LOS ALAMITOS, CA — Whether you’re looking to add a touch of color to your winter wardrobe or simply stay up-to-date with the latest fashion trends, it’s the perfect time to add a crocheted piece to your closet.
Crochet clothing has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity, firmly establishing itself as a prominent trend in contemporary fashion. Crochet has changed throughout time, evolving into a versatile and stylish option for people’s wardrobes. Originally, it was predominantly associated with handmade, bohemian aesthetics; however, crocheting has grown from a traditional craft to a sought-after fashion statement, primarily due to designers and fashion enthusiasts embracing its intricate and textured nature.
Crochet, once popular in the 1970s, has returned to the fashion industry thanks to designers and boutiques reimagining the traditional method and providing a novel perspective. There’s something for everyone to enjoy, with crocheted outfits, handbags, dresses, and even bikinis and bucket hats.
“I have not encountered that many people [who] are into crocheting, but I will say it’s more popular than sewing,” said Nathan Yee, a senior at Los Alamitos High School.
In recent fashion runway shows, crochet has taken center stage, proving its enduring appeal and versatility. Renowned designers have skillfully incorporated crochet into their collections, showcasing its adaptability to various styles and silhouettes.
Open and detailed crochet designs were exhibited in Victoria Beckham, Interior, Jil Sander, and Gabriela Hearst’s spring and summer 2023 collections. Dresses and tops with crochet floral appliqués of Roberta Einer and Alejandra Alonso Rojas were also displayed.
Dior’s creative director, Maria Grazia Chiuri, integrated crochet into the Cruise 2020 collection. The show included beautiful crochet gowns, vests, and accessories against the gorgeous backdrop of Marrakesh. The crochet pieces were employed to bring a touch of unique craftsmanship and artistic flair to Dior’s signature grace, proving crochet’s adaptability in high fashion.
The crochet revolution has been fueled by the fashion industry’s renewed interest in handcrafted and creative aspects, which highlights the demand for unique, sustainable designs. In addition to continuing to make an impact on the runways, crochet clothing also reflects a larger cultural shift toward an appreciation of the originality and expertise that handmade items bring to the fashion industry.
Interestingly, younger individuals have long considered crocheting and knitting to be “uncool” or a hobby their grandma enjoys in her free time. However, thanks to the fashion industry, crocheting has recently gone viral on TikTok, with hundreds of individuals sharing videos online of their crocheted tops and clothing pieces.
Ι wanted to be able to make my own clothes and tailor it to my style. It’s fun figuring out what designs Ι want to use.”
— Leilani Ngo-Harris, senior
As TikTok “how-to” videos began circulating, the hobby grew more popular due to its budget-friendly aspect. The platform especially appeals to younger viewers, who were influenced by the trend and in turn influenced the fashion industry to begin distributing more crochet clothing. In the past couple of years, crochet tops began popping up in just about every clothing store popular with Gen Z.
The popularity of crocheted clothes has grown significantly, solidifying its position as a prominent trend in modern fashion. It seems that crochet fashion is a trend that’s here to stay!
