Modern Ways to Wear Crochet Tops at 40, 50 & 60+
Crochet is back, and it’s way more stylish than I remember! Now, I know what you might be thinking. Didn’t we already wear this once?
For me, and maybe you, it brings back memories of fringe vests and ponchos from the 1970s. (Mine was bright yellow, made by my grandma, and boy, did it make me feel cool!) For others, maybe it’s those Y2K crochet tanks and shrugs we wore in our 20s. Either way, it’s not the first time we’ve seen this trend. If you’re wondering whether it’s still wearable now, the answer is yes.
See how fine this crochet is! Not your old lady, chunky, 70’s crochet!
crochet cardigan | white jeans | bag | sandals
From what I’ve seen lately, crochet is softer, sleeker, and so much more wearable at our age. Designers have taken that breezy, boho vibe we loved and given it a modern twist—cleaner lines, better fabrics, and silhouettes that actually flatter. And when styled right, it can look effortlessly chic, polished, and even a little sexy.
So if you’ve been eyeing a crochet top but wondering if you can still pull it off in your 40s, 50s, or 60s, the answer is yes, no problem! Let me show you how to wear it in a way that feels fresh, not old hippie, and 100% age-amazing.
A fitted polo silhouette, soft fabric, and open-knit (mesh-like) stitching make crochet modern.
crochet polo shirt| white jeans
What’s Changed: From Hippie Throwback to Everyday Chic
Crochet used to mean oversized, fringe-covered, and slightly itchy. You wore it to music festivals or beach bonfires, not brunch with your girlfriends. But designers have completely reimagined it for today. Instead of heavy, homespun knits, we’re seeing breezy, open-stitch tops in gorgeous neutrals, soft cottons, and flattering cuts. Open stitch is simply a more modern mesh-like type of crochet.
Think sleek tanks, boxy short-sleeve tops, polished tunics—pieces that work just as well with white jeans and gold jewelry as they do with breezy linen pants and flat sandals.
And the best part? Crochet adds texture and interest to even the simplest outfit. If you’re like me and prefer classic, more minimalistic pieces, crochet is a great way to elevate your basics without adding bulk or fuss.
So yes, crochet is back. But it’s grown up just like we have, and it’s a great way to add a little lift to your wardrobe this summer.
Modern Crochet Tops That Flatter Women Over 40
If crochet makes you think of bulky knits and shapeless fits, that’s the past. Today’s styles are much more flattering and thoughtfully designed.
What works best at our age? Clean, modern silhouettes. Think:
- Boxy tanks that skim the body without clinging
- Slightly cropped cardigans that hit at the waist
- Polished tunics with structured sleeves or subtle side slits
- Delicate short-sleeve tops with a refined neckline
The key is shape. You want something that adds a little texture and style without swallowing you up or hiding your shape. Skip anything that looks too oversized, patchwork-y, or stiff. The newer crochet pieces are often lined or come in tighter, more refined weaves, so they feel more like a chic knit top than a craft project.
And don’t be afraid to show a little skin! A peek of shoulder or a subtle open stitch at the neckline can be very flattering. It’s all about balance. Crochet can be soft and feminine without looking sweet or cutesy.
Crochet top with built-in camisole
What to Wear Under a Crochet Top (Without Feeling Overexposed)
One of the biggest questions I get about crochet is, “But what do I wear underneath it?” I hear you! No one wants to feel like they’re baring it all just to wear a pretty top.
The good news? You have lots of chic, confidence-boosting options that’ll keep you feeling covered, without taking away from the beauty of the crochet.
- Nude or white camisoles – Simple, seamless camis in your skin tone or matching the color of the top work beautifully.
- Fitted tanks – A sleek tank with a high neckline adds polish and structure.
- Bodysuits – Ideal for a smooth silhouette under more fitted styles.
- Slip-style linings – Perfect for dresses or tunics with open stitches.
Pro tip: Stick to solid layers in neutral tones, and opt for smoothing, full-coverage bras underneath.
More here about what to wear under Open Sweaters.
Pair linen pants with a crochet top – a cool combo!
crochet tank | white linen pants | bag
The Best Bottoms to Wear With Crochet Tops
Crochet tops already add texture and visual interest, so when it comes to bottoms, think clean and simple. You want pieces that balance out the look without competing for attention.
- Linen Pants: For a relaxed, effortless vibe.
- Crisp White Jeans: A perfect match for a cropped crochet top.
- High-Waisted Shorts: More tailored and flattering with a looser top.
- Midi or Maxi Skirts: Feminine, breezy, and great for warm days.
- Classic Blue Jeans: Keep the proportion in mind for balance.
If you buy one crochet top, make it black and white, because that’s what’s trending! It’s one of the best sellers for June!
crochet top | black jeans | black bag | sandals | earrings
How to Dress Crochet Up or Down (So It Works for Any Occasion)
Crochet is surprisingly versatile. Here are 4 modern ways to wear crochet tops.
Casual Daytime Look
- Black and white crochet top
- Black jeans or linen pants
- Flat black sandals or espadrilles
- Black bag, gold earrings
Who says you can’t wear shorts after 40? These are fab with this crochet tank that hides a midlife middle!
cream and tan crochet tank | shorts | belt | slides
Beach or Poolside Look with Shorts
- Tan and Cream crochet sleeveless top
- cargo Shorts
- belt
- Neutral slides
Have you noticed all the matched crochet sets? They feel modern.
Weekend Brunch or Day Date
- Midi skirt or high-waisted trousers
- crochet tank
- chunky flat sandals
Evening Out
- Dark or white pants
- Lacy crochet top
- Silky tank or bodysuit underneath
- Statement earrings and strappy heels
More Crochet Tops
How to Make Crochet Feel Modern and Flattering
Let’s be honest—some crochet out there still looks like it belongs at a music festival. Bright colors, busy patchwork, fringe everywhere… fun if you’re 22 at Coachella, but not exactly what most of us want to wear at 50.
That said, crochet can absolutely look grown-up, chic, and sophisticated. It’s all about how you style it.
1. Stick to a Sleek Color Palette
Black and white crochet is everywhere right now—and it’s such a smart choice. It instantly feels more polished and elevated than rainbow brights or multicolored patchwork. Neutrals like cream, tan, navy, and olive also work beautifully.
If you love color, go for one bold hue in a clean silhouette. A cherry red or cobalt blue crochet top can look stunning—just pair it with neutral pieces to keep things balanced.
Such a modern shape and color. Do you like this soft, minty green?
mint green patchwork crochet top
2. Choose Clean, Modern Shapes
Skip the oversized, shapeless styles. Look for crochet tops that have a bit of structure, such as softly tailored sleeves, flattering necklines, or a slightly cropped design that hits at the waist. Tunics with side slits or slightly boxy tees are also very wearable.
3. Don’t Overdo the Boho
Crochet has that relaxed, breezy feel built in—you don’t need to pile on fringe bags, tie-dye, or gladiator sandals. Instead, try pairing your crochet piece with something crisp and minimalist, such as tailored pants or sleek denim. That contrast keeps the look fresh.
A hint of crochet on a crochet top or dress is all you need to get in on the trend.
crochet dress | heels | crochet bag | gold earrings | sunglasses
4. Embrace Subtle Details
If you’re not ready for a full crochet top, start small. Look for pieces with just a hint of crochet—maybe on the sleeves, across the shoulders, or at the hem. That goes for crochet dresses, too! I’ve been wearing a black-and-white sundress lately that has the prettiest little crochet detail at the neckline, and it’s just enough to give it that artisan feel without going full boho.
Crochet Questions Women 40+ Are Really Asking.
Q. Can I still wear a crochet top in my 50s or 60s?
Absolutely. It’s not about age—it’s about how you wear it. Select modern shapes, refined colors, and high-quality fabrics that suit your style.
Q. Are crochet tops flattering on a fuller figure?
Yes—just avoid overly open weaves and clingy cuts. Look for pieces that skim your shape and layer them with a tank or bodysuit for comfort and confidence.
“What’s the best way to wear crochet without feeling too exposed?
Layer! A nude cami, white tank, or lined piece makes all the difference. You don’t need to show skin to enjoy the look.
Q. Are crochet tops still in style?
Very much so. The trend is going strong, but in a much more refined way than in the past. Think elegant, not eccentric.
Q. Can I wear crochet to dinner or somewhere dressy?
Yes! Pair a black or cream crochet top with white jeans, a silky tank, and bold earrings—you’ve got an effortless evening look that’s stylish and age-amazing.
Do I, Deb?
Crochet can feel a little throwback, but yes, you can totally wear it, without looking outdated. Simply choose a top in a modern shape and color to add texture and personality to your look. Whether you’re wearing a sleek black top or just a little crochet detail on a sundress, it’s all about keeping it simple, modern, and totally you!
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Hi Deborah, I never liked crochet from way back, but the crochet today is different. I don’t have a drop of boho in me, my style is feminine and classic. But because I have found a few modern crochet pieces I like, ones similar to what you featured, I decided to add them into my wardrobe. :)
Hi Carolyn, You sound like me. I’m really not a boho girl but I must say some of these new pieces especially the open knit tops feel much more modern for my liking. Even the classic crochet patterns in newer, sleeker silhouettes suddenly seem interesting. Crochet has gone from hippie to haute! Thanks for dropping by! Cheers, Deb