“The late 1960’s are never entirely out of fashion, they just need a fresh angle to make them de jour.” – Bob Stanley
While bohemian fashion did in fact originate prior to the 1960’s (it originally was used in lieu of “gypsy”, indicating an unfashionable style of clothing worn by poverty-stricken artists after the French Revolution in 1799), it was the 1960’s that made this a lasting style.
Many styles have branched off of the original bohemian look, including “boho-chic”, “hippie”, and “hipster”. A mainstay in all of these styles, however, is crochet – whether it’s used as an accent or focal point. If you’re a boho-look lover, there are plenty of ways to add it to your wardrobe and your home.
You might want to start small, such as adding crochet edging to your shirts, shorts, or bag. You could step up to something bigger like chunky jewelry, a wall-hanging, a bag, or a vest. Or you could take it further and crochet a dress, tunic, shawl or skirt.
Too many choices? Not sure where to begin? Below are three boho-styled projects to choose from:
#1: Broomstick Lace Crochet Bracelet
You’ll need a fine yarn (bamboo cotton suggested), a small crochet hook (G) and a large crochet hook (P), as well as scissors and three buttons. While the broomstick stitch may take a try or two to get right, it’s simple enough that it won’t take long to learn. The finished result is an elegant, bohemian cuff.
#2: Boho Tassel Crochet Bag
For this project you’ll need worsted weight cotton yarn, a crochet hook (I), a purse handle or old belt, and unbleached muslin for the inside of the bag, along with scissors and sewing supplies. You’ll also need to know the Half Treble Crochet stitch (htrc) and the magic loop, along with basic stitches. You’ll be adding fringe accents as well. The completed bag looks effortlessly chic and ready for summer.
#3: Pineapple Top
If you’re a little more ambitious, you might want to try making this beautiful, breezy tank top with pineapple motif. You’ll need to use size 10 cotton crochet thread, plus two different crochet hooks (D & F). Luckily, there aren’t any fancy stitches to learn – just single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), and treble crochet (tc).
If you’d like to try the Broomstick Lace Cuff, Ink Flamingoes has a photo tutorial on their site. If the Boho Tassel Crochet Bag is more your speed, Persia Lou has a free pattern with photos for your convenience. The Pineapple Top and instructions for making it can be found at Impromptu Crochet.
You can also find bohemian inspiration and free crochet patterns at either Pinterest or Ravelry.