Crochet Dresses Aren't Going Anywhere for Summer 2024—Here Are 21 Styles That Prove It
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When you think of crochet, you might have visions of retro, technicolor blankets or that cozy winter scarf your grandma knitted for you for Christmas that one year. But the style’s become a summertime staple over the past few years. Fashion houses and designers the world over are reinventing the sexy, stylish throwback design with dress silhouettes that range from long maxis to micro-minis that show off your gams—and I've rounded up the best of the lot.
How I Chose the Best Crochet Dresses
I vetted crochet dresses based on comfortability, breathability for the warmer weather and, of course, style. I also combed through reviews galore to see which dresses actually lived up to their online hype and polled PureWow editors for some of their tried-and-true faves.
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The Best Crochet Dresses at a Glance
1. Reformation Inda Dress
As PureWow Associate Fashion Commerce Editor Stephanie Meraz points out, this dress is simply "to die for." She also says, "With the subtle bell-sleeves, it feels like it was tailor-made for me. I also appreciate that the crochet knit is tightly woven along the breasts and waist so I can wear it without feeling totally naked." Besides its fab design, the dress is also made from eco-friendly organic cotton that will still feel breathable in the hot summer weather.
2. Ann Taylor Crochet Trim Dress
If you’re not totally sold on the style but want to dip your toes in it, this crochet-trimmed beauty from Ann Taylor is just the ticket. The fun magenta color gives it a bold look, while the midi length ensures you can wear it for tons of different occasions, from a beachside brunch to your next wedding shower. (Psst: It comes in petite sizes, too.)
3. Abercrombie & Fitch Crochet-Style Mini Dress
Personally, the crochet dress I’m eyeing for my summer wardrobe this stunning mini from Abercrombie & Fitch. The V neckline is flattering without being overly low-cut, and I love that there’s a built-in lining so I won’t have to worry about finding a slip that perfectly matches. Shoppers say it’s stretchy, too, which is always a bonus in my book.
$110; $94 at Abercrombie & Fitch
4. Faithfull The Brand Serena Dress
Another pick from Meraz, this sheer beauty is a must-have for your summer travels. She shares, “If you know me, then you know I’m a sucker for anything Faithfull the Brand, partly because their clothes make me feel like I'm on a chic, European vacation when I’m wearing them, but mainly because they’re so well-constructed. This crochet dress makes such a sexy cover-up and is an especially good pick if you’re curious about the barely-there sheer trend but don’t want to embrace it in your everyday style.” Consider me sold.
5. Elan Crochet Maxi Dress
If you really want to play up the boho vibes, snag this patterned maxi that has a fun fringe bottom. It fits true-to-size, per the brand, and reviewers say they love wearing it both as a cover-up and a dress. Of note, though, reviewers also mention this one isn’t lined, so if you’re planning to don it to dinner, you’ll want to pick up a slip or bodysuit to toss underneath.
6. Show Me Your Mumu Paula Pullover
PureWow Wellness Director Sarah Stiefvater raves over this colorful cover-up that she loves so much, she’s planning on scooping up in a second iteration. She says, “I have this Show Me Your Mumu cover-up in black, but I'm *really* tempted to snag this multicolored cutie as well. It's on the shorter side if you're tall, but the oversize cut balances the mini length beautifully. It also comes in several other colors—both vibrant and neutral.” (And I’ll be adding at least one to my own cart.)
7. 525 Tori Dress
For something a little more subtle that you can truly wear anywhere, this light brown pick from 525 should do the trick. It’s made from 100 percent cotton, so it should feel nice and airy, and the crochet paneling at the neckline and hem sets it apart from other similarly cut styles.
8. LSPACE x Anthropologie Hailee Dress
This ombré maxi, which effortlessly blends from green to blue and has a totally beach-ready vibe, will be the first thing you want to pack for your next vacay (the brand says it was inspired by the sea, after all). The gold metal detailing and lace-up back give it an elevated feel, and you’ll love the not-too-tight—yet still flattering—fit.
9. Madewell Cutaway Cover-Up Dress
This versatile mini is perfect to wear poolside over your fave bright bikini. It’s made from a cotton fabric so heat won’t stay trapped underneath, and according to one reviewer, it wasn’t as see-through as they expected despite the open weaves, so you won’t be left feeling over-exposed.
10. The Drop Jayla Dress
Sometimes you need an outfit *quick* and, thanks to Amazon’s Prime shipping, you can have this one delivered to your door in record time. This striped style can be machine washed and hits right above the ankles. The halter neckline and tie-shoulder straps keep it in place, but it does fit on the snugger side, so size up if you need to.
11. Spell Iluka Dress
For a dress that will work just as well with a pair of stilettos for date night as it will with flip-flops at the beach, check out this organic cotton mini. In addition to its eco-friendly fabric, it's got a sexy open panel at the stomach for a bit of edge (and air), but it’s still totally bra-friendly since it has a tighter weave at the top.
12. Saylor Suzette Dress
Saylor is quickly making its way up my list of favorite brands for their high-quality construction, breathable fabrics and unique, flattering designs—and this dress is no exception. It’s made from a stretchy knit (though it is unlined so you’ll want to add something underneath) and the pop of color at the hem and braided tie-back strings make it totally stand out.
13. Cupshe Hollow Out Dress
If you prefer a dress that's not glued to your curves, this flowy maxi will pull over your head nicely. Customers say the viscose fabric appears to be good quality, and it shows just the right amount of skin. "Made me feel covered enough that I wasn't self-conscious about everything hanging out," writes one happy buyer. Most note that it does run big, however, with one shopper writing, "If you like something moderately oversized, stick with your usual size or one size down. Otherwise, size one to two sizes down for a more snug/body-hugging look."
14. Lulus Sunny Essence Dress
If you’re looking for just a pop of the trendy design, this mini from Lulus will do the trick. It has a floaty skirt that will keep you feeling cool and I adore the lace-up detail at the back for an added touch of style. It’s also lined and, according to the brand, runs true-to-size.
15. SNDYS Fate Dress
PureWow editors adore SNDYS and this dress feels like a definite must-have for the season. The adjustable ruched drawstring allows for a custom fit and I especially love the lightweight look and detailed knitting on the long sleeves. Not to mention, at just $65, it feels like a total steal.
16. French Connection Nellis Dress
For something a little more sophisticated you can feel confident wearing to a night of cocktails and bites with friends or out on a date, this striped French Connection beauty could be your best bet. It’s totally bra-friendly so you won’t need to work out any special layers and has a slightly fitted cut designed to show off your curves.
17. Bobeau Crochet Polo Dress
Tenniscore is taking over (largely thanks to Zendaya) and this sporty style melds the Challengers-inspired trend with the summery crochet trend perfectly. It has a relaxed fit that should feel non-restricting and has built-in lining. Just note this one’s made from acrylic, so it’ll be a little bit warmer—a great option for those chilly summer nights.
18. Pcunitly Crochet Cover Up
When you want to look your best both in and out of the water, there's this beach cover-up. Its semi-sheer design will keep you covered for a lunch break or while enjoying cocktails while still letting your bikini peak through. Reviewers recommend ordering a size up if you want it to fit loosely. Slits on either side, meanwhile, give it an even sexier look.
19. Z Supply Ibiza Dress
Shoppers love this cotton crochet dress *so much,* they’ve bought it in multiple colors, so you know it had to make my list of the best. Personally, I can’t keep my eyes off this bold pink hue with lace detailing at the neckline that adds a nice touch. Reviewers write that it’s figure-flattering and has a soft feel. All that considered, I’m planning on scooping it up ASAP, and you might want to do the same.
20. J.Crew Open-Back Midi Dress
This neutral midi from J.Crew has a small back cutout that will perfectly show off your tanned shoulders. It has a fitted silhouette, so you’ll want to opt to wear over a swimsuit or a tighter slip, but it also comes in a wide size range from XXS to 3X, so you can size up for a looser fit.
21. Nufiwi Cutout Dress
This crochet-style dress is a "cut" above the rest, thanks to the side cutouts that are designed to show off just the right amount of skin and give the illusion of an open back. It's lightweight and breathable, thanks to the mostly cotton fabric, and you can tighten or loosen it with the back tie.
What Is Crochet?
Crochet is a form of needlecraft that is believed to have started in Arabia or China before becoming popular in Europe in the 1700s. It involves using a special type of hook to create a delicate fabric from loops of yarn, and is different from knitting in that you use just one hook versus two. Items made using this technique tend to have less stretch. They're also characterized by durability, comfort and attractive patterns.
What Are the Best Materials for a Crochet Dress?
Before choosing a crochet dress, you'll want to look at the type of material it's made with. We've outlined a few of the most popular ones below and the benefits and downsides of each.
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