The Return of Craft: How Crochet & Knits are Reweaving Fash

There’s a quiet revolution happening on the runway and in closets around the world—and it’s made of yarn. Once relegated to grandma’s living room or flea market racks, hand-knitted and crochet pieces are now at the forefront of modern fashion, blurring the line between traditional craft and high style.

Crochet is having a comeback—but this time, it’s intentional, bold, and undeniably cool. From open-weave dresses seen at shows like Ulla Johnson and Gabriela Hearst to chunky-knit vests and hand-stitched accessories flooding Instagram feeds, these pieces speak to something deeper than trend. They reflect a growing desire for fashion that feels personal, slow, and soulful.

“Every stitch tells a story,” says Chloe Santiago, a Grand Rapids-based designer who built her entire collection around handmade crochet. “You can feel the time, the love, and the intention behind it.”

Forget everything you thought you knew about crochet. This isn't just about doilies and afghans. Today’s creators are pushing the boundaries, using intricate stitches to craft avant-garde silhouettes, textured separates, and even eveningwear. Think metallic threads woven into spiderweb-like halters, rainbow granny-square sets reimagined as festival wear, and sculptural sleeves so detailed they could belong in a gallery. The flexibility of yarn allows for infinite creative expression, making it a favorite medium for emerging designers focused on sustainable, one-of-a-kind fashion.

In an industry plagued by overproduction and fast-turnaround seasons, crochet and knitting represent the antithesis of fast fashion. Most pieces can’t be machine-made—meaning each item is handcrafted, slowly, often taking hours or even days to complete. This makes them not just garments, but artifacts of care and labor. Many independent brands and Etsy creators are also upcycling yarn or repurposing deadstock materials, turning sustainability into a stylish and ethical statement.

Not sure how to wear crochet without looking like you raided a thrift bin? Try pairing a crochet bralette with high-waisted jeans and a blazer for balance. Throw a chunky knit vest over a satin slip dress for texture play. Crochet accessories—like hats and bags—can add handmade charm to minimalist outfits. Or go full boho with matching granny-square sets, keeping hair and makeup modern to avoid feeling too retro.

In a time where AI is designing prints and fashion moves faster than ever, crochet and hand-knits ground us. They remind us that fashion can still be human, warm, and intentional. These pieces invite us to slow down, support artisans, and wear something made with heart. So whether it’s a cozy cardigan or a daring open-knit dress, don’t be afraid to get tangled up in the magic of crochet. Your wardrobe—and the planet—will thank you.