The origins of crochet are a bit of a mystery, attributed variously to nuns in 1500 BC who used their fingers instead of hooks; as adornments for the puberty rites of primitive South American tribes; or, perhaps, an ancient form of needlework that was developed in one of the following locations: Turkey, India, Persia, North Africa, or China.  Regardless of whence it came, by the 18th century, the technique had spread to Europe, where it was referred to as tambouring; the hooks used were as teensy as sewing needles, indicating amazingly fine threads. A certain enterprising mademoiselle Riego de la Branchardiere – who claimed to have invented a technique of lace-like crochet known today as Irish Crochet – was the first to publish crochet patterns that could be copied at home.

Crochet has an undeniably earthy & unpretentious charm, as seen on the Dolce & Gabbana runway; it’s also a fun way to freshen up your wardrobe as the weather warms up.  Here are a few of our crocheted faves:

Eugenia Kim “Cate” snood

Bossett macrame-covered sunglasses

Dolce & Gabbana “Miss Sicily” bag (as seen on the arms of Madonna, Eva Mendes, and Victoria Beckham)

Tapeet crochet T-strap sandals

Diane von Furstenberg “Solar” macrame dress

- Lesley Scott

(Dolce & Gabbana Spring/Summer 2010 runway shots via style.com)

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