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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Lifestyle
Peter Bevan

How to wear crochet for summer: Tips on styling dresses, tops and more

Nothing says summer like crochet.

I was fairly late to the party myself, only finding my love for the beachy contruction in 2020 thanks to Harry Styles setting the trend in the sepia-toned Watermelon Sugar music video - and it seems I’m not the only one.

Ever since seeing the artist in his crochet tank paired with oversized sunglasses, vintage necklaces and Gucci trousers, the world has gone mad for the warm weather-ready textile. Whether you’re looking high end or high street, you can find beautifully crocheted pieces across the entire price spectrum.

Perfect for festival season or sun-drenched holidays you’ve got on the horizon, now’s the perfect time to invest so you get the most wear out of your purchase. Even better, if its growing popularity in the last few years are anything to go by, it’s an investment that will last.

This year, the crochet dress is still going strong, but the up-and-coming design is the two-piece set. Both could be worn as a bikini coverup thanks to the breathable credentials, solo for casual daytime exploring, or even elevated with heels for date night. If a full look is too much for you, though, you can wear a tank à la Styles or even opt for a simple bag or hat, instead.

Whichever you choose, you could pair it with your favourite sandals and basket bag for an easy bohemian look. Our top tip? It’s best if the things you style it with look a touch worn in or vintage. Distressed denim, Birkenstocks and vintage jewellery will up the bohemian ante - and deliver the laid-back look the fabric is perfect for.

Keep scrolling for the best.

The Dress

River Island Orange Striped Crochet Midi Dress

For trend-led pieces that don’t break the bank, it’s River Island that should be on your wishlist - and this dress will take you from the beach to the bar in both style and comfort.

Buy now £45.00, River Island

The Upside Palmer Elsa striped cotton-crochet mini dress

An activewear brand at heart, The Upside’s collections have sporty undertones whilst being perfect for wear outside of the gym too - as proven by this crochet mini.

Tennis... but make it beach. The chic silhouette and colourway wouldn’t look out of place on-court, whilst the fabric is ideal for soaking up the summer sun. A win-win.

Buy now £270.00, MatchesFashion

Nobody’s Child Pink & Orange Chevron Crochet Racer Midi Dress

From the racer silhouette to the red and pink chevron stripe, this is a vaycay-ready dress that’s easy to dress up or down. In the brand’s signature style, it’s constructed using 100 per cent organic cotton for a responsible purchase.

Buy now £75.00, Nobody’s Child

The Top

Urban Outfitters Gigi Stripe Cami Top

A little crochet cami worn with denim is a match made in heaven. Whether you pair it with shorts, jeans or a skirt, make sure the denim doesn’t look fresh-out-the-box to lean in to the free-spirited look.

Buy now £32.00, Urban Outfitters

Monki White crochet look top with collar

Erring on the more formal side of crochet, this cream shirt could easily be worn to the office during the summer months. If the neutral hue isn’t for you, it’s available in bright orange as well.

Buy now £30.00, Monki

Kitri Marley Lilac Stripe Crochet Knit Top

The sweater vest look is still a major vibe in 2023, so why not opt for a crochet version for summer? We love the candy-coloured lilac stripe by Kitri which would look best dressed up with boyfriend-fit jeans and heels.

Buy now £95.00, Kitri

The Set

Zara Crochet Top and Shorts

If you’re in the market for a bohemian look, then Zara’s set should be going straight in your basket. Just look at the folksy photoshoot - need we say more?

Top £19.99, shorts £22.99

Buy now, Zara

Cult Gaia Nikki bead-embellished crochet-knit top and coverup

Cult Gaia’s beaded crochet two-piece is perfect for beach days when you want to look your best. If you’re heading to Ibiza, Hvar or Mykonos this summer, this is the set you need in your suitcase.

Top £307, shorts £332

Buy now, Net-A-Porter

& Other Stories Colour-Blocked Hand-Crocheted Top & Shorts

Vibrant, laid-back and easy-to-wear, & Other Stories have hit the summer nail on the head with this hand-crocheted co-ord. Dress it up with heels and a grab bag for a simple yet impactful evening outfit.

Top £120, shorts £75

Buy now, & Other Stories

The Accessories

Pull & Bear Floral Crochet Tote Bag

The ultimate beach bag, Pull & Bear’s crochet tote offers ample space for a book, some drinks and a beach towel - not forgetting the all important SPF, of course.

Buy now £35.99, Pull & Bear

Ganni Crochet Bucket Hat

A crochet bucket hat is a cute addition to any casual holiday look. The embroidered Ganni logo takes this bubblegum pink design to the next level - and it will protect you from the sun, too.

Buy now £95.00, Ganni

Marni x No Vacancy Inn Fussbett raffia-effect slides

If you love dressing in colour, Italian designer Marni is the place to go - especially its collaboration with No Vacancy Inn, another designer that has a penchant for all things bright and beautiful.

These sandals are a case in point thanks to the sunny wavy crochet stripe. Finished with a rubber sole and leather details, they don’t compromise on comfort either.

Buy now £617.00, MyTheresa

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