Hey there, crochet lovers! ☀️ Are you counting down the days until we can soak up that glorious summer sunshine? I know I am!

It’s the perfect summer weather for…. breathable crochet tops!

These are the ultimate summer wardrobe hack! You can make it your own, so it’s unique to your style. Crochet tops are also designed to let your skin breathe during scorching hot days.

Plus, there’s something so satisfying about saying “Oh, this? I made it myself!” when someone compliments your outfit!

Here are some absolutely gorgeous summer top patterns that will keep you looking fabulous while staying cool.

What You Might Need:

• Lightweight cotton or bamboo yarn (I recommend Cotton Kings or Drops Paris)
• Appropriate hook size for your yarn (usually 3.5mm-5mm for summer tops)
• Stitch markers
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Your favorite iced drink for crochet breaks!

The Beach Sunset Halter Top

You can create a crochet halter top with an open stitch pattern that creates the perfect balance between coverage and coolness. You can use an ombre yarn that transitions from deep orange to soft yellow, mimicking the sunset colors reflecting on the water.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Start with a foundation chain that comfortably fits around your bust (add about 2 inches for ease).
2. Work in an open V-stitch pattern for maximum breathability – (dc, ch 1, dc) in same stitch.
3. Create the halter shape by decreasing at the center front and increasing at the sides.
4. For the sunset effect, use color-changing yarn or seamlessly switch between 3-4 complementary colors.
5. Finish with simple ties at the neck and back for an adjustable fit that flatters everyone.
6. Add optional shell stitch edging for a feminine touch that mimics ocean waves.

The Farmer’s Market Crop Top

You can make a cropped crochet top with a textured stitch pattern. Use a sage green yarn to complement the earthy vibe of a weekend morning at the market.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Work this top from the bottom up, starting with a ribbed band for a secure fit.
2. Create visual interest with alternating rows of puff stitches and open mesh.
3. Shape the armholes with simple decreases – no complicated construction required!
4. Add subtle increases at the bust for a flattering silhouette that doesn’t cling.
5. Keep the length cropped just above your high-waisted shorts or skirt – perfect for showing just a hint of skin.
6. Finish with a simple scalloped edge that doesn’t curl up in the heat.

The Boho Festival Tank

You can create a mandala-inspired circular yoke to create a stunning focal point on your crochet top. Have some fringe details that sway every time you move and dance. Use a rich teal shade to match the vibes of the boho festival!

Step by step tutorial:

1. Begin with a circular yoke worked in the round, using fans and cluster stitches for a mandala effect.
2. Connect the yoke to a simple body worked in half double crochet for the perfect drape.
3. Create armholes with chain spaces rather than decreases for better airflow.
4. Add a subtle high-low hem by working additional rows at the back.
5. Incorporate fringe only at strategic points – too much can feel heavy in summer heat.
6. Thread thin metallic yarn through certain stitches for a subtle shimmer that catches festival lights.

The Seaside Mesh Tee

Create a crochet oversized mesh tee to layer over your bikini top. Choose a lightweight linen blend yarn in crisp white. The loose construction will make you stay cook even in midday heat.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Use a larger hook than your yarn calls for to create an airy, open fabric.
2. Work in a simple filet mesh pattern – (dc, ch 1, skip 1) – for maximum breathability.
3. Create a relaxed drop-shoulder construction to avoid tight spots under the arms.
4. Add subtle texture with sections of solid dc stitches creating horizontal stripes.
5. Keep edges unfinished and slightly asymmetrical for that casual, effortless beach vibe.
6. Make it versatile by sizing up – wear it over a bikini or layer over a tank top for evening.

The Summer Garden Peplum

Create a fitted crochet peplum top that showcases delicate floral motifs to echo the blooms in your backyard. Use a soft pink cotton yarn and create a slight peplum flare at the waist to create some movement with every step.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Start with a foundation of flower motifs connected as you go for the bodice.
2. Create waist shaping with decreases worked into the pattern repeats.
3. For the peplum, increase dramatically in one round, then work even for a gentle flare.
4. Add short sleeves with flower motif caps for a touch of elegance that still beats the heat.
5. Include a button closure at the back with delicate shell-stitch edging.
6. Finish with blocked pins to ensure the flowers maintain their shape and definition.

The Vacation-Ready V-Neck

Create a lightweight V-neck crochet top in soft coral. Make it a slightly oversized fit to allow for easy movement. Create a textured stitch pattern to add your style into the top.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Work from the top down, starting with a foundation chain across the shoulders.
2. Create a flattering V-neck with strategically placed increases as you work downward.
3. Use a textured moss stitch pattern that looks intricate but allows airflow.
4. Add subtle shaping at the waist with decreases that don’t compromise the relaxed fit.
5. Finish sleeves with a simple picot edging that won’t dig into your arms.
6. Block gently to enhance the drape without sacrificing the natural texture of the stitch pattern.

The Poolside Bralette

Create a crochet bralette top that provides just enough support while showcasing intricate lacework. Consider a vibrant turquoise cotton-blend yarn that dries quickly.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Start with two triangle cups worked in a shell stitch pattern for subtle shaping.
2. Connect cups with a chain bridge, adjustable to your exact measurements.
3. Create a supportive band using post stitches for extra structure without adding bulk.
4. Add adjustable ties at both neck and back for a custom fit that stays secure.
5. Incorporate optional lining using simple slip stitches to attach lightweight fabric.
6. Finish with tiny bead details that catch the light like droplets of water.

The Sunset Cocktail Off-Shoulder Top

Create an off-shoulder crochet top that makes a statement with its elegant drape and subtle sparkle. Use a cotton-silk blend in deep raspberry to catch golden hour light perfectly. Creating a loose neckline showcases your sun-kissed shoulders.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Create an elastic channel at the top using double crochet stitches worked around elastic thread.
2. Work downward in a diamond mesh pattern that provides structure while maintaining flexibility.
3. Add subtle waist shaping with strategically placed decrease rounds.
4. Create bell sleeves that start snug at the upper arm and gracefully flare out.
5. Incorporate metallic thread carried alongside your main yarn for evening shimmer.
6. Finish with a slightly cropped length that sits perfectly at your high-waisted pants or skirt.

The Brunch Date Button-Up

Choose a buttoned crochet cardigan top in pale yellow to bring a touch of handmade charm to your outfit. The lightweight construction makes it perfect for variable temperatures – button it up as a top or layer it over a simple cami.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Work two front panels and one back panel separately, joining at the shoulders.
2. Use a combination of solid stitches and eyelet rows for texture without weight.
3. Create a simple button band by working extra rows of single crochet along front edges.
4. Add cap sleeves with shell edging for a feminine touch that doesn’t overheat.
5. Incorporate invisible decreases for subtle waist shaping that maintains the stitch pattern.
6. Choose shell-shaped buttons that complement your summer aesthetic.

The Tropical Getaway Tank

Crochet a tank top in bright coral yarn, creating an open back design to keep you cool in the humid summer air. Maybe add tiny pineapple stitch details add a whimsical touch that’s perfect for vacation vibes.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Start with a simple rectangle for the front, worked in alternating rows of solid and mesh stitches.
2. Create an intricate open back using crossed double crochet stitches for ventilation and style.
3. Join the sides using decorative slip stitch seams that become part of the design.
4. Add thin straps with pineapple stitch detailing – cute and functional!
5. Incorporate subtle high-low hemline by adding a few extra rows at the back.
6. Finish edges with a reverse single crochet for a polished look that doesn’t curl.

The Picnic in the Park Tee

Create an oversized crochet tee in soft lavender that provides just enough coverage from the occasional cloud passing over the sun while lounging at park. Use a combination of solid and open stitches to create a gingham-inspired pattern that perfectly matches your picnic aesthetic.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Work from side to side rather than bottom up for an interesting construction and drape.
2. Create a gingham effect by alternating blocks of solid double crochet with open V-stitches.
3. Add dropped shoulders and wide sleeves for maximum airflow and comfort.
4. Incorporate a subtle high-low hem by working decreases along the bottom edge.
5. Finish neckline with a simple edging that lays flat without additional blocking.
6. Add tiny daisy motifs at random points for a playful touch that enhances the picnic vibe.

The Sunset Yoga Session Top

Create a fitted crochet racer-back top that moves with you through every pose, its stretchy stitch pattern providing support without restriction. Pick a gradient yarn that shifts from deep purple to soft pink, mirroring the sunset colors filling the sky as you find your zen.

Step by step tutorial:

1. Use a foundation of linked double crochet for a stretchy base with great recovery.
2. Work in the round from bottom up, shaping the waist with subtle decreases.
3. Create the racer-back by working two separate sections that join at the center back.
4. Add a supportive band under the bust using post stitches for structure.
5. Incorporate mesh sections strategically for ventilation during your workout.
6. Finish with elastic thread crocheted into the armholes and neckline for a secure fit that doesn’t shift during movement.

Let Your Creativity Shine This Summer!

Crochet tops can be very versatile for summer wear. The best part is that you can customize your top for your own body shape and type, and style.

Stay cool, stay creative, and happy crocheting!