How to Pull Off The Crochet Trend Without Feeling Naked

With the continued surge of nostalgic fashion, “naked” trends are part of the equation, from skin-baring cutouts to flesh-toned, body-skimming silhouettes. And, of course, up-to-there hemlines and ultra low-rise waists à la Miu Miu’s viral miniskirt or trending low-slung denim. Crochet outfits are up next for spring and summer with a decidedly delicate and handcrafted feel. But despite the revealing nature of the knitted look, there are genuinely wearable ways to pull it off without feeling too bare. You can layer crochet pieces with tailoring, like a linen blazer or trousers, or when skewing more casual, team knitted separates with relaxed denim and sandals.

The trend can be as bold as you make it, so if you’re not ready for a matching crop top and miniskirt moment, look for the detail in the trim lining of a floral print dress or opt for a crochet bag. Stacy Smallwood, the owner of the Charleston boutique Hampden, links the design to arts-and-crafts styles hand-knitted by grandmothers with a less than modern aesthetic. But for 2023, she says, “Many designers have adapted the look to be thin, soft, and way more wearable,” like Gabriela Hearst’s designs for Chloé or in the collections of Altuzarra and Simkhai. The pieces focused on crochet knitwear, shell embroideries, and handwoven handbags.

Ahead, discover nine crochet outfits you can wear throughout the season, most importantly, without the too-revealing stress. Of course, with an edit to shop.

A Crochet Maxi Dress

Trust a crochet maxi dress to do all hard work and keep it easy when accessorizing. Add flat sandals, a shoulder bag or basket, and a touch of gold jewelry for an effortlessly chic I-didn’t-even-try look.

Summer Office Style

You might not expect crochet to feel office appropriate. But for summer, when dress codes allow for more breathing room, pair a tightly woven vest or tank with a breathable cotton midi skirt. Or, consider a loosely pleated trouser as another chic option. Finish with heeled sandals, mules, or loafers; in any case, this formula will effortlessly transition to the evening.

With Tailored Linen & Denim

While crochet is perfect for vacationing, it’s a great transition look with denim and tailored linen pieces as spring heats up, whether you go the separates route with a top or skirt or lean into woven accessories.

Serious Saturation

Douse yourself in colorful crochet for a summery take on dopamine dressing. Using this Dodo Bar Or patchwork dress as your base, pull in the different color palettes through the accessories. Top the look off with a blazer for a more polished look suitable for spring and summer nights.

A Peek Of Crochet

Style a crochet bra or crop top under a button-down shirt or open blazer for just a touch of the trend. Then, to steer the look in a polished direction with accessories, choose a trendy pair of Mary-Jane flats or slides and finish with a leather mini bag.

Unexpectedly Sexy

Smallwood points to Simkhai’s white crochet shirt and pants set for an unexpectedly sexy summer look if you’re comfortable baring a bit of skin. For a bolder pop of color, go for a matching set from Calle Del Mar, like in this eggplant shade. Take this outfit in a fun direction by finishing with two-tone silver and yellow gold jewelry and strappy heeled sandals.

Woven Accessories

Nonchalance is one of crochet’s greatest appeals. To master the vibe pair a slip dress and crochet bag for a very easy approach to day-to-night dressing. Playful charm and beaded jewelry is a great way to elevate the look further while maintaining a summery aesthetic, whether you choose a bold necklace, bracelet, or pair of earrings.

Quirky Cool

Go the quirky-cool route with a whimsical crochet top paired with tailored shorts or trousers. Smallwood says a knitted bag will keep things summery. Pair with mules for a pop of color, and stud earrings ensure an elevated finish.

A Touch Of Trim

Crochet accents, like trim, are another subtler take on the 2023 trend. Smallwood says it allows you to get in on the look without going overboard. For example, choosing a crochet-lined dress as your focal point lets you keep things easy with impact by styling with color-coordinated shoes and accessories and a sleek handbag.