Crochet has long been associated with cozy blankets and homemade crafts, but recently it has taken the fashion world by storm. Now, crochet is everywhere from high-end stores to the high street, becoming a must-have trend for both women and men.
Celebrities like Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have been spotted rocking crochet looks, while at events like Glastonbury, crochet bucket hats and skirts have replaced the usual baseball caps and denim cutoffs. Reality TV stars, including Love Islanders, are also embracing the trend with crochet bikinis and polo shirts.
The rise of crochet in fashion is akin to the street art practice of “yarn bombing,” where public objects are covered in textiles. This trend has extended to online retailers like Asos, where both the men’s and women’s sections offer a wide range of crochet items, with some pieces selling out quickly.
According to Zak Maoui, the style director of the Gentlemen’s Journal, crochet has evolved from its 70s hippy image to a more sleek and subtle style. Sierra Ndagire, the founder of Crolage, creates handmade crochet dresses and separates, emphasizing the individualistic and expressive nature of crochet fashion.
However, not all items marketed as crochet are truly handmade. Designer Ruth Herring notes that some cheap crochet items are actually machine-knitted or embroidered, lacking the authenticity of true crochet made with a single hook and yarn. Handmade crochet items should be valued for the time and skill required to create them.
While mass retailers offer affordable crochet pieces, they are often made from non-breathable synthetic fibers, leading to discomfort for wearers. High-profile figures like Taylor Swift have brought attention to crochet fashion, sparking interest in DIY patterns and supporting the homespun market.
Crochet’s appeal lies in its tactile and artisanal qualities, offering consumers a sense of uniqueness and craftsmanship in a fast-paced, mass-produced fashion industry. Despite the popularity of fast-fashion crochet, true crochet designers emphasize the value of handcrafted pieces over replicas.
As crochet continues to dominate the fashion scene, it’s clear that this trend is not just a passing fad but a reflection of a broader consumer desire for individuality and quality craftsmanship in clothing. Whether you’re rocking a crochet bikini at the beach or a crochet top on a night out, this versatile and stylish trend is here to stay.