Product of the week: Crochet

What is it:

The historical roots of crochet are quite obscure. Research suggests the technique may have originated from an ancient Chinese handicraft technique, while other sources claim it originated in Arabia or among indigenous peoples in South America and eventually spread to the Mediterranean. She took up her position in fashion in the 1960s and 1970s, when homemade crochet work became more and more popular. The current revival is largely due to the pandemic and the increasing DIY enthusiasm of people who have rediscovered knitting and crocheting as a hobby while being stuck at home. The trend has found its way into fashion retail and is particularly popular in the summer months.

Why you should order it:

The knit alternative offers variety for adventurous consumers, and while crochet is often thought of as a knit, its texture allows it to be worn any time of the year. Crochet is particularly popular during festival season, as its light weight and open pattern keep you cool while also being trendy. The trend has long since found its way into the collections of the major fashion houses and has contributed to the importance of craftsmanship in fashion again.

Where we saw it:

Boho crochet was a particularly popular part of the FW22 season. Etro led the way with its bohemian collection, where colorful crocheted two-piece suits and bell-bottoms provided some structure on the runway. Gabriela Hearst also opted for bold tones in crochet sets that employed intricate techniques. Similar two-piece suits were a key part of Acne Studios’ collection, where skirts, tops and cardigans have been crafted in this experimental material. Chanel showcased an alternative crochet technique in a four-piece outfit for its Pre-Fall 2022 collection, with each piece a matching shade of purple. AGR took an even bolder take on the crochet trend as the brand featured rainbow crochet pieces as part of their clubwear collection.

How to style it:

With festival or summer attire in mind, crochet pieces work well either with contrasting materials like leather or denim, or paired with coordinating pieces in a two-piece suit. Since the garments can be see-through, combine nude underwear or slips to create a sheer effect without actually showing too much skin. For the colder months, crochet fashion can be paired with winter-ready pieces to brave the weather. For example, a strapless crochet top can be worn over a turtleneck. The same goes for a crochet dress, where an underlying layer provides a little more protection from the elements.

With its long history and influence on craftsmanship, crochet plays an important role in fashion, especially in this day and age when DIY techniques are so prevalent in production. It offers people an exciting alternative to the usual knitwear and can be worn all year round.

This article was previously similarly published on FashionUnited.uk.