I got cozy with It Girl Crochet by Sharon Zientara recently.
From the introduction:
The concept of the “it girl,” a woman who possesses a certain quality that attracts others, was popularized in the 1920’s by Clara Bow, star of the film It, but like fashion and crochet it transcends time.
Zientara has collected a variety of crochet accessory patterns meant to epitomize this idea, and she groups them into three sections based on fashion eras:
“Crochet Nouveau,” “It’s a Mod, Mod World,” and “A Brave New Boho.” I find that I am most attracted to the Bohemian-inspired projects, although there are plenty of nice designs in the other sections, including a really nifty Mod purse and some lovely shawls.
The book jumps right into the projects without a how-to-crochet chapter, although there is a glossary of stitches and diagrams in the back of the book if you need a refresher. As I become a more experienced crocheter, I find I appreciate books like these that get right to the good stuff.
The Gypsy Slouch hat up there? It has the potential to put an end to my annual January hat woes next winter. But I’d probably do it without the beads.
I never (never!) wear belts but the Haute Hippie belt really grabs me. I may use the technique on something else. Maybe a headband?
And I really like that lacey top, but I’d probably make it longer and wear it over a camisole.
As you can see, now that I have a handle on basic crochet skills, I tend to look at patterns more as a jumping-off point than a strict set of rules. Many of the projects in this book would lend themselves beautifully to experimentation, I think.
You can get your own copy of It Girl Crochet at your local book store, at Amazon, or directly from the Interweave Store.
(The usual disclaimers apply re: books received, reviews given, and links provided.)
I agree about the slouchy hat. It would be adorable sans the beads. I’m kind of drawn to those socks in the 3rd photo. I can totally see them longer (up to the knee maybe?) with a skater dress and some riding boots in fall, showing just a couple of inches at the top of the boots.
Yes, I like them too! I hadn’t thought about making them longer, but that could be neat 🙂
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the slouchy hat is so cool. In winter I am in school, so those little easy quick projects, like hats, always grab my attention. I have been trying to work down my yarn stash, so it all works out.