As a young child, I thought crochet fashion was limited to head gears (beanies, hair net and scrunchies) and scarves. It wasn’t until I came across a tweet by Ore Akinde, a popular X (formerly Twitter) user sometime in 2021 that I found out how versatile and fashionable crocheting and crochet wearables could be.
According to Wikipedia Crochet is a process of creating textiles by using a crochet hook to interlock loops of yarn, strands or threads of other materials.
From its initial humble beginning of being a pastime work for housewives, crochet has evolved to being mainstay in the fashion industry. With its colorful and unique interpretations to this steadily-growing fashion trend, crochet fashion won’t be going out of style yet.
Why Choose Crochet Fashion
It is Timeless:
Everybody knows that fashion is cyclical. It comes and it goes, often returning with a twist to it but it doesn’t apply to crochet fashion as it has a timeless quality to it.
It is a form of Personal Expression:
Crochet wears allow the creator to exercise their creativity, sense of style and imagination in such a way that every intricate pattern and design turns out uniquely and originally as well.
It is Versatile:
Fashion items such as bags, belts, dresses, skirts, tops, headbands, scarves are some of the fashion items that can be made uniquely from crochet.
To further add to its versatile nature, crochet wears are suitable for attending events like a beach outing (two-piece swimsuits, shrugs, mesh dresses) or even a crochet dress for a wedding.
It is quite Comfortable:
Crochet fabrics are typically soft and breathable, and perfect for warm weather. Additionally, they can be made thicker for colder times. You don’t have to worry about itching with yarn or wool materials.
It is Sustainable:
Many crochet items are handmade, promoting slow fashion and reducing the environmental impact. This makes crochet a more eco-friendly choice.
Styling Crochet Fashion
Just like any other fashion piece, there’s an art to styling your crochet fashion pieces that will make them stand out even more. However, it doesn’t hurt to have some tips for times when you’re out of ideas. Below are some of the tips you can incorporate for when next you’re stepping out for any event:
Layering:
For big ‘holey’ crochet wears, layering can help add class to any outfit. A camisole or tank top can serve as a base layer for crochet tops such as shrugs.
Color Coordinate:
Feel free to experiment with colors that suit your skin undertones but take care to go for neutral events if the event calls for a classy look. Otherwise, go for bolder looks to make a statement.
Play around with Textures
Don’t just limit yourself to only wearing co-ord crochet pieces, mix and match with silk, denim and even leather outfits for a unique and balanced look.
Put Some Modern Twist to It
Before crochet became a trendy wear, crochet fashion was commonly known as ‘grandma fashion’ but now, with the different designs and styles available to crocheter contemporary crochet designs like crop tops, fitted dresses, or even crochet scarves can be incorporated for a trendy look.
Accessorize
Where wearing crochet will not be advised, you can accessorize your outfit with bags, hats, or scarves to add an original touch to your ensemble.
