Crochet. Remember that knit type thing which was mum’s favourite leisure activity? I remember her making these white placemats with crochet. I used to find it fascinating as the needle went up and down creating pretty patterns in minutes. This is now a big fashion statement.
Crochet originated from the French word meaning knot. It is a 19th century textile art form which originated in Arabia and was a means of expression of creativity for wealthy women. Chinese artisans are believed to have made dresses with crochet in the early part of the century. There have been documents to prove that Irish crochet lace was used as a means of livelihood in the 1800s by impoverished fisherwomen during the famine. Mademoiselle Riego de la Blanchardiere is said to be the pioneer of Irish lace who first documented it in books. Irish crochet lace is world famous now and it is believed to have been used by Sarah Burton to make Catherine Middleton’s wedding dress.
However, traditional crochet and macramé which was until now used in accessories alone — handbags, baskets, hats and scarves — has now made a huge appearance on the catwalk as clothing.
At fashion weeks the world over it was a huge trend. Proenza Schouler did a neon yellow and blue crochet skirt which was striking. Christopher Kane’s military type top in blue-black crochet is stunning to wear with jeans. The Sass and Bide black and white crochet dress with chain embellishment with its peek-a-boo element is tres interesting. Oscar De La Renta’s white crochet dress with a straw sun-hat is ideal for summer.
Gucci has the most beautiful macramé top in beige. Ideal for beach-wear. Also nice with a contrast bodice for a casual city evening out with the girls. Can be paired with jeans or a skirt. The fringe detail at the ends makes it playful and cheerful.
Crochet swimsuits are huge this season. Especially eye-catching is neon-coloured crochet bikinis hand sown with large almost oversized beads. None of the high street collections are complete without crochet tops and tunics. They have a Bohemian hippie vibe to them and still give a casual chic look. It has an artisan hand-made feel to it. Topshop, Zara, Mango have all created their own versions of the trend. Check it out.
The writer owns a fashion brand based in Europe. She can be reached on info@amishi.eu [1]
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[1] mailto:info@amishi.eu