For the past few seasons, we've seen a resurgence in '60s and '70s trends on the runways, which brought homespun and handicraft elements back into the spotlight. Undoubtedly, details like crochet, patchwork, and embroidery have been gaining popularity among the fashion set, and free-spirited pieces are being spotted all over Instagram. As these retro themes were taking hold of the fashion world, younger-generation TikTokers were sparking a DIY movement with deadstock, eco-conscious, and thrifted pieces. At the convergence of the two is a larger fashion aesthetic dubbed "craftcore."
As the name suggests, craftcore centers anything with handmade or upcycled elements, which happen to be so fun for summer. Some key themes to look out for in the market include crochet cardigans and dresses, patchwork jackets, and spliced denim. Videos of homemade DIYs have popped up all over TikTok, but fashion brands are also offering their answer to the trend. "Designers such as Ulla Johnson integrate crafted practices into their ranges to echo the vintage references and homespun qualities being explored by younger DIYers on social media," noted WGSN youth strategist Marian Park. "Other brands such as Sea also elevate this notion of craft to update the look into something that is contemporary boho and more premium alternatives to cottagecore. Bode is also a brand gaining a lot of attention—it is menswear, but it's resonating with women for its handmade or custom resort shirts."
Ahead, we're breaking down the pillars of the aesthetic—beaded details, crochet, embroidery, and patchwork—and bringing you the best shopping options within each.
Cool-Girl Crochet
The Granny Tank from NYC-based brand The Series has quickly become a fashion-person favorite this summer.
How stunning is this floral pattern?
Your plain tank tops could never.
A crochet bucket hat makes so much sense for the summer.
So cool.
Wear with denim shorts now and layer over an oxford shirt come fall.
Punchy Patchwork
Each of Bode's stunning quilted jackets is an art piece in its own right.
The ultimate '70s retro-inspired piece.
Fun fact: This shirt was made from reconstructed vintage and antique quilts.
Easy and wearable (and it comes with a matching shirt).
Who's ready for fall?
Delicate Decals
If you're wondering what modern boho style looks like in 2021, YanYan's cool knits are it.
I mean, how charming are these rosebud decals?
A stunner.
Tach Clothing's fun-loving knits are always beloved by the fashion crowd.
This top is giving me "lavender farm in the South of France" vibes.
Cardigan season is almost here again.
Beautiful Beading
We may be biased, but these sandals are perfection.
So special.
Staud's beaded bags just keep getting better and better.
Svnr designer Christina Tung creates her pieces from found and reused stones, so each one is unique.
This top is peak craftcore.
Fun loving and elevated, because you can do both.
Fun!
Well, this is something else.
Next up: Prediction: These 2021 Trends Won't Fizzle Out by 2022 (But These Will)
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