Fashion trends never fail to encourage us to adopt different style “personas” in our own unique way. We’ve travelled back to the noughties and lived life as preppy, high school students in our Y2k-inspired outfits. Over the years, we’ve also fully embraced the “uniforms” worn by sporty athletes and gym-goers and turned them into everyday athleisure wear.
As for the latest style “persona” trendsetting celebs and influencers are taking notes from, it’s none other than our grandmothers whose homely crochet collection reigns supreme on the runway and “real” way. Read on to learn more about the comeback of this granny-approved fashion trend.
Crochet on Rihanna, Nicole Richie and more
Earlier in May, eternally cool queen Rihanna posted an Instagram photo of herself in a summer-ready custom crochet dress and matching pumps from Bottega Veneta. Less than two weeks later, the singer was spotted in Los Angeles wearing the trend again — this time with a crochet halter bra and matching skirt.
Concurrently, one of the “original” bohemian style queens in Hollywood and former reality TV star Nicole Richie released a collaboration collection between her fashion label House of Harlow and her sister Sofia Richie that includes a selection of easy-going crochet knit dresses.
Meanwhile, former Victoria’s Secret model Elsa Hosk exuded positive, happy vibes in her cheery crochet ensemble too. It featured a long-sleeve polo, matching shorts and a small tote bag from Mango.
In short, crochet’s back in trend in 2021 and celebs are in favour of the movement.
As seen at Oscar de la Renta and Cult Gaia
Similarly, designers have incorporated this knitted wonder into their pieces too. New York-based fashion brand Oscar de la Renta dressed top models Soo-Joo Park and Irina Shayk in intricate crochet pieces for their Pre-Fall 2021 collection campaign.
Meanwhile, Cult Gaia — the lifestyle brand that rose to prominence with its crescent-shaped wooden “Ark” bag — also introduced a range of skin-baring dresses and swimwear separates that feature hand-crochet details.
Introducing crochet into your closet (and home)
The resurgence of crochet fashion can be easily attributed to the summer season in the West since it’s a much more heat-friendly way for fashionable folks to embrace the joy of knitwear even as the temperatures rise.
Fortunately for those of us who are based in Southeast Asia, it’s summer almost all year round, which means that we can hop on this trend without worrying about looking out of place. Furthermore, most crochet fashion pieces are made with soft-touch, cotton fabric, making them blend seamlessly with our comfort-focused, #stayhome wardrobe.
(Left) Zara Crochet Crop Top, SGD45.90/~USD34 (Photo from: zara.com). (Right) Urban Outfitters Eggs ‘N’ Toast Crochet Coaster Set (4 pieces), SGD21/~USD16 (Photo from: sg.urbanoutfitters.com)
For starters, go with a simple, white cropped number just like the one above from Zara. Pair it with a fun, multi-coloured pair of crochet shorts, or go with a fuss-free denim skirt. Heading to the supermarket? Throw on a cropped cardigan and you’re good to go.
Alternatively, you can also add a touch of quirky, homely character to your living space with fun, crochet accessories too, such as Urban Outfitters’ Eggs ‘N’ Toast Crochet Coaster Set.
(Left) Mango Handmade Crochet Crop Top, SGD89.90/~USD68 (Photo from: mango.com). (Right) Oysho Flare Crochet Trousers, SGD69.90/~USD52 (Photo from: oysho.com).
Looking for slightly dressier options? There’s the ecru-hued Mango Handmade Crochet Crop Top, which goes beautifully with distressed denim for a casual yet put-together ‘fit. For indoor, air-conditioned environments, simply layer a classic white button-down shirt underneath it.
Soaking up sun rays by the beach or the pool? Slide into Oysho’s Flare Crochet Trousers, which give off a sleek, resort-ready feel with its flared hem and dark navy and white colourway.
So, will you be picking up a cool, crochet piece anytime soon?
(Cover photos from: mango.com and sg.urbanoutfitters.com)
Did you know? Crocheting and knitting are considered slow living activities.
Discover what slow travelling is like during the pandemic.
Comments, questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected].
Related Articles
