Thread Counts for Cool
With its detailed textures and hand-made appeal, crochet provides the ultimate combination of tradition and trend. Its rise is more than a glance—it signals a shift toward gender fluidity, sustainability, and an appreciation for slow fashion.
Once a sentimental reminder of grandma's sofa throws, crochet has woven its way into the center of modern fashion. What was once a domesticated pastime is now a high-fashion statement, adopted by designers and streetwear labels alike. On the runway or in your feed, crochet proves that the past can be expertly sewn into the present, stitch by stitch.
Crochet has long been associated with colourful granny blankets hung over sofas, but it's recently experienced a huge style shift, becoming one of the most desirable fashion trends. On designer catwalks and high street rails, this one-time homespun craft is splashing across men's and women's fashion alike. Crochet today is smooth, chic, and worlds away from being stodgy. The trend has been given a boost by the likes of Pedro Pascal and Michael B. Jordan wearing brands like Bode and Harago, securing crochet's position in the modern man's closet.
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To see it back in style, it helps to reminisce. "Crochet" is derived from the French for "hook," and the method involves looping yarn to form textured, interlaced patterns. While it's nothing new, crochet tops–revisiting the retro string vest originally spotted in 1933–are currently all the rage. The original string vest, usually associated with retro masculinity and famously sported by symbols such as Marlon Brando and Yves Montand, has been recreated in gentle, dainty fabrics. What results is an updated, gender-bending style that is appealing to nearly anyone.
To adapt such luxurious trends to India's hot summers, emphasize airy fabrics and clever styling. Opt for lightweight tweed or crochet pieces in breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen and avoid the heat without losing out on style. Opt for loose silhouettes that don't hug the body, and introduce elements such as sheer layers or open-weave patterns so air can circulate freely. These understated picks not only upgrade your summer wardrobe but also bring high-fashion comfort into play during hot weather.
Currently, crochet is more than a technique—it's an expression of culture. While the 1970s saw the craft primarily existing for practical needs, contemporary crochet defies expectations of gender conventions and advocates green fashion, albeit remaining visually elegant. So-called "grannycore" aesthetics are currently very much back, particularly with such a large and sudden increase of interest in handicrafts.
In fact, during the pandemic, there was a 140% growth in the take-up of crochet. Currently, it's the most popular Pinterest trend, about 317,000 pins—far outpacing second-place "cutout dresses" at more than 88,000.
Amir Slama, Crochet-Panel Shirt, Rs 72,781
Casablanca, Wave Crochet Shirt, Rs 96,500
Altea, Crochet-Knit Shirt, Rs 44,328
Orlebar Brown, Thomas Shirt, Rs 83,921
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