dye.

Adriana works as an after-school program coordinator at an elementary school in Chula Vista. She told me that she had stopped to take photos in front of the colorful wall because she draws inspiration from murals like this, inspiration she uses in her work. I asked her about her outfit and what she thought of the tie dye trend. “I love it,” she answered, “because it’s colorful, bold, and creative; all things I like to incorporate in my everyday life.”

Her tee was a toned down version of the 70s -inspired tie dye we all know (and love?) This top in particular was a neutral black-and-brown tie dye, which made it perfect for her more dressed-up look. It’s by the brand Obey, and she purchased it at Pacsun ($30). Her black faux leather skirt was from Zara ($40), her denim jacket was an H&M purchase ($40). Her crossbody bag was by designer Rebecca Minkoff ($131). Her black suede booties were from Nordstrom’s B.P. line ($90), and her black aviator sunglasses were Wildfox ($99).

I asked Adriana to describe her personal style in a few words and she said, “I like a little bit of everything. I like to change it up depending on my mood. Sometimes I go for the rocker look with my leather jacket, booties, ripped jeans, and a t-shirt. Other times, I feel very boho and I like wearing long maxi dresses, floral patterns, fringe, earthy tones with a rattan purse and sandals. That’s what’s fun about fashion! You can be anyone you want and play dress up according to where you’re going and how you’re feeling.”