Both of-the-moment and pleasingly nostalgic, crochet is fast becoming a summer staple. In a world where anyone with enough money can buy the latest “It” bag or “It” shoe, the idea of artisan craft in fashion has been gradually rising in value. The slight imperfections of a handmade piece instantly convey the time and experience required to create it, and that there may only be a limited number around.
That’s just one of the reasons the homespun look of crochet is having a fashion moment. Forget about your granny’s doilies and bedspreads; in 2024, crochet – along with other textiles of a similar ilk – is finding its way on to tank tops, beach cover-ups and sandals.
The return of the bohemian look, spearheaded by Chloé’s Chemena Kamali, has also helped – it’s a refreshing contrast to the minimalism that has dominated fashion for years. It’s a nostalgic look, too, recalling the free-spirited style of 1960s and ’70s hippies. No wonder Sienna Miller, Taylor Swift and Dakota Johnson have embraced it so enthusiastically. And now is the moment for it: this relaxed aesthetic comes alive in summer.
A number of high-street and mid-price brands have also been banking on the appeal of chunky cotton knits, from M&S to Me+Em. These may not have been handmade, but Kitri is doing a roaring trade in them all the same: ‘We’ve seen a really huge uplift in our knitwear,’ says founder Haeni Kim. ‘Particularly textured cardigans, they’ve done really well this summer.’
It’s easy to see why: the problem with many tops and dresses in crochet and similar fabrics is that they’re full of holes – revealing more than you might be at ease with. A cardigan is the most accessible way into the look, as you can wear something underneath.
But don’t rule out other crochet pieces too quickly. Dresses may appear to fall into exhibitionist territory, but there are plenty with the same handcrafted look in a tighter weave. Otherwise, just add a slip, and the dress becomes very easy to wear – just be sure to choose one that skims over the body, rather than clinging.
Crochet pieces have the potential to make the rest of the staples in your wardrobe appear fresher, too. ‘The crochet texture adds a point of interest,’ says Kim. ‘You can wear a block colour without making it look too flat.’
Still too out-there? Consider a crochet trim, or accessories. Loeffler Randall has crochet sandals, while Dear Frances offers a covetable open-woven leather in its Mary-Jane flats and new handbag collection.
The best source, though? Crochet your own. Master artisan or not, it’ll be edition one of one. There’s no greater fashion flex than that.
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