On stage, Taylor Swift is known for her dazzlingly glitzy costumes that correspond with the different eras of her discography, but she’s also recently proven that her off-stage style is just as headline-worthy. Last week, while out in London with boyfriend Travis Kelce, the singer cosigned one of this summer’s biggest trends: crochet dresses.
After her June 23 Eras Tour performance, Swift headed to celeb hotspot Chiltern Firehouse wearing a surprisingly affordable crochet mini dress from Australian brand Vrg Grl. She paired the long-sleeve shift dress with platform Gucci slides—in the color of the season, butter yellow, no less. To say that the internet was instantly obsessed with Swift’s ‘60s-inspired look is an understatement. On TikTok, crafty fans are even going so far as to crochet their own versions of the now-sold out Vrg Grl dress.
It’s easy to understand why crochet dresses like Swift’s are having such a moment. Not only does the retro trend give off beachy, boho vibes, but the open weave is also perfect for staying cool on hot summer days. Since Swift’s exact dress is out of stock, I took the liberty of finding similar crochet mini dresses to shop, starting at just $34.
Urban Outfitters Lydia Semi-Sheer Crochet Mini Dress
As the proud new owner of a crochet mini dress, I was excited to see the trend being embraced by a huge star like Swift. I bought this sheer green Urban Outfitters dress in early June to wear to the Governor’s Ball Music Festival in New York, knowing I would also use it throughout the summer as a swimsuit cover-up. For the festival, I layered it over a white bikini, then styled it with my Puma Palermos, orange-tinted aviator sunglasses, and a slicked back bun. I completed the look with a vintage leopard print shoulder bag to add an unexpected pattern into the mix.
The sheerness of the dress was a bit out of my comfort zone, but my mind was quickly put to ease by the enthusiastic compliments I received from other festival goers. Though this dress is definitely on the shorter side (and at 5’7, I’m relatively tall), it’s perfect for the beach or an outdoor concert like the one I attended. Next, I’m planning to pair it with cowboy boots and gold jewelry to lean into the boho aesthetic.
Fabumily Crochet Knit Mini Dress
For a multi-colored option like the viral Vrg Grl dress, this knit mini from Amazon comes in tons of different striped and color-blocked variations. (I’m partial to the bright pink, blue, and orange colorway for summer.) With a slightly fitted silhouette, this curve-hugging dress is super flattering—not to mention that at $35, it’s practically a steal.
One of the great things about the crochet dress is its versatility. It can be dressed up with heels, as Swift demonstrated, or it can be the ultimate casual, comfy layering piece for summer. And don’t worry—if you’re not comfortable with the nearly-naked look, you can always swap your swimsuit or underwear for a slip.
Madewell Crochet Cutaway Cover-Up Dress
Another example of the versatility of the crochet dress is that it looks great in a wide variety of colors and patterns. If you’re more into neutrals, for example, this white Madewell tank might be the dress for you. Made from 100% cotton, this airy cover-up pairs best with sandy beach towels, lobster rolls, and a water-damaged paperback. Plus, it’s just $30 right now with the code COOLDOWN at checkout.
Still not sold on the crochet trend? Keep scrolling for a few more editor-approved picks.
More to Come Rosaria Mini Dress
Anrabess Crochet Swim Cover Up
Mango Open Stitch Belted Flare Long Sleeve Mini Dress