Summer Trend: Craft Fashion
Art by Anya Ernst
Maybe it was the need for something to do during quarantine that triggered a spike in jewelry making, crocheting, and needlepoint over the past year, but regardless, handmade art has made its way into the fashion world.
Art and culture have always influenced fashion, as seen in more obvious ways with fine artists like Jeff Koons having their work printed on designer handbags and accessories, or in less obvious ways like Pop art’s critique of consumerism and its effect on the colors and silhouettes of 1960s American fashion.
Today, arts and crafts have made their influence known in the fashion world- and also happen to be a great addition to the perfect summer wardrobe. Knitwear like crochet tops and hats or quilted skirts is a stylish way to implement the cozy feel of “grandma-chic” into your wardrobe.
Brands like Heaven by Marc Jacobs or Farfetch are incorporating high fashion shapes and quality into modern statement pieces that are definitely worth the investment. Despite being colorful and “out there”, items like these are timeless and can be styled in a myriad of ways for years to come.
Even better, supporting small creators on Etsy or Depop is a far more affordable way to get in on the trend. This way you get to support someone’s dream and look super cute doing it. Crochet beanies and chunky beaded necklaces are accessories that are best bought hand-made, versus paying $60 or more from designer brands. And the best part? Many sellers will do customs so you can get the exact colors and styles you want.
A lot of the trends we are seeing this spring and summer come from the 1970s, so looking at your local vintage shop or Goodwill bins is another affordable option to find unique collectibles.
And as we are in a renaissance of 90s fashion currently, it was bound to happen that screen-printed tops make a comeback sooner or later. As seen in the fall with Jean-Paul Gautier mesh abstract tops, incorporating vintage logos and designs onto basics can take an outfit from simple to expertly curated. Not only are these pieces easy to find at thrift and consignment stores, but they also are a super simple DIY. Reminisce on your days at a summer camp with a tie-dye kit you can get at your local craft store or even make your own starter screen print with an embroidery hoop and Nylons (or check out Emma Chamberlain’s latest video on her own customized shirt DIY).
The craft aesthetic has finally been embraced by the high-end fashion and art world- and now is your opportunity to obtain exclusivity without breaking the bank.
Special Thanks to @rag.report on Tik Tok
