The nostalgic crochet top is our unexpected hero for transitional dressing – here are the best now from £22.99

As the seasons flirt between warm days and cooler evenings, we’re backing crochet tops – yes, inspired by the iconic colourful ‘Granny’ square, as our new transitional hero.

Why? Crochet is more than a nostalgic nod to the past, its most colourful iteration, inspired by knitted crochet blankets, has entered the style mainstream. As any craft-loving knitting enthusiast would know, there are many different crochet stitches, techniques and styles – from basket weave to popcorn – but we’re coveting the Granny Square because it’s colourful, playful graphic and, above all, nostalgic.

It’s more than a fabric; there’s charm stitched into every square and something comfortingly familiar about its crafted nature, made with time and love. The name ‘granny square’ is thought to stem from the practice of grandmothers creating these squares, often from leftover yarn, to make blankets and other household items.

Today, each piece feels like a wearable piece of art and craft. In a fashion sense, they’re a celebration of Artesian handy work, and have a history deeply rooted in tradition and resourcefulness.

Lightweight yet textured, a granny square-inspired crochet top is a layer that adds instant interest without overheating or weighing you down and the intricate open stitch work elevates even the simplest outfits.

Our edit includes crochet top styles to suit all, from sleeveless knit vests, a multi-coloured sweater from Desigual (now 50% off in the summer sale) and a sweet, collared shirt style from Next that offers a relaxed, easy-to-throw-on fit. Reiss is also offering a 100% cotton crochet shirt in rustic brown tones that will double up as a cropped cover-up if worn unbuttoned. We’ve also thrown a rainbow-coloured crochet skirt into the mix for the quickest way to update your everyday white T-shirt.

The styling charm is in the contrast. Pairing handmade textures with modern denim silhouettes will allow you to dip your toe into the new season while retaining a little nostalgic joy. Try wearing your chic crochet top with barrel leg jeans or high-waisted khaki cargos and suede boots, if Isabel Marant is more your vibe. Otherwise, a cord necklace will add another boho layer to your look.

Note: if the crochet you choose has a wider knit and showcases your underwear, simply layer over a vest that compliments colours within the knit or your skin tone.

Finally, these pieces are fun to layer over a T-shirt and under a light jacket or blazer if you want to hang on to a little piece of summer for longer. Well, don’t we all…