Crocheting: The Sustainable Fashion Trend You Won’t Want to Miss
Image Courtesy: Magzter
I’ve had a cottagecore-colorful-granny sized hole in my heart that has now been filled. I’ve dreamt of all the bright, modern crochet designs ever since the cold weather hit. The last time crochet was a big trend was back in the 70s, and the new resurgence has incorporated the groovy, laidbackness of that era.
Born out of quarantine boredom and still going strong in 2022, crocheting is a trend that we can’t seem to get enough of. Crocheted tote bags, vests, bras, and bucket hats are on the rise. It says something that this trend has still stuck around even after lockdown has ended (R.I.P. sourdough starter). One thing I love about this style is that it wasn’t born out of a runway or a fast-fashion brand, but out of pure isolation and love for crafting. Crocheting is faster and easier to learn than other crafts such as knitting and embroidery, which is one of the reasons it has taken off on social media. Another reason for its popularity is that it is relatively inexpensive. To crochet, you only need yarn and a crochet needle, and maybe a pattern, which are all things you could get at your local craft store. It is also calming and good for your brain while being portable since it is easy to carry around the yarn.
Image Courtesy: Strike FSU
Examining these slow fashion trends is fascinating because sustainability has been a hot topic of conversation in the fashion world. While more people are opening the discussion regarding how the fast fashion industry is greatly harming the planet, the landfills keep piling up with clothes. There have been efforts to reduce waste, which is seen in this trend. It can also be seen in the tote bag trend, for people use their own bag instead of a disposable one. It is so refreshing that it is finally “cool” to take your own bags to the store and see other trends that celebrate slow fashion and craftsmanship.
Image Courtesy: ShopCarolannie
It is far more sustainable to make your own clothes, but it is extremely time-consuming. As a result, small businesses across various social media platforms are able to make a living selling their crafts- sort of like a virtual craft fair. In the digital age where marketing and advertising have been put in the hands of the individual, users have developed a stronger sense of comfort. The digitizing of trends has allowed people to be more confident in sharing and selling their crafts online, serving as one benefit of social media. Such platforms allow us to celebrate individuality in a unique way.
Image Courtesy: Checkeredmess on Etsy
As of late, crochet has hit the runway. Such whimsical patterns and vivid colors have been picked up by designers in the past few fashion seasons, as the trends of the 70s are starting to be more popular. “Spring/Summer 2021 fashion crowns crochet as the key trend, as seen at Fendi and Bottega Veneta.” In addition, Valentino incorporated several colorful crochet looks last season. I can’t wait to see what the runway will bring for this trend in 2022!
Image Courtesy: GimmeKaya
One smaller brand I want to highlight is Gimmie Kaya. Their clothes are adorable, the owner is always working on new patterns, and their Instagram looks straight out of a magazine. They have models of all shapes and sizes posed in front of creative, unique backdrops for photoshoots, while their other pictures are just exploding with color.
Image Courtesy: L’Officiel
Personally, I have a few friends who know how to crochet, so I've had the opportunity to try it out. Honestly, the process is very calming and rewarding. Now that I’ve ogled over cute, colorful pieces at craft fairs and on social media, it's time to go find my own groovy granny clothes.
Strike Out,
Writer: Marena Benoit
Editors: Breanna Tang & Lexi Fernandez
Graphic Designer: Kathleen Esguerra
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