No matter how much things change, they stay the same. Sure, time passes, but without fail, every season has its form of essentials—i.e., the experiences or items that feel as if they fulfill the trope that's associated with that period. For some, summer is defined by what you choose to eat, where you decide to travel, and even who you spend your time with. But for fashion people, it always comes back to what we're wearing. In our minds, summer isn't summer unless you're frolicking under the sun in "cliché" staples (e.g., sandals and a sundress).
As trite as that may sound, it's undeniable that clothing is just as much a part of the summer experience as anything else. After all, you can't make that quintessential pilgrimage to the beach sans swimsuit. And you're sure as hell not going to leave for your summer vacation without packing clothing. So investing in summer basics is as much of a rite of passage for the season as any other activity. Of course, there's a long list of items one can consider essential for summer, but in my mind, there's one nonnegotiable: crochet clothing.
Like clockwork, crochet pieces always come back once warmer temperatures ascend. But make no mistake. This isn't another fleeting trend. Crochet pieces have become the epitome of summer style, surpassing the "trendy" status to become an anti-trend staple in its own right. Don't believe me? Ahead, I've pulled receipts to show how crochet continues to be an essential part of the summertime experience. So let's get into it…
Crochet on the runway:
Even though crochet has been cemented as a timeless staple, I'd be remiss if I didn't acknowledge how crochet pieces (in every form) reached that status. In part, the prevalence of crochet pieces has to do with how they've continued to be part of runway collections over the years. Spring/summer 2023 runways are no exception to that rule, as we saw designers take this "dated trend" and turn it on its head by using special weaving techniques.
For example, open cobweb-like weaves that looked like they were on the brink of unraveling (purposely, of course) were spotted in the S/S 23 collections of Victoria Beckham, Interior, Jil Sander, and Gabriela Hearst. At the same time, we saw gowns and tops adorned with crochet rosette appliqués at Roberta Einer and Alejandra Alonso Rojas. There were shirts, skirts, and dresses that featured ultra-dainty crochet that looked like vintage doilies at The Row, Maryam Nassir Zadeh, and Simkhai. Though the knitting technique differed between designers, the spring/summer 2023 collections showed crochet's continued staying power.
Crochet on the fashion set:
It's not just the runways that have shown crochet's continued relevance. Like ice cream on a hot day, crochet pieces have become woven into the visual iconography of what defines the season. After all, you can't scroll through social media without spotting a fashion person wearing some form of a crochet piece (even if we haven't reached the "official" start of summer). The pervasiveness of this trend can be boiled down to its versatility.
Not only can crochet pieces be worn by everyone for almost any type of occasion, but there are also so many ways to embrace them. From crochet swim cover-ups to woven tote bags, there's no shortage of ways to wear this staple in a way that feels signature to your sartorial preferences. It's that flexibility that's cemented crochet pieces as a perennial summer staple. But if you're still not sold, keep scrolling. I've rounded up the 45 best crochet finds for the summer.
Shop the best crochet pieces for summer:
Perfect for a day spent by the beach.
You can also shop this dress in a vibrant cobalt hue and a black version.
Not your basic bikini.
Pair with the matching Crochet Bikini Bottoms ($125).
Honestly surprised this collaboration still has anything in stock.
I have no words for these wedges.
Love a matching set.
How cute is this open-weave crochet top?
No one makes crochet pieces as jaw-droppingly gorgeous as Diotima.
I will dream of this dress for the rest of my days.
Okay, Mango. Pop off!
Crying, screaming, throwing up.
Didn't know I needed crochet briefs until now.
Miu Miu gets it.
Speaking from personal experience, this dress is so flattering.
Three words: crochet ballet flats. Enough said.
Yes, I want to wear a crochet bikini adorned with seashells by the seashore this summer—do you blame me?
Pair with the matching Shell Tie Bikini Bottoms ($120).
A crochet floral choker? Here for it.
There's no shortage of ways you can style this crochet raffia clutch.
Please take a second to admire the neckline on this dress.
Espadrilles are an underrated summer essential.
She's cute.
You can lounge just about anywhere in this crochet bralette.
Another great Staud piece!
Crochet pieces don't just have to be made from yarn. As long as the weaving technique is the same, you can shop pieces made from other materials (e.g., leather) and still pay homage to the trend.
The way this dress just told me to book a vacation.
The addition of linen around the bodice balances how opaque the crochet doilies are on this tank.
Sea's crochet pieces are so well-made.
Mark my words: All the cool girls will be wearing crochet earrings this summer.
The dip-dyed technique on this dress is to die for.
Wear this with your signature staples to give it a summer-forward spin.
Trust me—it's worth taking the time to zoom in and see the small rosettes on this swimsuit.
Pair with the matching Mackenzie String Crochet Bikini Bottom ($110).
You won't regret packing these pants for a vacation.
Spice up your signature swimsuit with this see-through crochet dress.
Give off preppy vibes by pairing this crochet polo with trousers and slide sandals.
The mere idea of lounging in crochet shorts by the sea is speaking to my soul right now.
The crocheted detailing makes these Converse all the cooler.
Cute, cute, cute.
Opting for a crochet hat is the easiest way for the commitment adverse to test-drive this trend.
Can you tell I'm a sucker for a crochet top with a dramatic bust?
PatBo always makes perfectly beach-ready pieces.
Now here's a crochet tote big enough to fit all of your summer reading list into.
For evenings by the sea, this sweater is a must.
Gap comin' in clutch with this cute (and cheap) crochet skirt.
Girls just want crochet Prada sandals.
If the contrasting chest detail on this knit dress can't sell you on crochet, nothing can.
