From humble hand-stitched beginnings to high-fashion collections, crochet sets have charted a remarkable journey. Once associated with grandmothers’ weekend crafts and bohemian festival wear, crochet is now seen gracing the runways of Chanel, Bottega Veneta, and Oscar de la Renta. This revival of a centuries-old technique tells a broader story about sustainability, slow fashion, craftsmanship, and creative expression.
In this post, we’ll trace the resurgence of crochet sets in modern fashion, unpack what makes them so appealing today, and explore how you can incorporate them into your wardrobe in 2025.
The History of Crochet: From Utility to Aesthetic
Crochet—derived from the French word for “hook”—has long been part of domestic textile arts. Its exact origin is debated, but it gained popularity in 19th-century Europe. At first, crochet was a low-cost alternative to lace and used to craft household items like doilies, tablecloths, and baby clothing.
By the 1960s and 70s, crochet moved beyond the home and became a symbol of countercultural fashion. Think bell-bottoms, bralettes, and halter tops—crochet was everywhere, synonymous with the free-spirited, DIY ethos of the hippie movement.
But by the late 1980s and early 90s, crochet fell out of mainstream fashion, relegated mostly to craft circles and vintage shops. Until now.
Crochet’s Comeback: Why Now?
1. The Rise of Slow Fashion
One of the biggest reasons crochet has returned is the rise of slow fashion. As consumers question the ethics of fast fashion, handmade and sustainable pieces have gained value. Crochet, which is inherently labor-intensive and rarely machine-made, fits perfectly within this ethos.
2. Pandemic-Era Nostalgia and DIY Boom
During the pandemic, people turned to tactile, creative outlets to cope with stress—crochet being one of the top picks. From TikTok tutorials to Etsy booms, crochet kits and handmade sets became extremely popular among Gen Z and millennials looking to slow down.
3. Runway Approval
High fashion designers began incorporating crochet into their collections with refined silhouettes, vibrant colors, and innovative patterns. Labels like Dior, JW Anderson, and Gabriela Hearst elevated the aesthetic of crochet, showcasing its versatility in sets, dresses, and outerwear.
4. Inclusivity and Body Positivity
Crochet’s flexibility allows it to contour to various body shapes, making it a favorite for inclusive fashion lines. Whether it’s a crop top and skirt set, a two-piece loungewear combo, or a co-ord designed for layering, crochet adapts beautifully to different sizes and preferences.
What Exactly Are Crochet Sets?
Crochet sets typically involve coordinated two-piece outfits—most commonly tops and skirts, bralettes and pants, or cardigans and shorts. These sets often feature:
- Intricate patterns: Shell stitches, granny squares, lacy waves
- Natural fibers: Cotton, bamboo yarn, wool blends
- Artisan finishes: Hand-stitched borders, unique buttons, tassels
Designers are pushing the boundaries with matching sets in bold colors, sophisticated neutrals, and metallic threads, making them suitable for both casual wear and high-end fashion.
How Crochet Sets Evolved from Boho to Chic
In earlier decades, crochet was largely pigeonholed into “boho” aesthetics—flower child vibes, beachwear, or festival fashion. But the 2020s have redefined that narrative.
From Casual to Couture
Designers now tailor crochet sets in sharp silhouettes and minimalistic palettes, suitable for urban wardrobes. Think pencil skirts with structured crop tops, high-waist shorts with matching capes, or sleek wide-leg pants paired with fitted halters.
From Seasonal to Year-Round
While originally seen as summer staples, crochet sets are now being adapted for year-round wear. Winter sets in wool blends, layered crochet dusters, and sweater sets make this craft viable even in colder months.
From Niche to Mainstream
Crochet sets are now featured in mainstream retailers like Zara, Mango, Free People, and ASOS. Simultaneously, Instagram and Pinterest are flooded with fashion influencers donning hand-made or upcycled crochet co-ords.
Celebrities and Influencers Leading the Trend
Crochet’s revival wouldn’t be as widespread without major celebrity endorsements. Stars like:
- Zendaya in colorful crochet maxis
- Bella Hadid rocking granny square bralettes
- Hailey Bieber in coordinated crochet vacation sets
- Harry Styles in gender-fluid crochet cardigans
…have brought mainstream attention to this handmade aesthetic.
On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, influencers and crochet designers are also showcasing DIY patterns, styling tips, and new age crochet sets—proving that this trend isn’t just about nostalgia, but innovation.
Styling Crochet Sets: 2025 Edition
Wondering how to wear crochet sets today without looking outdated or costume-y? Here are a few style-forward tips:
1. Keep it Tailored
Go for sets with clean lines and structured silhouettes. Pair a crochet crop top with a high-waist A-line skirt or wide-leg trousers.
2. Monochrome or Muted Tones
While colorful granny square sets are still popular, earthy tones like terracotta, sage, beige, and cream add a touch of modern sophistication.
3. Mix with Modern Pieces
Pair a crochet top with jeans or a blazer. Use crochet bottoms with a crisp white shirt. Mixing textures is key.
4. Accessorize Wisely
Minimal accessories—gold hoops, sleek bags, neutral sandals—keep the look polished and not overly “crafty.”
5. Think Beyond Summer
Layer a crochet bralette over a turtleneck or wear a crochet cardigan over a satin slip dress. Look for chunkier yarns or heavier patterns for colder months.
Crochet Sets & Sustainability
One of the most important aspects of the crochet comeback is its alignment with sustainable fashion values. Here’s how:
- Low Waste: Crochet can be done with leftover yarns, creating minimal waste.
- Durability: High-quality crochet doesn’t wear out easily and can last generations.
- Handmade Economy: Buying handmade sets supports artisans and local makers.
- Customizability: Many small businesses offer made-to-measure options, reducing mass production.
In a time when fast fashion contributes massively to pollution and labor exploitation, crochet offers a refreshing alternative rooted in tradition, mindfulness, and care.
DIY Movement: Crafting Your Own Set
The DIY crochet community is booming. Online platforms like YouTube, Skillshare, and Instagram have become home to countless free and paid tutorials. Whether you’re a beginner or expert, you can craft your own stylish crochet set with a few tools:
- Crochet hooks (start with 4.0 mm)
- Medium weight cotton yarn
- Stitch markers and tape measure
- A pattern or visual guide
Crafting your own set lets you explore your creativity and create personalized, made-to-fit fashion that no one else has.
What’s Next for Crochet Sets?
The crochet set trend is not a flash-in-the-pan. Here’s what we predict next:
1. Genderless Designs
Expect more brands to launch crochet sets that are unisex or gender-fluid, with oversized fits and modular designs.
2. Tech Meets Craft
3D crochet patterns, smart textiles, and crochet integrated with technology (like heated yarns or LEDs) may start to emerge.
3. Cultural Influence
Designers are fusing traditional crochet with cultural motifs—from African lace styles to Indian embroidery, leading to unique global aesthetics.
4. Luxury Market Expansion
Luxury labels will continue to reinvent crochet, using rare yarns, complex stitches, and bespoke tailoring to elevate the craft to couture.
Final Thoughts: From Hobby to Haute
Crochet sets are a beautiful blend of past and future. Their resurgence signals a shift in how we view fashion—not just as trends, but as storytelling, sustainability, and skill. Whether it’s handcrafted by a local artisan or purchased from a high-end boutique, crochet speaks to the desire for authenticity in what we wear.
So, whether you’re lounging at home in a cozy two-piece, dressing up for brunch in a matching pastel set, or crocheting your own outfit from scratch, know this: you’re part of a movement that values creativity, care, and craftsmanship.
Crochet sets are here to stay—on the runway, in our closets, and in our hearts.
