Along with tan sandals, denim cut-offs, and floral dresses, one major sign that summer is on the horizon is the latest influx of crochet that's woven itself into the shopping sphere. Everywhere I look right now, I’m presented with pieces in this nostalgia-inducing fabrication. Naturally, bags were the first to drop, with crochet totes being served up by the likes of J.W Anderson and Chloé as early as January. But as we allow ourselves to begin to daydream about the warmer months ahead, I’ve noticed that crochet clothes have also started to trickle in—specifically crochet tops.
The craft certainly has roots in the grandmother aesthetic. (I used to eat meals from floral plates set upon crochet mats whenever I visited my Scottish granny, so crochet holds a very special place in my heart.) And over the past few seasons, we’ve seen a resurgence in the ’60s and ’70s trends on the runways, which has brought the bold and beautifully retro fabric back into the style spotlight.
Crochet tops are trending in a big way for 2022.
Synonymous with free-spirited dressing, crochet reliably makes a comeback around festival season. And perhaps it feels particularly prevalent and in demand right now because some of our favorite festivals have been given the green light this year. What’s the easiest way to wear crochet? As a top, of course!
Fashion people have already given the crochet top their stamp of approval, wearing it with everything from wide-leg jeans to pretty floral dresses. But don’t think crochet is just Instagram and TikTok fodder. Pinterest confirms that interest in the trend is peaking in 2022, as crochet tops have been pinned upwards of 316,000 times this year alone. Crochet also nestles comfortably into the Y2K aesthetic (which crosses over with the granny aesthetic more than you might think), cementing it as a must-buy in the eyes of many this season.
So how should you be wearing your crochet tops? And which are the best crochet tops to invest in? I can answer both of these questions for you below.
CROCHET-TOP OUTFIT INSPIRATION
Style Notes: You know a trend is wholly worthwhile when Alexa Chung jumps on it. I wouldn’t have thought of pairing crochet with black tailored trousers, but alas, Chung’s touch prevails.
Style Notes: Colour is key when it comes to crochet, and I appreciate how Grece Ghanem has upped the ante by adding a pair of Kelly-green mules to the mix.
Style Notes: Ease yourself into the crochet trend by layering a vest over some of your existing wardrobe staples. For me, it doesn’t get better than this combination of crochet and florals.
Style Notes: While we’re on the subject of layering a crochet vest, why not try doing so over your favourite white blouse to give it some 2022 flair?
Style Notes: Or you can wear the vest on its own just like Claire Most has. Her wide-leg jeans and chunky sandals give the twee fabrication some seriously cool credentials.
Style Notes: Is a crochet top not enough for you? Why not style it with a matching or clashing crochet skirt for an outfit that screams "summer.”
Style Notes: Until temperatures rise, make like Bianca Foley and wear a crochet cardigan as a top. Finish the look with classic outerwear.
Style Notes: To really up the springtime feel of your crochet tops, try wearing them with white or ecru denim in place of blue and black.
Style Notes: Halters are my favourite crochet-top iteration, and I’d very much like to wear mine just as Monique Olivia has: with denim Bermuda shorts, beaded jewellery and white kicks.
Style Notes: Crochet bra tops are absolutely a thing and look incredible paired with colour-block separates. Roll on, summer!
SHOP THE BEST CROCHET TOPS
A traditional take on the crochet-top trend.
Ideal if you prefer long sleeves.
Colour-block styles feel extra fresh.
This pared-back option will appease minimalist dressers.
I’d advise wearing this halter with the matching shorts.
I’d style this by layering it with a white shirt now and wearing it on its own come summer.
Not all crochet has to be bright or white.
A cardigan that looks genuinely vintage.
This would look great paired with linen.
This chic top also comes in a gorgeous pink and coral colourway.
Keep the rest of your outfit neutral to really emphasise the detail on this crochet top.
This is just calling out to be worn with those aforementioned denim cut-offs and tan sandals.
Another epic co-ord that I can’t stop thinking about.
Don’t want to go for full-on crochet? This cute collared blouse still taps into the trend.
The easiest summer throw-on.
The delicate colours in this crochet top only add to its beauty.
If in doubt, add flares.
This will layer so well over slip dresses.
Free People has some of the best crochet out there.
Between the colours, the floral detailing and the silhouette, this is what I picture when I envisage my perfect crochet top.
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